startbesked

Startbesked is a Danish term meaning “start notice” or “initial notification.” It refers to the first message sent to inform a person, business, or system that a specific administrative or processing task has begun. The term is commonly used in public administration, welfare, and other regulated workflows in Denmark.

In public sector use, a startbesked marks the opening of a case or application and typically provides essential information about what is required, the relevant program or service, the timeline, and what will happen next. It may include a case or reference number, a summary of next steps, documents to submit, deadlines, and contact details. Delivery methods can vary, including traditional mail, e-mail, or a secure digital portal.

In digital and workflow contexts, a startbesked can function as an automated trigger that initiates downstream tasks. Examples include assigning a case to a caseworker, generating to-do lists for applicants, or scheduling follow-up actions. The notice helps set expectations, coordinate actions among stakeholders, and begin data collection or eligibility assessment.

Etymology and usage: the term is composed of the Danish words start (beginning) and besked (notification or message). While its precise content and requirements vary by program and agency, startbeskeder are generally informational rather than decisions, intended to orient recipients at the outset of a process.

See also: besked, varsel, information.