be shipped first, but in the early weeks of the new millennium milk from year 00 is given precedence. Indeed, any milk remaining from December 1999 will not be scheduled until the end of 2099. Meanwhile, at the bakery across town a computer calculates the bread dated 01-01-00 must be a century old, and sends it to the landfill. Where Are We Now? If the companies and governments were to do nothing about the problem, unthinkable crisis would certainly follow. However, for a change, we have the media to thank for. Numerous reports, stories, and articles presented to people is likely to save us from such a disastrous possibility. No one can now say that they were not warned. Problem hits early The problems associated with the millennium bug have already started to prop up and many are expected to strike harder well before January 1, 1999. A report published by Cutter Consortium outlines some Significant Milestones Prior to 2000 (2): Jan 1, 1999: reservation systems that accept booking one year ahead and business planning systems projecting forward one year. April 1, 1999: NY State and some companies 2000 fiscal year begins, affecting all fiscal systems July 1, 1999: 44 more states and other companies begin their fiscal years. Sept. 9, 1999: Programmers use 9999 as an end of file indicator, so date may confuse system. Oct. 1, 1999: federal government and many other companies begin fiscal year 2000.Management reactions Unfortunately, all companies are not reacting accordingly. While many addressed the problem in somewhat timely manner, others are dragging their feet. Many are taking wrong positions. As stated by William McDonough, President of Federal Reserve Bank of New York, they are(3): Denial. The year 2000 is not an issue for our organization. No resource problems. "Our organization can handle the year 2000 with its existing resources and within current budgets." Vendors will address the issue. Our outside vendors and service provide...
