Book excerpt: "It is naive to think we will all be prepared for Y2K by December 31, 1999. This is an important and timely book in which the authors provide clear and cogent advice for managing the entire spectrum of Year 2000 business and legal risks." -Dr. Edward Yardeni, Chief Economist, Deutsche Bank Securities Y2K Risk Management Every organization needs an effective risk management strategy to address Year 2000 business and legal risks, even if your own computer systems are repaired and tested. Your vendors may be unable to deliver supplies and customers unable to pay invoices. Failures of public and private infrastructure systems-such as power, water, and transportation-could cause major operational disruptions. If you suffer Y2K financial losses, you may need to seek compensation from responsible parties. Or if you are unable to meet contractual, fiduciary, or regulatory obligations as a result of Year 2000 problems, you may face litigation. This indispensable guide reveals the legal landscape unique to Y2K and covers such vital topics as: * Business and legal risk assessment * Identifying and safeguarding mission-critical business functions * Fast-tracking a Y2K project * Evaluating and protecting the supply chain * Developing contingency plans and fall-back procedures * Preparing a legal audit and reducing liability exposure * Substantiating due diligence of Y2K compliance efforts * Implications of the Year 2000 Information and Readiness Disclosure Act, SEC disclosure rules, and independent auditing guidelines * Insurance coverage issues * Exercising fiduciary duties and protecting corporate officers and information technology professionals * Litigation planning and alternative dispute resolution