UX writing challenge: Day 12
Name error message
Scenario: A user is creating an account. When they come to the step where they are asked to enter their name, they get an error message. A fraud detection software thinks their name is fake — but it’s wrong 5% of the time.
Challenge: Write an error message that prompts them to fix the error without shaming them for having a fake-sounding name.
45 characters max
Points to keep in mind
- Use of a calming tone, ensuring not to judge the user.
- The error message needs to be directed towards solving the problem.
- What can be implemented-
⚫Ask the user to verify themselves, through government issued ID or captcha.
⚫Give alternate sign up options. (eg: social media)
⚫Ask them to contact support.
⚫Ask them to review the name for errors.
What I came up with
Idea 1-
The error copy simply states to help the app verify user identity without pointing at the user’s name, which isn’t recognisable by the software.
Error copy- Please help us verify your identity.
Idea 2-
The error copy here points that fraud detecting software isn’t right all the time and has a 5% of chance to make a mistake. Here, Get help acts as a means to solve the problem.
Error copy- 5% of the time we might be wrong. Get help.
*This copy seems to be a bit vague, not in terms of telling what went wrong but in the overall tone of the message and solution. I’ll go with the first idea for the winner in this one, and without text restriction, I’ll go with the second one after modifications.
Feel free to comment with your views on my challenge; criticism is appreciated as it will help me hone my skills 🙌🏻.
Checkout my other challenges —
