Single Window Systems
In the OIC Member States
6
platform. The WCO for example recognizes that “countries may enjoy fuller benefits of a SW by
using Information and Communication Technology (ICT)”3.
Single Window approaches are not limited to the trade field. Governments adopted them for
many government services, including business licensing, and vehicle registration. As unified
service platforms Single Windows 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. Since than the evolution of
the concept were shaped by changes in the Information and Communication Technology
(ICT)– se below.
Since the mid-60s, ICT has been introduced into public administrations, and since the mid 80’s
ICT systems have been deployed 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, by the late 90’s customs services worldwide were generally
automated, but other government agencies still relied on manual paper based processes.
3 WCO, The Single Window concept
Box 2: IT Evolution Since 80's
1980's
until mid
90’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