Messages are communication provided on the screen to the screen viewer. Screen messages fall into two broad categories: system and instructional. System messages are generated by the system to keep the user informed of the system’s state and activities. They are customarily presented within message boxes. They reflect the system state, as it exists at that moment in time. Instructional messages, sometimes referred to as prompting messages, are messages that tell the user how to work with or complete, the screen displayed. They may be provided in message boxes and also within the screen itself.

System message

System message are of several types, each reflecting a different purpose. The various platforms have developed standard message boxes with standard components for different types. Message box elements include a standard icon to assist in fast recognition of message kind, the message itself and standard command buttons.

Common message types are –

1. Status message

A status message is used for providing information concerning the progress of a lengthy operation. It usually contains a progress indicator and a short message describing the kind of operation being performed. It typically only possesses a Cancel button to stop the operation being performed. Pause and Resume buttons may also be included.

2. Information message

Information messages also called notification messages provide information about the state of the system when it is not immediately obvious to the user. They may confirm that non-obvious proceeding is taking place or is completed. They may also be used to provide intermediate feedback when normal feedback is delayed. This kind of message is usually identified by an ‘I’ icon to the left of the message.

3. Warning message

Warning messages call attention to a situation that may be undesirable. They are usually identified by an ‘!’ icon to the left of the message. The user must determine whether the situation is in fact a problem and may be asked to advise the system whether or not to proceed. A deletion request by a user is an action that commonly generates a warning message. When a user requests a deletion, a message asking for confirmation of the deletion is usually presented.

4. Critical message

Critical messages, sometimes called action messages, call attention to conditions that require a user action before the system can proceed. A message describing an erroneous situation is usually presented as a critical message. Some inconsistency currently exists in the icon used to designate this kind of message. Some products use a “Do not” symbol while others use a “Stop” sign. Critical messages require user action to continue.

5. Question message

Question message are another kind of message types. A question message asks a question and offers a choice of options for selection. It is designated by a ‘?’ icon preceding the message text. This type may be used when there is a question to be asked and the message does not appear to be suited to the above types.