To some extent, Y2K has helped us improve all of these-with the exception, perhaps, of our education system. Year 2000 projects forced IT shops to inventory their information assets, in many cases for the first time. Having such an inventory can lead to simplification. For example, Y2K provided the opportunity for the Student Loan Marketing Association, better known as Sallie Mae, to clean up its software inventory. The organization saved money on licenses and maintenance, as well as precious labor.
Centralized control means common standards, tools, and certifications.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of Y2K program director Irene Dec, Prudential Insurance Co. of America was one of the first companies to see the need for centralized control of its Y2K efforts. And Y2K was the first centrally controlled project in the history of that diversified financial-services company.