The problem stems from the use of two-digit year fields instead of four digit year fields in software, hardware, and firmware. The resulting inaccuracies in date-related calculations will generate corrupt data results and potentially cause computer systems to fail entirely. Also, if erroneous information goes unrecognized, the problem is perpetuated through interfaces with other automated information systems. The FTA uses computers to support business functions such as financial management, personnel management, contract management, logistics management, and grants management.
Computers also perform or support the performance of our strategic operations.
It is our automated information systems that have legacy databases and rely heavily on dates and date-related calculations that will consume the majority of our resources and efforts to fix. In view of the magnitude and seriousness of the problem, the FTA must assure that its systems supporting operational missions and decision-making functions continue to perform as designed. If you have any questions, please contact FTA's Office of Information Resources Management .