Written by Jean Edouard Nicolet, Business Development Manager
The successful and effective adoption and implementation of a Port Community System (PCS) depends upon on, at the very first instance, three basic factors; firstly accepting there is a problem with port operations, recognising that a PCS is the solution, and demonstrating a willingness to incorporate it across an entire organisation and related stakeholders.
More specifically, developing a PCS process depends on an agreement to integrate at the local and government levels to create an effective and open corridor for the transnational movement of goods. All of the necessary framework that is drafted and agreed upon must be comprehensive enough to address and react to any eventuality in order to maintain the operational consistency of the corridor.
Consistency is the key. The operational, functional and technical feasibility of rolling out a system as complicated and far-reaching as a PCS must be considered and presented to stakeholders at every level.
This includes engagement with each stage of a port’s logistics chain, from the companies that own the ships being loaded with containers to the local factories producing the goods that will fill the containers and travel the world – and everything above, below and in between.
The operational consistency a PCS can deliver can only be achieved through the full adoption of automation; only by moving into a modern, sophisticated, computer-led and 100% paperless environment can ports and their associated communities of firms and stakeholders expect to grow and thrive in today’s globally connected and computerised trade landscape.
Moving into a document-free workplace is not without hurdles, but these are minor when compared to the huge benefits port operators and logistics providers can expect to enjoy as a result.
At its very essence, a PCS is an advanced IT platform that allows for the automation of all logistics related business strategies and procedures. As the leading expert in the streamlining of trade and customs, Webb Fontaine’s PCS implementation process follows a collaborative methodology that involves every aspect of operations and all business partners.
The result is a fully optimised trade and customs landscape with the PCS system’s full implementation ensuring the total success of the project.
By creating fluidity in trade processes, the PCS allows for reduced processing times and the swifter and more efficient exchange of information with no need for long and convoluted paper trails – the result is a rapidly processed and completely monitored flow of goods in and out of a port.
The digitised scanning, documenting and tracking of cargo in real time is a major benefit of the PCS system, with each step of the process fully transparent to the wider logistics community and important customs authorities.
Read more in our Webb Ports series
The future of Port Community Systems
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About Webb Fontaine
Webb Fontaine is revolutionising international trade by empowering governments and communities with technology powered by AI. We offer comprehensive solutions across the trade spectrum, ranging from risk management to customs systems, single window, and beyond. Webb Fontaine is headquartered in Dubai, UAE with a presence across Europe, Middle East, South America, Asia and Africa.
