At SXSW 2024, Michael Dell Speaks on Life, Business, AI, and Austin

Austin Native Optimistic About the Future Role of Tech

Founder of the Round Rock-based Dell Technologies, Michael Dell, took to the stage at this year’s South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, shedding light on his views of technology and business. Recognizing himself as a technology optimist, Dell has had a front-row experience of how technology continues to evolve ever since he founded his company 40 years ago.

“It’s all just a preview for what’s to come,” Dell insightfully noted during the week-long event. He continued to express his excitement, anticipating the future role that technology will play globally, especially highlighting the innovative breakthroughs we are beginning to witness in healthcare driven by technology.

Dell Shares His Take on AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Dell expressed his amazement at the rapid innovation pace and the growing role of technology in “enabling human potential”. He has immense optimism for Artificial Intelligence (AI). Yet he acknowledges the challenges regulators will face, given the speed at which the technology is evolving. “AI development must be done in a thoughtful way and reflect our humanity, and I believe it’s going to be enormous,” he confidently stated.

The Art of Taking Risks in Entrepreneurship

Being synonymous with tech innovation and business risk-taking in Austin, Texas, Dell vividly narrated how his early days impacted his vision on entrepreneurship. He stressed the importance of team development and learning from failure as vital elements of business success. “Nobody has the right answer,” Dell expressed, “You’ve got to go figure it out.”

Dell on Austin: A Hub for Business Growth

Michael Dell, who has closely watched Central Texas grow over the decades, believes the region has an ideal blend of innovative businesses and universities cultivating businesses of all sizes. He highlighted the region’s development and mobility as significant factors boosting its potential for future growth. “I’m bullish on Austin and Texas,” he asserted.

The Impact of Universities on Business

In his talk, Dell emphasized the significant role the University of Texas (UT) plays in fostering Austin’s innovation scene. He acknowledged the resources higher education institutions bring and stated, “The importance of the University of Texas and other universities in Texas really can’t be overstated.”

Words of Wisdom to the Next Generation

Concluding his talk, Dell offered some insightful advice to the youngest member of the audience, a 9-year-old. “Learn as much as you can. Dream big. Prepare yourself for the future,” were his encouraging words. He added, “Find something you’re interested in and curious about exploring, and hopefully parents will let you do it.”