Warning message

Why use this pattern?

Use a warning message when you need to warn users about something important. For example,

• why an answer they have chosen makes them ineligible to proceed; and
• how legal consequences of an action or lack of action will affect them.

When to use a warning message

Highlight the field that caused the warning. Describe the problem and how to fix it in a warning summary at the top of the screen.

Use standard messages for different form field types. For example, a radio button field and a select field should use the same standard message.

You can show warning messages:

• when users select or tab to a field;
• as they are typing; and
• when they move away from a field.

How it works

For each warning:

• explain why we cannot accept the entry or selection;
• tell them what to do next;
• include a way to leave the transaction;
• use an orange border to visually connect the message and the form field it belongs to; and
• put the message in orange at the top of the screen in a warning summary.

Summarize all warnings at the top of the screen the user is on using a warning summary.

Example

Form field label

Are you or have you been registered as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Yukon?

Warning message

As you aren't or haven't been registered, you cannot proceed with this application. There may be other ways to apply.