What the Dell?

Since Dell has been doing business in China, they have had a bundle of complaints. For example, instead of receiving an Intel Core Duo T2300 processor at their front door step as they were expecting many Chinese actually got a T2300E, which lacks ``virtualization technology,'' a feature that allows the computer to run more than one operating system at a time. When they call Dell up and complain, Dell's response is "There is no difference in performance between the two processors, and the virtualization technology is a feature that's oriented toward server computers." Dell acknowledge that they made one "Dell" of an" error'' in not telling customers about the switch ahead of time. (wait a minute, Dell was planning this switch, but they didn't tell the customers?? JERKS!) The computer maker has sent notes to its Chinese customers explaining its position on the matter but hasn't offered any compensation, and why would they, they probably charged more money, and are trying to get away with pulling the rug under the Chineses' feet, so they can make up for the recent drop in stocks.

The next part of the article really interested me.

"Chalk one up for the power of the Chinese Internet. While criticizing the government online is still taboo, there are few constraints on airing grievances about corporate behavior. In thousands of Internet forums, the mainland's millions freely point out poor customer service, misleading ad campaigns, shoddy safety standards, and much more. Americans ``think the Internet in China is controlled and censored,'' says Sam Flemming, chief executive of CIC Data, a Shanghai research firm that tracks Chinese online forums and blogs. But when it comes to commenting on business, ``Chinese people are vocal and active.'' "

I think I have become one of those Americans that has stereotyped the Chinese Internet usage. Like everyone I knew that criticizing the government in a blog or e-mail was taboo, but I didn't realize that such complaints or grievances were allowed for corporations or other businesses. Now that I think about it, why wouldn't they be allowed to? Why haven't I heard of this before? Am I out of the loop or something?