Overcoming the challenges of harmonizing trade data for national single window in the Maldives / Ibrahim Asim

Abstract

Trade data in the Maldives is created, used and managed by multiple agencies including public institutions and private agencies. Most of the data are not standardized or harmonized and as a result, creates challenges for establishing National Single Window in the Maldives. Undermining the importance of data harmonization and creating new software applications increases unwanted recurrent cost to most of the agencies.

The objective of this research is to study the reasons behind the hesitancy in harmonizing the trade data by giving more emphasis on application development and how the authorized agencies can help in harmonizing trade data. Use of information technology in major partners (public and private) will be explored and recommendation will be given in finding a solution for the unique problem that existed for many years. Information will be collected using questionnaire, site visits and open discussions with the stakeholders (senior / managerial and end users). The staff at decision making level will also be interviewed in finding their views, knowledge and experience on how institutes and agencies could help in a national level task of harmonizing trade data.


Keywords:
Business Process Analysis, national single window, data harmonizing, redundant data