Single Window Systems
In the OIC Member States
6
The majority of the Single Windows are now electronic platforms. Early Single Window
initiatives, however also comprised physical versions, that brought together separate public
entities in one physical location. These approaches are now referred to as One-Stop Shops as it
is commonly understood that a Single Window rests on a shared Information Technology (IT)
platform. The WCO for example recognizes that “countries may enjoy fuller benefits of a SW by
using Information and Communication Technology (ICT)”6.
Single Window approaches are not limited to the trade field. Governments adopted them for
many government services, including business licensing, and vehicle registration. Single
Windows as unified service platforms enable a cross-organisational delivery of service through
simple and efficient procedures. The underpinning logic of a Single Window approach is to
deliver fast and seamless services for the end users - as opposed to organisation centric
formalities and processes that require people to come to their office and collect/consume the
service.
1.1.1. Evolution of the Concept
The first Single Windows for Trade were launched in the late ‘90s to leverage opportunities of
technological changes that occurred at that time. Information and Communication Technology
(ICT) changes have continued to shape the evolution since than – se below.
Box 2: IT Evolution Since 80's
1980's Mainframe area Customs management systems
late 90’s
PC centric/client server infrastructure
Direct Trader Input/ Centralization of
services
Beginning of Internet Early Single Windows
2005 Expansion of internet
Web-based Services
Increase service coverage of the Single
Windows
2010
Expansion of the IT Technology -
Heterogeneity
Interoperability of systems
Cross-border data exchange / SW
Since themid-60s, ICT has been used in public administration and since themid 80’s ICT systems
have been deployed worldwide to support customs clearance and trade statistics. During the so-
called mainframe era until the mid-90’s, these ICT systems were large and costly systems and
they were deployed to automate frequently used and standardized business processes, such as
customs clearance. Hence, whilst customs services were automated, other government agencies
procedures were manual paper based processes.
6 WCO, The Single Window concept