Application of data-centered approach to year 2000 problem

The data-centered approach to the Year 2000 problem can be useful in the following manner: variable classification is used to identify all input and output variables that are affected by the initial set of variables based on dependence analysis; generalized program slicing is performed to identify all the statements that potentially need to be changed once Year 2000 related variables are identified; and the changed software should be validated and regression testing can be used in this stage. Ripple effect analysis can be used in this stage by identifying the relevant test cases that needed to be evaluated. This is done by maintaining traceability links between the software and its test cases.