National Database SystemThe Australian Experience

• Runs on mainframe computer system which is being phased out

• Developed in ADABAS/NATURALwhich is a legacy programming environment

What system is in place now?

Limitations of current system

• Fixes needed to cope with increasing numbers of transactions

• Does not use graphical user interface (mouse)

• Manual manipulation of data for INCB Forms

• Multiple opportunities for errors• Considerable time required to train new staff• Cannot run flexible enquiries or management reports

• Changes in standard technology

• Increasing administrativeworkloads

• Stakeholder needs

Why do we need to change?

Anticipated benefits• reduced number of errors - better data

• decrease in amount of manual keying (duplication of effort)

• less manual manipulation and checking of data for inclusion in INCB reports

• better service to clients

• capacity for integrated systems with Customs Service and States/Territories

• improved communication

Changes required for internationally controlled substances• Link standard licence and permit conditions to

particular substances or importers/exportersFor example:– Goods must not be stored at the importer’s address but

delivered directly to [address]– Goods on this permit are for use in laboratory analysis

only.– The importer must notify Australian Customs Service of

arrival time, flight number at least 12 hours prior to arrival of the goods [pseudoephedrine raw material]

Changes required to internationally controlled substances (cont.)

• View address on authorisation screen• Flag exports which require corresponding imports

permits for Schedule III and IV psychotropic substances

• Make competent authority an optional field in import screens

• Permit authorities to choose if error messages can be over-ridden

What changes do we need for substances not under international control?

• capacity to print different permit types for different groups (eg anabolic steroids)

• substance master file to include additional parameters which can be turned off (eg need for estimates, licences)

Where to next?

• establish master files

• migrate existing data

• customise licences/permits/letters/ reports

• customise data input screens, terminology, error messages and help screens

• setup security and access

and then…...

• VALIDATE

• IMPLEMENT

• OPERATE

• ONGOING TRAINING & SUPPORT