ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has embarked on a significant overhaul, initiating the replacement of the existing Web Based One Customs (WeBOC) with a state-of-the-art customs digital management system.
This strategic move is aimed at upgrading and transforming the core functions of Pakistan Customs through comprehensive Business Process Mapping & Re-engineering.
In an official notification, the FBR outlined its commitment to modernizing customs operations, emphasizing the need for a new digital system to replace WeBOC. The FBR has engaged international consultants to conduct a thorough business process analysis and develop artifacts for the forthcoming digital system. This comprehensive consultancy encompasses not only technical aspects but also involves legal and procedural changes, as well as change management.
To facilitate this ambitious initiative, the FBR has established a Project Implementation Committee (PIC) to oversee the consultancy. The committee will work closely with various Working Groups, each assigned specific work streams of Pakistan Customs. The primary objective of these Working Groups is to assess the operational and technical aspects of the business requirement specification documents developed by the consultants. Their Terms of Reference (TORs) include:
1. Apply subject expertise during the evaluation of current ‘As-is’ business operations, processes, and data requirements, providing input before the finalization of related documents.
2. Critically examine and evaluate the proposed ‘To-be’ process flows, offering timely feedback before finalization of related documents and proposals.
3. Assess interventions suggested by the consulting firm.
4. Validate the output of the consultancy in their respective work streams.
5. Perform any other tasks assigned by the PIC.
Focal persons have also been appointed for each work stream to ensure close coordination between the consulting firm and Customs. These individuals, attached to PSW Company, will play a crucial role in facilitating communication, expediting the review process within Customs, and advising senior management on various implementation issues. Their specific TORs include:
1. Facilitate consultants in capturing the current ‘As-Is’ position comprehensively.
2. Apply subject expertise during the evaluation of current business operations, processes, and data requirements by the consulting firm, providing guidance during the assessment phase.
3. Provide subject matter expertise and advice to the relevant working group and the PIC in validating the output of consultants at the mapping and re-engineering stage.
4. Sign-off on documents related to the output of consultancy, including As-Is and To-Be processes, with prior approval of the respective Working Group.
5. Organize and facilitate consultation/validation sessions with Customs and other stakeholders.
6. Provide support in the holistic review of policy, legal, and procedural changes.
7. Act as a liaison officer for effective coordination between Customs and the consulting firm in their respective work streams.
8. Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to implement change management and communication plans.
9. Assist the PIC in resolving the issue of duplication or overlapping of work streams among different Working Groups.
10. Perform any other tasks assigned by the PIC.
This strategic transition underscores the FBR’s commitment to modernize and enhance efficiency in customs operations, aligning with global best practices and setting the stage for a more streamlined and responsive system. The FBR remains focused on ensuring a smooth and effective transition, with the active involvement of all stakeholders.
