Learn How to Implement NetSuite Dialogs and Messages

Ditch the Boring

Years ago, we relied heavily on native window alerts and confirmation dialogs to inform users or gather input. For FYI messages, we used inline HTML fields to create makeshift banners within NetSuite records. However, it’s time to elevate the user experience by leveraging NetSuite’s native features for creating dynamic message banners and dialogs.

Why Boring Dialogs Don’t Cut It

There’s something off about standard dialogs in applications; they feel disconnected from the system and often suggest that user experience hasn’t been prioritized. Traditional alerts can disrupt workflows, leading to frustration rather than clarity.

NetSuite Native Banners

NetSuite offers various types of banners—confirmation, error, information, and warning—accessible via the N/ui/message module. These banners allow users to interact with the page while receiving important updates about background processes.

Benefits of Using Banners

• User Engagement: Unlike traditional alerts, banners allow users to continue working without interruption.
• Real-Time Information: They provide essential updates without breaking the flow of tasks.

You can see these banners in action here: 

• Information → Confirmation Banner
• Information → Error Banner

To test this in your account, I’ve arranged the script with a toggle feature. Simply check the “Simulate Failed Connection” parameter in the Restlet script deployment.

NetSuite Native Dialogs

For scenarios where user input is critical, NetSuite provides dialogs that maintain the NS feel, accessible via the N/ui/dialog module. These customized dialogs enhance interaction and decision-making.

Example of a Customized Confirmation Dialog:

And for comparison, here’s NetSuite’s native alert dialog:

Benefits of Using Dialogs

• User Input: Ideal for situations where the user’s choice affects the next steps in your logic.
• Enhanced Experience: Offers a more integrated and cohesive feel compared to standard alerts.

You can see these dialogs in action here: 

• Confirmation-OK-Success-Dialog
• Confirmation-OK-Fail-Dialog
• Confirmation-Cancel-Dialog

To utilize these dialogs in your account, I’ve included a toggle in the script. Just uncheck the “Use Banner for Message” parameter in the user event script deployment.

Conclusion

By moving away from boring alerts and embracing NetSuite’s customizable banners and dialogs, you can significantly enhance user experience and engagement.

These tools not only make your application more user-friendly but also ensure that important information is communicated effectively.

To see the complete SuiteScript code and implementation details discussed in this article, visit Jona's GitHub repository.