Y2K inaction could cripple sector: Garland

INACTION regarding the Millennium Bug could cripple WA’s small business sector says Small Business Development Corporation chairman John Garland.

Mr Garland said SBDC research confirmed while general awareness of Y2K was strong, as many as three out of four small businesses did not expect it to have an impact on their business.

“It appears from this research that small businesses are underestimating the size, nature and potential of the Millennium Bug problem,” he said.

“It is vitally important to remember your business is part of a chain of entities interacting with each other. Your internal systems may be affected by data received from these organisations.

“If you’re confident your internal systems have been taken care of, then talk about the Millennium Bug and its potential dangers with others in your supply chain.

“Make sure they are aware of just how damaging the Bug could be, not only to their own business but also to everyone else with whom they trade,” Mr Garland said.