Studies that focus on message design and message characteristics generally focus on how design choices impact interpretation. Results from these studies find that color use, icons, and the use of bolding and all caps in text can draw attention to certain parts of the messages. Beyond specific message design choices, having a close relationship with partners is key to effective message communication. Finally, the types of information that people need can vary over the event timeline. For example, chance (or likelihood) information was shown to be important days before the event, then severity and timing information was important on the day of a severe weather event. Finally, multiple studies find that people benefit from having protective action information in the minutes before the tornado impacts an area, especially those who are less familiar with tornadoes. These studies are helping forecasters craft more effective messages that meet the needs of different communities.
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