It was massive in scope, required the efforts of millions of people and the expenditure of billions of dollars, but it could be, and was, dealt with. The challenges came in phases. First, it was necessary to achieve public understanding as to what was at stake.
Next, to achieve the committed involvement of not only computer technicians (that was easy) but also organizational leadership throughout our economy. And finally, after a frighteningly slow start, there was a nearly frantic rush to complete all the work necessary before the deadline arrived.