The Future is DECCS
Article Summary
DECCS, or the Defense Export Control and Compliance System, is DDTC’s modernized IT system for managing ITAR compliance, replacing older systems like D-Trade and EFS.
The first phase focuses on the new Commodity Jurisdiction (CJ) application, featuring web-based forms, digital signatures, and multi-browser compatibility.
DECCS offers a streamlined user experience, the ability to save work in progress, and a centralized platform for ITAR registration, licensing, and CJ requests.
EFS will no longer accept CJ applications as of November 16, and DECCS will fully replace it starting November 21.
Future updates will automate notifications, enhance usability, and integrate all ITAR-related activities into a single platform.
The folks at DDTC are beginning a slow roll out of their new electronic interface, DECCS, starting next week. DECCS, which stands for the Defense Export Control and Compliance System, is DDTC’s new modernized IT system. It is intended to eventually replace the current D-Trade, the Electronic Filing System (EFS), MARY and ELLIE systems. The first phase of the DECCS rollout will focus on the new Commodity Jurisdiction (CJ) application.
DDTC recently hosted a webinar (available here) to get people up to speed on the process including a demo of the process to submit a CJ. Some new features include web-based applications instead of the prior Adobe PDF forms, the ability to save works in progress, the use of a digital signature instead of ink, and prompts to upload specific documents necessary to include with the specific form. Further, accessibility of the application will no longer be limited to a particular web browser as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari will all be available. Although DECCS will be the method used to submit CJ requests going forward, ELISA will still be available for users to track the status of requests. Determinations from DDTC will continue to be mailed although the notification process will be automated in a later version.
As you can imagine, new features and kinks will be worked out in subsequent releases. The vision for the system is to provide a better user experience with a one stop shop featuring a content rich home page, updates, history and copy in-progress or completed submissions. The end goal is for all activities associated with ITAR registration, commodity jurisdiction, and licensing to occur through DECCS. As of Wednesday, November 16 at 5:00 pm, DDTC will no longer accept CJ applications through the EFS system and will go dark until DECCS goes live on Monday, November 21.
Key Points
What is DECCS, and why is it important?
DECCS, or the Defense Export Control and Compliance System, is DDTC’s modernized IT system designed to:
- Replace Legacy Systems: DECCS will eventually replace D-Trade, the Electronic Filing System (EFS), MARY, and ELLIE.
- Streamline ITAR Compliance: Provide a centralized platform for ITAR registration, licensing, and Commodity Jurisdiction (CJ) requests.
- Enhance User Experience: Offer modern features like web-based applications, digital signatures, and multi-browser compatibility.
What is the first phase of DECCS, and what does it include?
The first phase of DECCS focuses on the new Commodity Jurisdiction (CJ) application. Key features include:
- Web-Based Forms: Replacing the older Adobe PDF forms.
- Digital Signatures: Eliminating the need for ink signatures.
- Save Work in Progress: Users can save drafts and return to them later.
- Multi-Browser Compatibility: Accessible via Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.
- Document Upload Prompts: Ensures users include all necessary documents with their submissions.
What are the benefits of DECCS for users?
DECCS offers several advantages over legacy systems:
- Streamlined Processes: Simplifies ITAR compliance by centralizing activities in one platform.
- Improved Accessibility: No longer limited to specific browsers or software.
- Enhanced Usability: Features like saving drafts and uploading documents improve efficiency.
- Future Automation: Notifications and updates will be automated in later versions.
What happens to legacy systems like EFS during the transition to DECCS?
The transition timeline includes:
- EFS Shutdown: As of November 16, EFS will no longer accept CJ applications.
- DECCS Launch: DECCS will go live on November 21, fully replacing EFS for CJ submissions.
- ELISA Availability: Users can still track the status of CJ requests through ELISA during the transition.
How will DECCS evolve in the future?
Future updates to DECCS aim to:
- Automate Notifications: Users will receive automated updates on the status of their submissions.
- Integrate ITAR Activities: All ITAR-related processes, including registration, licensing, and CJ requests, will be managed through DECCS.
- Enhance Usability: A content-rich home page, history tracking, and the ability to copy in-progress or completed submissions will improve the user experience.
How can users prepare for the transition to DECCS?
To prepare for DECCS, users should:
- Attend Webinars: DDTC has hosted webinars to familiarize users with the new system and its features.
- Update Processes: Transition from legacy systems like EFS to DECCS for CJ submissions.
- Train Employees: Ensure staff are trained on using DECCS and its new features.
- Monitor Updates: Stay informed about future releases and enhancements to the system.
