Managing a year 2000 programme

The year 2000 computing problem is the greatest crisis to hit the IT industry since its conception. The inability of most computers to correctly calculate the year 2000 as a result of two-digit date programming has massive implications for global businesses. The management of such a programme is consequently a daunting undertaking for many companies, and it is important to understand that it is not just a technical task. Rather it is a massive logistics exercise, with a company´s whole business at risk. Computing underwrites many business processes, which all need to be examined, and many firms utilise products which contain embedded systems, such as FAX machines, security doors, laboratory equipment and automated production lines-all of these can contain day, date and year logic which can lead to year 2000 failure. This means that the programme must be given the right priority within the company. As if the computing crisis were not enough, year 2000 has also a business and social focus. It is a target date for all sorts of initiatives, such that there are already competing priorities without having the computing problem as well. Year 2000 has almost a magical significance-it has become a convenient goal for setting the completion of various projects. Organisations, if not careful, could be on a collision course of projects and initiatives towards 2000. The author discusses scoping the programme, management roles, and programme implementation