mededelingen

Mededelingen are informational communications intended to inform a specific group about facts, updates, or instructions. The term is the plural of mededeling and is used for notices, bulletins, or messages issued within organizations or communities. A mededeling is typically brief and focused on what recipients need to know or do.

Etymology and usage: The word stems from the Dutch verb mededelen, meaning to inform or communicate something to someone. Mededelingen can take various forms, including written notes, emails, intranet posts, or notices pinned on a board. They are commonly used in schools, companies, government bodies, churches, and other institutions to disseminate schedules, policy changes, reminders, or operational instructions. They are usually addressed to a defined audience and may include deadlines or required actions.

Characteristics and distinctions: Mededelingen differ from broader messages (berichten) in their purpose and audience—mededelingen are targeted and often carry a specific instruction or update. They may also be called school mededelingen, church mededelingen, or workplace bulletins, depending on the context. In practice, the terms mededelingen, mededeling, or mededelingenblad are used to describe ongoing or recurring communications within an organization.

Best practices: Effective mededelingen are clear, concise, and unambiguous; they identify the audience, date, and source; they specify any required actions and deadlines; and they provide contact information for questions. The chosen medium should fit the recipients (for example, intranet posts for employees, bulletin boards for on-site notices, or emails for staff).