Specifications

MIL-STD- 1472E
5.15.8.3 Internal software checks. User errors should be minimized by use of software checks
of user entries for validity of item, sequence of entry, completeness of entry, and range of value.
5.15.8.4 Critical entries. The system shall require the user to acknowledge critical entries prior
to their being implemented by the system. An explicitly labeled CONFIRM function key, different
from the ENTER key, should be provided for user confirmation of control and data entries that have
been
questioned by the computer.
5. i 5.8.5 Error message content. Error messages shall be constructive and neutral in tone,
avoiding phrases that suggest a judgment of the user’s behavior. T’heerror messages shall reflect the
user’s view, not that of the programmer. Emor messages should be appropriate to the user’s level of
training, be as specific as
possible to the user’s particular application, and describe a way to remedy,
recover, or escape from the error situation.
5.15,8.6 Error recovery
and process change. The user shalJ be
able 10 (a) stop the control
process at any point in a sequence as a result of indicated error or as an option and (b) return easily [o
previous levels in multi-step processes in order to nullify an error or to effect a desired change.
5.15.8.7 DiMnostic information. Error messages shall explicitly provide as much diagnostic
information and remedial direction as can be infen-ed reliably from the error condition. Where clear
inference is not possible, probable helpful inference(s) may be offered.
5.15,8.8 Correction entry and confirmation. When
the user enters correction of an error, such
corrections shall be implemented by an explicit action by the user (e.g., actuation of an ENTER key.)
ANerror corrections by the user shall be acknowledged by the system, either by indicating that a
correct entry has been made or by another error message.
5.15.8.9 Spelling errors Spelling and other common errors shall not produce v~id system
commands or initiate transactions different tim those intended. When possible, the system shall
recognize common misspellings of commands and execute the commands as if spding had been
correct. Computer-cxxmxted commands, values, and spellings shall be displayed and highlighted for
user confirmation.
5.15.8.10 Errors in stacked commands. To prompt for
comctions of an error in stacked
commands, the
system shaJl display the stacked sequence with the error highlighted. Where possible,
a procedure shall be provided to cmrwt the error and salvage the stack.
5.15.8.11 Disl.dayof erroneous entries. A computer-detected error, as well as the enor
message, shall be continuously displayed until the error is corrected.
5.15.8,12 ~. In addition to explicit emor management aids, (labels, prompts, advisory
messages) and implicit aids (cueing), users should be able to obtain further on-line guidance by
requesting HELP. Following the output of a simple error message, users should be permitted to
request a mom detailed discussion at levels of increasing detail.
5.15 .8.12.1 Standard action to request HELP. A simple, standard action that is always
avaiiabie should be provided to request HELP.
5, J5.H.J2,2 Multilevel HELP. When an
initial HELP display provides only summary
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HELP.