Errors, warnings and notifications
General rules for messaging
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Three parts of a message: 1. title 2. explanation 3. action
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Title: Name which information or problem may/will occur and where it comes from
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Explanation: Give a clear reason for the (potential) error and explain it’s consequences if the user ignores it
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Action: Add clear instructions telling the user what to do next to resolve the error
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Do not blame the user
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Avoid using you and your only use passive voice as an exception
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Do not repeat your message in title and explanation
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Do not over communicate
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Use … to show an action is required, i.e. Fill this in…
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Use a polite and encouraging tone
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Keep it short
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If detailed information is required, consider using progressive disclosure button
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Provide specific names, locations and values of the objects involved
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Show urgency through wording, e.g. “immediately” only if there are serious consequences from ignoring messages
Error messages
- An error message alerts user of a problem that exists and must be addressed
Warning messages
- A warning message alerts users of a condition that may cause a problem in the future
Notifications
- Notifications are informative and no actions are required from the user