Huge disaster looming in public authorities
Computerwoche reports on the Y2K problems faced by public authorities
Computerwoche by Michael Funk
“The general mood in the public authorities reveals one thing in particular: They underestimate the complexity of changing the dates at the turn of the millennium or are simply ignoring it. They are not even seeking the advice of external consultants. …
The Year 2000 experts at the management consultancy Compartner Düsseldorf GmbH know what they are talking about. “Our experience in conversion projects shows that the Y2K problem can be on the same scale in the public administration as in the private economy,” says CEO Peter Rasenberger. “But the projects, which are anyway overdue, are being delayed even further because there is no money. Depleted budgets therefore present an additional potential threat.”
Rasenberger describes the mood in public authorities in a nutshell: “The Y2K topic reflects a typical German phenomenon: problems are not perceived or even ignored. But if you don’t have the courage to point out risks and unpleasant topics, you can never be sure where you stand.””