It was clear from the very start of his public service, he said, that the need was for someone to define the problem of Y2K and be a clearinghouse of information without wielding a big stick. That strategy stuck after the initial work within the federal government evolved to include outreach to the private sector and to other countries. Ultimately it was at Koskinen's urging that the United Nations set up a coordinating center late last year in Washington that now links 160 national programs. Every two weeks for the last year, he has had a conference call with Y2K activists to hear their concerns and share his own. He said he strongly believes the straightforward communication will pay off.
People have a lot of common sense.
If we can get them information, they'll respond appropriately.