Place holder of WCO Dm logo
The WCO Data Model (DM) has been the data foundation for global trade interoperability for over two decades. It was developed to provide a universal language for cross-border data exchange. It is a compilation of clearly structured, harmonized, standardized, and reusable sets of data definitions and electronic messages designed to meet the operational and legal requirements of Customs and other cross-border regulatory agencies (CBRAs) responsible for border management. The DM significantly reduces costs and improves efficiencies for Members and other stakeholders, such as the business community.
The current version of the DM, version 3, has evolved to meet the needs of its users over the years. Solutions for Single Window systems, Multi-Modal Manifest, and XML were some of the enhancements offered to meet increased governmental regulatory requirements and the demands for new technologies.
The global trade landscape continues to rapidly change as advancements in technology make data more accessible and governments adjust regulations to leverage these advancements. The role of the DM as the data foundation becomes even more essential as the WCO and Members focus on formulating a data strategy. Version 4 will keep the DM at the forefront by supporting cutting edge technologies and making vast improvements to the model.
The WCO DM has only been available for free to Members through the download of a group of spreadsheets, XML schemas, and UML diagrams. While these documents are useful during implementation, the presentation of this information can be challenging to understand for most non-technical users, and it does not provide functionality expected of an expertly packaged product. Version 4 will deliver an extensively enhanced presentation of the DM with the introduction of the WCO DM App.
The WCO DM App is an interactive web-based application that will give Members the ability to easily view, search, and compare data elements in the DM without having to go to multiple locations. Users will be able to reference other Member’s national information packages to assist them with mapping and the maintenance process will become easier with the automation and storage of the DMR form. The App will also provide all the necessary technical guidance materials, including the conventional downloadable documents giving Members all the information they need in one location.
As a tool for communicating information, it is important that the WCO DM help ensure the integrity of the data being communicated. Version 4 will greatly improve the quality of the WCO DM by removing inconsistencies that have emerged over the years in previous versions providing assurance in each data element and electronic message. In addition, Version 4 will simplify the DM structures and building blocks to ease the learning curve and make it easier to understand and implement.
System implementations can be complex and take considerable time. Increasing the usage guidance and making it available in the DM App in Version 4 will drastically reduce the time it takes to perform key implementation tasks such as mappings and assist with migrations by highlighting the differences between version 3 and 4.
New technological developments in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) systems offer new benefits, such as faster, more reliable, and efficient ICT systems. As more service providers offer these technological services, the required investment decreases making modernizations more practical. Version 4 will enable users to implement the WCO DM in a modern technological environment with the latest in electronic message formats and exchange protocols by supporting the JSON message format and Open API.
Version 4 is Coming June 2023!