For department generated applications, scheduling fixes and performing tests should be based on the criticality of specific processes and applications. Date-sensitive processes and applications essential to the research, academic or administrative functions of the department should be addressed first. In expansion, all date fields are redefined to contain four digits for the year and any affected coding is modified accordingly. Windowing In windowing, only the coding is changed. The size of date fields in databases, etc., is not changed.
Different vendors can use either solution.
Be sure you know what their particular software solution is and what effect it may have on your application. Wherever applications share data or interface to other systems, it is important to know what solution has been chosen for Year 2000 compliance. It is essential to take backups of data and programs prior to any conversions or testing. These backups may be needed if you encounter problems with your conversion efforts and need to back out your Year 2000 changes.