Introduction
Common actions frequently appear across different WIC features and products. For platform consistency, these actions need to be described consistently. Actions are described using clear, compelling verbs and a few adjectives to drive users to take a specific action.
These verbs are most commonly used in:
- Headlines and titles that are instructive. See dialog
- Buttons always lead with a strong verb that encourages action. See button
- Links if the link leads to a page with a task. For example, share your feedback.
- Menu items also start with a strong verb to encourage action. See menu button
We have a relatively large number of actions/verbs in the Admin Console to allow us to specifically describe the actions admins need to take.
Choosing the right action
Some actions seem similar, but have important differences. These distinctions will help you choose the correct action.
Other common action verbs
Activate - Turn on an item. This is a visible, binary choice paired with deactivate.
Block - Automatically deny access to resources when a user fails MFA. Users can’t create new session but if they're able to provide the right credentials, they can still access apps.
Click - Use if needed when telling users what action to take, particularly if referencing a button. Ideally, use a call to action that explains the CTA or interaction itself. See related term tap.
Close - Terminates the current page, window, or menu. Close is also used to dismiss information, such as notifications. Use the close icon, which is typically placed on the upper right side of the element. Don’t use close in a button.
Choose - Use sparingly as a synonym for select, if text content is becoming very repetitive.
Copy - Create a new, identical instance of the selected object. Use instead of clone or duplicate.
Configure - Set up for operation or use, especially in a particular or customized way. For example, Configure Active Directory.
Deactivate - Turn off an item. This is a visible, binary choice paired with activate. Not a synonym of remove, where the item still exists in the database to be restored, but isn’t visible.
Download - Transmitting data, or a file, over a network from a server to user device or between devices. For example, Download report.
Edit - Use to indicate that data or values can be changed. Use edit in a menu or as a button or icon to trigger this state change.
Log in - Use instead of sign in when required by the source. For example, log in to the server.
Preview - Inspect or check before implementing or enabling. Preview is usually one of several options available in an actions menu.
Reset - Use when a user doesn’t know the information that is being replaced. For example, Reset your password.
Run - Execute a command or process. For example, run a workflow.
Select - Make a decision or choice from a set number of similar options.
Sign in - Securely access an app with a set of user credentials. Use to align with Sign-In Widget.
Resources
For more on Okta’s terminology, visit the product glossary.
Have questions or need support?
Introducing an action? Please share your terminology with @content in the #Odyssey channel.