Michael Dell: 'Normal isn't going to happen soon'

Michael Dell has said warned that businesses will need "a longer-term view of the new normal" as the coronavirus pandemic continues to sweep across the globe.

In an open letter to employees, the CEO admitted he's been "grounded" for nearly five months, "riding out the pandemic and waiting for everything to get back to normal".

He referred to the fight against the virus as a marathon, explaining that some Dell sites are now starting to reopen, while others will remain shut.

The company he founded is now reshaping itself to meet changing customer demand, he added.

"Back in March we made a quick pivot and kept our business running, delivering essential services and solutions for our customers," he said.

"Now we're reorienting our business toward new customer priorities, aligning with our customers' needs to continue to do it fast and to also to do it right for the long-term transformation of their businesses. Our work and family situations also need to be secure and sustainable."

He said the Dell will continue to allow employees to work remote if needed, adding that, in many cases, productivity has gone up for many since the transition.

"COVID-19 has made one thing clear - work is something you do, an outcome, not a place or a time," he said.

"We want you to have the flexibility to weather this storm safely and productively, however long it lasts."