reposition its businesses into consumer's minds as destination stores. This is an example of just one project. The Limited runs many projects similar to this every year. The time and money that will be invested into this project will be costly, but in contrast it is projected to pay off in the near future. Management and Information SystemsThe Limited, Inc. utilizes a variety of proprietary and third party computer technologies - both hardware and software - into its businesses every day. The company also relies on numerous third parties and their systems' ability to address the Year 2000 issue. The Limited's critical functions include point-of-sale equipment, merchandise distribution, merchandise and non-merchandise procurement, credit card and banking services, and business and accounting management systems. The company is using both internal and external resources to complete its Year 2000 initiatives.In order to address the Year 2000 issue, the company established a Program Management office to oversee, monitor and coordinate the company-wide Year 2000 effort. This office has developed and is implementing a Year 2000 plan. There are several areas of focus in this plan: 1) renovation of legacy systems throughout the company; 2) installation of new software packages to replace legacy systems; 3) assessment of Year 2000 readiness at key vendors and suppliers; and 4) evaluating facilities and distribution equipment with embedded computer technology. Total expenditures that were incurred through 1998 related to remediation, testing, conversion, replacement, and upgrading system applications were $70 million. Total remaining expenditures are expected to range from $15 to $20 million through the year 2000.At the present time, The Limited, Inc. is not aware of any Year 2000 issues that are expected to affect materially its products, services, competitive position, or financial performance.ANALYSIS OF EXTERNAL DOMAINSPolitical and L...
