Communication between municipalities and entrepreneurs is often disjointed, with messages being sent through various channels such as postal letters, separate emails, and portal messages. Entrepreneurs find it challenging to maintain an overview, while municipalities struggle with organisation. “We all want simplicity and clarity. The Message Box for Businesses provides a solution that we should all embrace,” says Eric Schunselaar, a business analyst at the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG).
The Message Box for Businesses provides municipalities with the chance to enhance their communication processes significantly. Whether it’s handling tax assessments or processing permit applications, everything can be done more quickly, safely, and efficiently. With support from the VNG and hands-on experience, municipalities can successfully make this transition. As Schunselaar aptly states, “The Message Box is not a luxury; it is a fundamental component of modern government.”
One common challenge, one common solution
In discussions with municipalities, Schunselaar consistently notices a recurring issue: both municipalities and entrepreneurs face challenges due to fragmented communication. Entrepreneurs receive messages through various channels such as email, portals, and postal mail, which makes it difficult for them to maintain an overview. “The Message Box offers a solution by consolidating all communications into 1 central location. This approach prevents chaos and provides clarity for both parties,” he explains.
Service that makes people happy
The strength of the Message Box lies not only in its ability to provide an overview but also in facilitating interaction. Schunselaar cites a personal example: “I recently applied online for a parking permit from the municipality of Rotterdam. Within a minute, I received the permit. That’s the kind of service that makes you happy as a resident.”
The Message Box is designed to facilitate both simple notifications and two-way communication. You can think of it like a permit application for a neighbourhood party, which typically only requires a brief exchange of information. Additionally, the Message Box is beneficial for one-way communication. For example, tax assessments are largely sent digitally to citizens through MijnOverheid (MyGovernment), according to Schunselaar. “However, for entrepreneurs, this process still often relies on traditional mail, indicating that there is room for improvement in this area.”
Getting Started
Implementing the Message Box can be challenging. Municipalities must integrate it into their existing systems, such as case management systems or permit software. Larger municipalities, which typically have more resources, are already making progress. However, for smaller municipalities, this integration is more complicated. “That’s why we, as VNG, along with RVO, actively support municipalities in their implementation,” Schunselaar explains. “By working together, we create a unified approach, which helps to lower the barriers.”
For municipalities still unsure about using the Message Box, Schunselaar offers a helpful suggestion: “Just start using it. Explore its possibilities and limitations and provide feedback to VNG. We can only discover how to improve the Message Box through experience. Sending tax assessments via the Message Box could be an easy first step. This approach not only reduces paper flow but also ensures that entrepreneurs receive their assessments safely and on time.”
The 2 Message Boxes
The Message Box is a secure digital mailbox where residents receive official communications from government agencies, such as the Tax Administration, UWV, or municipalities. This includes important documents like benefit decisions, tax assessments, and information about permits. The Message Box is part of MijnOverheid and can be accessed using DigiD.
For entrepreneurs, there is the Message Box for Businesses, which serves a similar purpose. In this mailbox, entrepreneurs receive messages regarding permits, subsidies, and local taxes. The Message Box for Businesses is linked to eRecognition, which is the login tool for businesses.
