Single Window Systems
In the OIC Member States
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A cross-functional design requires the use of integrated common process design and business
architecture, instead of an agency, procedure or business process centric design. Such a
common process design allows for the comprehensive simplification and, reengineering of the
business processes and, the re-use of IT services and processes for business processes with
similar requirements. The trend towards common business process inventories can be
observed in recent Single Window projects, such as the Cameroon second-generation project.
2.1.4 From Single Data Entry Location to Single Submission
There is a current trend towards a “Single Form” or Single Submission approach. Single
Windows were meant to provide a single data entry point, but in the past this was interpreted
as reducing contact points to one single portal. Users still needed to prepare separate requests
and data submissions for each regulatory requirement but could do so through an Internet
based portal.
The current trend is to adopt a single submission or single form, whereby the Single Window is
not only the single contact point but also processes a single data set and automatically
launches applications for authorisations and permits based on the Harmonized System (HS)
code, authorisations, registrations and other rules. Traders no longer have to launch individual
Box 4: Integrated Risk Management
Increased volume of international trade also increases opportunities for avoidance, evasion
and fraud of regulatory requirements in an increasingly sophisticated and organized
international manner. International security risks also increase due to international
terrorism.
Governments increasingly use risk-based compliance management for customs or other
purposes such as food safety and protection of animal, plant and human health and life
approaches to deal with these risks.
Currently, only few Single Windows support risk management and approaches are often
limited to transactional customs risk management and risk selectivity during customs
clearance. Single Windows now integrate risk management services, namely Integrated Risk
Management (IRM).
IRM supports the operational risk management processes of government agencies that are
involved in the approvals of permits and certificates (pre-arrival), control of goods and post
clearance control. The IRM engine is a rule-based approach to risk analysis, whereby the
individual analysis objects (traders, permits, declarations etc.) are assessed for risk,
primarily by assigning scores based on rules (risk indicators). Within this approach, the
starting point of risk analysis is the definition of a structured rule base.