Gmail Error Proofing for Attachments

By Mark Graban On Aug 1, 2007 Last updated Dec 17, 2012

I don't know if this is a new Gmail feature, or if I just discovered it, but there's some nice error proofing built into the web-based mail application. If it detects the word “attached” in an email body, but there's not a file attached, it gives you this pop up message.

This is similar to the the method for error proofing Outlook that I wrote about earlier.

To the left is a fuller screenshot (click for a larger view) of how this looks when composing an email. This is smart design, a good use of technology for error proofing the situation where you forget to attach your file. As with inspections, there are some “false positives,” but the cost is minimal to the user, in terms of wasted time.

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Mark Graban

Mark Graban is an internationally-recognized consultant, author, and professional speaker who has worked in healthcare, manufacturing, and startups. He is author of the Shingo Award-winning books Lean Hospitals and Healthcare Kaizen, as well as The Executive Guide to Healthcare Kaizen. His most recent book is the anthology Practicing Lean that benefits the Louise H. Batz Patient Safety Foundation, where Mark is a board member. Mark is also a Senior Advisor to the technology company KaiNexus. His latest book has been released as an "in-progress" book, titled Measures of Success.

Error Proofing