ORBUS is a tool facilitating the electronic collection of pre-clearance documents
The platform interconnects all the administrative bodies involved in the processing of import/export formalities and enables declarants to lodge their requests through a single electronic form.
All the processes are automated and the results are available in soft format, with the possibility of printing hard copies. The solution is flexible and modular, and is very likely to comply with the different technical, organisational and geographic constraints.
ORBUS interconnects in Senegal the following stakeholders:
- Foreign Trade Division
- Maritime Fishery Department
- Livestock Department
- Plant Health Office
- Control and Quality Division
- Currency and Credit Department
- Metrology Department
- Banks
- Insurance companies
- Inspection agency (COTECNA)
The system features: The Direct Users:
- The Bond Holding Companies
- The Major Import/Export Companies and The Distribution Relays:
- The Customs Brokers
- The Chambers of Commerce
- The Facilitation Centres
System operation
Modules
Request transmission module [1, 4, 5]
The importer has a unique web window whereby he can send a request to all the administrative bodies connected to the system. Once the invoice data are entered, the system proposes to the trader the documents necessary for his operation. Upon validation, his request is sent automatically to all the stakeholders involved in the operation. The importer receives all documents on his screen once the requests have been processed. The documents can be printed or sent to Customs electronically. The importer can monitor the progress of all these transactions in real time.
Despatching module [2]
This module is the heart of the system. It integrates all the business rules for import and export operations. Based on the data captured by the customer, it analyses the suitable set of documents and proposes it to the customer. Upon validation by the customer, the module forwards the data and attached documents to the appropriate stakeholders. The stakeholder only receives data from the module that concerns it specifically; data diffusion is therefore not abused and confidentiality is respected. Parameters may be set on this module according to the regulations in force.
Stakeholder module [3]
This module acts as the interface with the stakeholders* connected to the system. It receives requests from importers. It has several processing functions; the stakeholder can therefore validate requests, request modifications or reject them. Several users may be identified in the stakeholder and the module allocates a specific function to all of them. Profiles are administered locally. This module is available in web and client versions. It may therefore be deployed in both forms depending on the customer's priorities. * all private or public administrative bodies involved in the import-export process for document issue.
Monitoring module
This gives the unit running the platform an overview of the system's performances. It acts therefore as support for the helpdesk that knows the location of a file at any one time and can thus send it for processing. It is also a performance-enhancing tool, as it monitors transactions and performance indicator integration. It is crucial to a proper operation of the system.
Management modules
These modules allow the system to be exploited. Particular mention should be made of the registration module, invoicing module, file printing module and receipt distribution module between the various stakeholders. These modules enable an efficient commercial exploitation of the platform.
Interfaces available online:
- Clearing Agent Interface >> open
- Stakeholder Interface >> open
Film: ORBUS (4'12)
Press release
- GAINDE et ORBUS en vitesse de croisière, Le Soleil, 29 and 30 january 2005>> read
- Lancement ORBUS 2000, Le Soleil, Journal de l'économie 05/12/2004>> read
