As the millennium approached, were organizations ready for the Year 2000 (Y2K) challenge? This paper presents a case study of Firstlogic, a software company in Wisconsin, USA, and their comprehensive Y2K preparedness strategy. The paper offers a valuable historical perspective on how organizations addressed a major technological challenge. At Firstlogic, products underwent rigorous testing for Y2K compliance, leading to suggested solutions for non‐compliant systems. The company allocated resources for system modification or replacement and addressed relevant legal issues to safeguard against Y2K‐related lawsuits. It details the proactive steps taken to ensure business continuity and minimize potential disruptions. This paper serves as a valuable case study for understanding organizational risk management and disaster recovery strategies. While the Y2K problem is now a historical event, the lessons learned from Firstlogic's preparedness efforts remain relevant for addressing future technological challenges, and has useful information for technology-enabled organizations.
Published in Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal, this case study aligns perfectly with the journal's focus. By detailing Firstlogic's Y2K preparedness, the paper offers practical insights into organizational strategies for mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity in the face of potential disasters.