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Multiple Agencies

A Review of Oversight for the State's Embedded Systems Year 2000 Repair Efforts

August 1998

Report Number 98-056

Overall Conclusion

 Less than 17 months remain until the Year 2000, and many state entities have not made adequate progress in ensuring their embedded systems will work when the Year 2000 arrives.

Key Facts and Findings

Embedded systems are equipment with internal microchip devices such as security systems, prison control units, and certain medical equipment. Disruptions in critical state services, such as public health and safety, could occur if these systems fail.

We noted the following concerns from our work:

  • Many entities lack contingency plans in case their embedded systems fail.
  • Several entities reported a lack of funds as a barrier to embedded systems repair efforts.
  • No entity is responsible for coordinating and reporting on statewide embedded systems repair efforts.

Contact the SAO about this report.

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