Errors, warnings and notifications

General rules for messaging

Three parts of a message: 1. title 2. explanation 3. action
Title: Name which information or problem may/will occur and where it comes from
Explanation: Give a clear reason for the (potential) error and explain it’s consequences if the user ignores it
Action: Add clear instructions telling the user what to do next to resolve the error
Do not blame the user
Avoid using you and your only use passive voice as an exception
Do not repeat your message in title and explanation
Do not over communicate
Use … to show an action is required, i.e. Fill this in…
Use a polite and encouraging tone
Keep it short
If detailed information is required, consider using progressive disclosure button
Provide specific names, locations and values of the objects involved
Show urgency through wording, e.g. “immediately” only if there are serious consequences from ignoring messages

System error: You’re offline. Check your connection and try again.
File error: We cannot upload this file. Try uploading again.
Permission error: To carry out this task, you need more permissions. Contact admin to change permissions.

What did you do!?
The email address you entered does not match the required format. Please enter your email address using the standard format.
You have failed to delete the device.
Error 404
Value out of range.
File not found.
Title: Input error
Explanation: Input error detected.
Action: Try again.

A warning message alerts users of a condition that may cause a problem in the future