ASYCUDA++ IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE
Ó UNCTAD - SITE (V1.15)
B.13
Relevant Implementation Issues
The following are issues common to many implementation projects:
Training
Training is a critical component of the implementation plan and many activities are dependent on
the completion of the training program. The project team can achieve little productive effort until
they have been trained in ASYCUDA and system development methodologies. Additionally,
Customs staff and management and the trading community need to be trained in those aspects of
the new procedures and technology that will enable them to manage and use the system efficiently.
The aims of the training are:
· For the project team to be able to build and install the system successfully;
· For the national users to develop the essential skills to maximise the benefits of the software
and to ensure that Customs is able to configure, operate and manage the system
independently on a day to day basis, particularly with regard to legal, fiscal and administrative
changes; and
· For the system support team to maintain the software and to continue development in accord
with the needs of the national Customs administration.
Data Conversion
One of the higher risk activities early in the project is the conversion and building of the reference
and control file database used to configure the ASYCUDA system. The completeness and
accuracy of these files is critical to the integrity of the system.
Two major tasks in this activity are the building of the Tariff file and the Importer registration file.
These are major tasks and with the Importer file a unique method of identification needs to be
developed to ensure the security of the client registration process. In some instances the required
data may be available within existing Customs or other Government departments data systems.
Staffing
Successful project implementation requires a high degree of commitment by the national Customs
administration, by making available highly qualified and experienced staff to provide the expertise
and user input. The staffing components of the plan should be framed to ensure that as a priority
competent staff are available as and when needs require.
Single Administrative Document (SAD)
Perhaps one of the most important changes is the way internal Customs procedures will change
following the introduction of the Single Administrative Document (SAD). This document is the
driving force of changes in the workflow and apart from an additional step of data capture will
greatly simplify the processes of document examination and duty assessment. New import and
export declaration forms, based on the SAD need to be introduced early in the project and certainly
well in advance of computerisation. Introduction of the new documents includes an extensive
consultation and education process involving trade and industry.