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Parts of an ONS webpage Warnings

Warnings highlight limitations that affect how users interpret the data, analysis or methods in a release. They are displayed in bold text and are preceded by an exclamation mark symbol. 

They prevent the misuse of data, with minimal interruption to the content. However, using too many warnings, or including too much detail, distracts users. 

View an example of a warning in a statistical article (opens in a new tab) 

Important information:

The content design team can help you to write short, effective warnings. Email content.design@ons.gov.uk (opens in a new tab) 

How to use a warning

Do:

  • keep warnings short and clear to help users retain the information – use around 30 to 40 words and plain language (opens in a new tab)  
  • give users explicit instructions or advice; not just “treat with caution” 
  • include one warning in the Overview section if the information is essential to all users to correctly use the data or statistics  
  • include further warnings in the Detailed analysis sections but only when they have a direct effect on how users interpret the content around them 

Do not:

  • use warnings too often or place warnings next to each other, as they overwhelm users 
  • use a warning immediately before or after a table, chart or diagram 
  • provide definitions in warnings; include these in the definitions section of your page 
  • include hyperlinked text, except for a single link to more detailed information in the supporting quality and methods guide 
Important information:

Include an optional How to use these statistics section if users need to understand multiple quality caveats or limitations quickly before getting to the data and analysis. This is easier for them to find and understand than several warnings throughout the page.

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