Silicon Valley Software Expert Says Both Government and Industry
Procrastination Is Creating Major Y2K Problems and Expenses; Y2K Problem Is More Complex Than OMB and Corporate Planners Think, More
'Surprises' Due for Shareholders and Taxpayers, Says President of Windward Group
LOS GATOS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 18, 1997--The
president of a Silicon Valley software firm which helps major
corporations ready their computer systems for the year 2000
(Y2K), commented on reports from the White House Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) that it will cost $3.8 billion to
prepare government computer systems for 2000. He believes
their cost will be "double that."
Doug Engfer, president of The Windward Group, a software
design, development, quality assurance, and documentation
consultancy here said: "Problems with Y2K go far beyond
computers thinking '00' means 1900 instead of the year 2000.
Companies and the government need to get their arms around
a problem that seems to grow without stopping.
"If shareholders of America's major corporations knew the
state of the Y2K assessment in those companies, they'd be
appalled," said Engfer. "At least the government is trying to
understand the scope of what they face. This is not the last
such surprise we will get from the OMB, and the final budget
will likely be at least double current estimates.
"We can count on similar 'bombs' from industries we have
trusted in the private sector, including banks, credit card
companies and others," Engfer said. "Even if they begin work
immediately, most organizations will not be able to complete
their projects in time."
The Windward Group provides software design and
development, documentation, and quality assurance services
to a diverse client base. Their success in a broad spectrum of
technologies springs from their ability to create long-term
partnerships, dedication to quality, and experienced
associates with strong technical expertise. Key clients
include: FedEx Ship (shipping software for the SOHO market),
PIM software and handheld-to-desktop architecture for Palm
Computing Division of 3COM Corp., and GUIA (Genesis Utility
Information Applications) for Itron Inc.
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brough.com .
North America,United States of America
BUSINESS WIRE
Author: Business Editors
September 18, 1997 |
