How to show compulsory fields on a windows form

Question

How should I show users which fields are compulsory in a windows forms application.

I have considered changing the label color or maybe the background color of the text box.

I use an error provider to show a red exclamation mark next to the field, however this is only visible after they have clicked the save button.

Answer 1

• Asterisk or icon to the side of control
• Red border when required validation fails (when user tries to save)
• Bold Labels
• Different background color for required controls (perhaps only when user tries to save)

Answer 2

Yellow background would make it similar to many web forms. No idea whether there are any standards for Windows per se, though if there are I doubt they are widely used.

Answer 3

Use the errorprovider extension control.

This places a red cross next to the control with a tooltip message.

Answer 4

I would use the ErrorProvider control, possibly with a different icon to represent "required" as opposed to "in error". I would also ensure the fields start with error icon shown next to them and the icon should only disappear once data has been provided for that field.

Only doing validation/notification of missing data when the user tries to save seems way too late.

Answer 5

Something to consider is what users are accustomed to seeing for required fields. While not graphically spectacular, placing a simple asterisk next to required field is a very ubiquitous solution.