The Year 2000 (Y2K) problem, or "Millennium Bug," is defined as the failure of a computer system to correctly deal with dates in the 21st Century; in particular, the transition from the year 1999, to the year 2000. With the new millennium approaching, Sierra is committed to insuring that there is no interruption in service to our clients and no decline in data quality.

As part of our process, all operations-critical, computer-based systems have been evaluated. Wherever problems have been identified, we are following a strategy of "repair or replace", depending on which is most cost effective.

All areas of computing are being addressed, including business applications, LIMS, instrument control, data processing, third-party suppliers, and service providers. Additionally, we are implementing programs to address customer concerns, vendor management, and contingency planning. The following are brief descriptions of some of the issues we're addressing in our plan.

• All computer hardware has been assessed for Y2K compliance and some personal computers are known to have Y2K date problems in their basic input-output system (BIOS). Any units for which corrections cannot be made, or which cannot be upgraded for Y2K compliance will be replaced.  This process will be completed by July 1999.

• Sierra uses instrument software from major vendors such as Hewlett Packard and Perkin-Elmer. We have compiled information on Y2K compliance from these vendors and are working with them to upgrade, or replace any software known to be non-compliant. These upgrades will be completed by the end of July 1999.

• LabTrack, our laboratory information management system has been determined to be Y2K compliant. All other networking, operating system, business and accounting applications have also been determined to be Y2K compliant.

• Sierra is in the process of requesting assurance of Y2K compliance from all key vendors of materials and services. As vendor responses are received and evaluated, Sierra will assess the suitability of each vendor and make provisions that will insure a steady and uninterrupted flow of materials and services. We expect this effort to be completed by the end of August 1999.

Sierra is intent on eliminating the Y2K problem from our operations. We are committed to allocating whatever resources are necessary for upgrading or replacing hardware and software and expect to meet our target dates for compliance.

Disclaimer:
Sierra has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information presented here, however it is provided "as is", for  information purposes only. We do not intend for this information to constitute a representation or warranty of any nature on the part of Sierra, nor does it in any way modify Sierra's Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, we do not warrant the above information and shall not be liable for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in such information.

 

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