Understanding error identification

Why clear error identification matters

Errors happen—we all make mistakes. But when digital experiences fail to properly identify and communicate these errors, it can lead to frustration, confusion, and even abandonment. Imagine filling out an important form only to be met with a vague “something went wrong” message. Without clear guidance, how do you know what needs to be fixed?

Error identification ensures that when an input error is detected, the specific issue is clearly highlighted, and a descriptive message is provided to help people understand what went wrong. This is especially crucial for people using assistive technologies, such as screen readers, who rely on precise feedback to navigate digital interfaces. When we prioritize clear error identification, we empower people to correct mistakes efficiently, creating a smoother and more accessible experience.

The impact of effective error identification

Enhancing usability

Clear error messages help everyone navigate forms more effectively, reducing frustration and time spent correcting mistakes. Providing real-time feedback prevents errors before submission, improving the overall user experience.

Promoting accessibility

Ensuring that error messages are perceivable to everyone, including people using assistive technologies, is a key part of digital accessibility. Using multiple indicators—such as text, color, and symbols—ensures errors are understood universally, rather than relying on a single method.

Reducing abandonment rates

If people encounter errors without guidance, they may abandon the process entirely. Well-implemented error messages encourage completion by providing helpful corrections and guiding people through necessary fixes.

Building trust

Meaningful, user-friendly error messages foster trust and confidence in an application or website. When people feel supported and understood, they engage more positively with digital content and are more likely to complete their intended actions.

Assessing error identification in digital experiences

Want to test how well your website or app handles error identification?

Try these:

Fill out a form incorrectly on your website. Are the errors clearly identified?

Use a screen reader to navigate a form with errors. Are the error messages read aloud effectively?

Submit a form without completing required fields. Do the error messages guide you to correct the issue?

How to implement effective error identification

Thoughtful error detection

Avoid overly aggressive real-time validation, as it can be distracting or frustrating, especially for people using assistive technology. Instead, validate input upon form submission or when the user moves away from the field. Providing clear, contextual guidance before errors occur helps prevent mistakes rather than just reacting to them.

Identifying the specific error

Clearly indicate which field contains the error using highlights, borders, or icons. Position error messages near the problematic field to ensure they are easy to find and understand.

Providing descriptive error messages

Use specific and actionable language rather than generic messages. Instead of "error occurred," say "please enter a valid email address in the format: [email protected]." This helps people quickly understand and fix the issue.

Accessibility considerations

Ensure error messages are perceivable by screen readers and assistive technologies. Use sufficient color contrast and avoid using color as the only method of conveying an error. Include ARIA attributes where necessary to assist with error communication.

Testing and continuous improvement

Regularly test error messages with people, including those with disabilities. Gather feedback to refine messaging and improve usability. Testing across different assistive technologies and devices ensures accessibility for a wide range of people.

Evaluating error messages in digital products

Take a moment to think about how error identification impacts digital experiences:

Have you ever struggled to complete a form due to unclear error messages? How did it affect your experience?

How does your website or application currently handle error identification? Could it be improved?

What steps can you take to ensure error messages are accessible to all people?

Write down your thoughts or discuss them with someone to deepen your understanding of accessibility.

Action plan for strengthening error identification

Applying what you’ve learned

Audit a form on your website or application to see if errors are clearly identified. Make at least one improvement to how error messages are displayed.

Sharing the knowledge

Teach a colleague or friend about effective error identification practices. Post an accessibility tip on social media about the importance of clear error messages.

Keeping learning

Follow accessibility advocates and resources to stay updated on best practices. Attend an accessibility-focused training or webinar to deepen your knowledge.

By making small improvements, you can create more inclusive digital experiences where errors are not just obstacles but opportunities for better accessibility and usability.