Use Actionable Error Messages to Unblock Users
Actionable error messages in Business Central, introduced in 2023 release wave 2 (this is a clip from that launch video). Apps should be designed so users can unblock themselves in context at the field level, for example by refreshing the page or accepting the recommended actions. This ties to the onboarding framework's goal of removing friction, and partners and developers are pointed to the productivity features session and Microsoft Learn.
- Introduction to actionable error messages
- Onboarding framework and friction reduction
- Improved error handling and actionable errors
- Resources and documentation
Overview
The video argues for designing actionable error messages into apps so users can resolve problems themselves instead of being stuck. It links this to the onboarding framework, where a main goal has been to remove as much friction as possible and avoid blocking users from a successful start with Business Central.
It describes improved error handling that gives users an easier way to unblock themselves in context, at the field level, through recommended actions such as refreshing the page or accepting suggested fixes. The video closes with pointers to resources and documentation.
Key points
- Design actionable error messages into your apps so users can unblock themselves and you can avoid support calls.
- Actionable errors were introduced with improved error handling in 2023 release wave 2; the clip is described as still relevant today.
- Errors are shown in context at the field level.
- Recommended actions mentioned include refreshing the page and accepting the recommended actions.
- A main goal of the onboarding framework is to remove as much friction as possible and avoid blocking users from a successful start.
- Partners and developers can learn how to use these patterns in the session on productivity features in the client, on Microsoft Learn and at aka.ms/BCOnboarding.
Features
Every feature below: status not stated.
Quotes
- 0:00 “the importance of Designing actionable error messages into your apps so users can unblock themselves”
- 0:20 “one of our main goals with the onboarding framework has been to remove as much friction as possible”
- 0:40 “providing an easier way for users to unblock themselves in context at the field level”
- 1:00 “to learn more about actionable errors and how you as a partner can or developer can leverage these new patterns”
Presenters (as heard): Sarah.