Dumb Error Messages

It’s important when designing a system that people will interact with (whether it be a website, a DVD player or a washing machine) that you make all feedback and error handling as clear and concise as possible. Something that Agriframes would do well to think about.

I was ordering some stuff for my mums garden the other day, and after filling up my basket went to register so I could complete the transaction. After filling out my details I hit submit…

This set of personal data does not sufficiently guarantee your security.<br />Please click below to try the registration process again.

"What the fuck does that mean?" was the first thing that came to mind. Hmmm, maybe they want a stronger password…

This set of personal data does not sufficiently guarantee your security.<br />Please click below to try the registration process again.

Well that wasn’t it then. Oh wait, have I registered on here before I wonder? Off I toddle to the login area and ask for a password reminder. Sure enough, the cryptic error message meant that they already had my email address on record. 10 mins later my wallet is £70 quid lighter and my mum will be a happy bunny.

Shame about the dumb error message. Still, at least I didn’t have to fill in all my details again.