Glossary A–ZLetter C
Citizen information
Citizen information refers to screens in town halls, citizens' offices and other public authorities that inform visitors about procedures, waiting times, opening hours and news from the administration.
They are often linked to a queue management system. They are aimed at everyone who visits a public office.
In the waiting area of a citizens' office, the screen shows the numbers being called, along with notes on which documents to bring for an identity card or a change of address. Between calls, local events, roadworks notices or information on the administration's online services are shown. The waiting area thus becomes the first point of information.
Public administrations inform neutrally. Advertising and party-political content do not belong on these screens, and particular restraint is called for before elections. The form of official announcements is laid down by law; a screen is generally an additional notice, not a replacement. Multilingual content and legible type reach more people. Responsibilities for maintenance and approval should be set down in writing within the administration.