“The time is right for this in-depth study,” said Richard Morton, secretary-general of IPCSA. “A notable impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has been wider recognition that Port Community Systems are a vital trade facilitation tool in ports – and yet there is still a lack of understanding about how the PCS operates and what it does and doesn’t do.
“In particular, technology and IT are just the enablers. The creation and successful implementation of a Port Community System is a change management project far more than an IT project. Time needs to be taken to build the community and establish trust.”
IPCSA has secured the help of Tarragona-based PCS specialist Anna Navarro in the collating and compiling of this important study, and the focus will be on creating a ‘living’ document offering relevant and practical support, rather than something to be filed away and forgotten.
“This valuable study will provide a baseline standard for PCS development around the world,” said IPCSA chairman Hans Rook. “We have
all seen studies that become outdated in a short time but our approach will be to create a modular study which allows use cases and other elements to be updated simply and on a regular basis.
“We are determined to ensure that the latest information is available. The study will be carried out using the experience and knowledge of IPCSA members, who are based around the globe and range from the first PCSs in the world to up-and-coming PCS and Single Window operators. In alignment with this, we are looking to develop a similar project covering Cargo Community Systems (CCS) in airports.”
IPCSA would welcome the input and insight of ports, PCS operators, and others in this study, said Richard Morton. “If you are a port or PCS operator and would like to contribute, we would be pleased to hear from you.”
Today IPCSA has nearly 50 members, including Port Community System (PCS) and Cargo Community System operators, Single Window operators, and Seaport and Airport Authorities, drawn from all regions of the world. It is also a recognized NGO with consultative status at UN ECOSOC and IMO.
Since its official launch on 15 June 2011, IPCSA has achieved rapid growth in membership, while establishing its reputation and influence as an expert authority and adviser on the electronic exchange of information and digitalization to smooth the flow of cargo and documentation.
