Single Window Systems
In the OIC Member States
98
In this phase fundamental choices are made about the design and the implementation of the SW.
These choices have to be made understanding the implications and dependencies. If the
analytical work does not provide this information wrong choice may be made leading to sub-
optimal choices.
2. Lack of Control of Execution
SWs may depend on third party financing. This often leads to non-control over funding and the
use thereof. With a third party funding, there are three layers of communication in the project,
and the third party may only be accountable to the funding party but not the SW operator.
Outsourcing IT development often leads to disconnect the SW entity and the third party and lack
of communication on delays and implementation difficulties.
SW operators often do not have the absorption capacity to fully engage as equal partner in the
project delivery, and often it is not recognized that both vendors and SW entity need to make
investment in staff, technology, and equipment and infrastructure.
Why does it matter?
Without a good and timely communication between all partners delays and difficulties cannot
be noted and addressed in time. This can put a project under pressure if the financing scheme
does not provide for flexibility. It also increases the risk of not matching visions to the
development.
3. Weak Control of Project Execution
Single Window projects are complex projects and often fail to deliver on time and on budget.
Single Window Project teams seldom use consistently an accepted project management
methodology to steer the projects. Commonly, an IT management framework is implemented by
the third party solution provider, but no equal level of scrutiny applies to the overall
implementation process, including the changes necessary within the external SW parties.
Why does it matter?
Weak project management result in loss of control over the SW project and is frequently the
reason for poor project integration. As consequence, the project will be delayed and the quality
of the deliverables will not meet the SW objectives and expectations.
4. Non-Implementation of Necessary Changes
Single Window projects require changes of the legal framework, business processes and
operational practices of agencies and stakeholders. These changes are decisive for a successful
Single Window implementation but often fail to be delivered at all or on time for the following
reasons:
 Changes to the legal and regulatory framework: The SW operator itself does not have the
capacity to make regulatory changes and relies on the legislator and government agencies to
do so.