Background The Year 2000, as it is relevant to information technology, is the absence of a two-digit Century value within the date field of almost all application programs, system software and data files that distinguish dates as either 19xx or 20xx. The problem's origin is attributed to limitations of earlier technology and the historically higher costs of storing information. The advent of the Year 2000 poses one of the most significant challenges ever faced by the business industry and its professionals. The Year 2000 problem will have an enormous impact on application programs, system software and data files throughout business and government. Embedded systems can also have a negative impact on agency activities if they are not Year 2000 compliant.
Embedded systems can be difficult to test and modify.
Agencies may not be able to identify embedded system problems until testing has begun. Though computers may be the cause of the Year 2000 problem, every aspect of the business operations will be at risk of suffering Year 2000 failure if appropriate precautions are not taken. The Ohio Year 2000 Competency Center was formed in January 1997. The mission of the Ohio Year 2000 Competency Center is to lead, support and facilitate achievement of Year 2000 compliance throughout state government to ensure uninterrupted service to Ohio citizens. Define the size of the Year 2000 problem and determine how Year 2000 will affect your agency or organization.