>>>is there any way to make the text flash WITHOUT using the timer
>>>
>>>alternatively is there any way to make the title bar flash OR change colours without using the TIMER
>>>
>>>my problem in using the timer is that it slows down the program.
>>
>>Never use flashing on forms. It is very annoying and tiring to users and goes against Windows design guidelines.
>>
>>Use another means of highlighting, like different colors (foreground/background).
>
>I always wonder why anti-collision beacon lights on the planes or on the tall ground objects do not follow Windows gudelines? :)
>
>I said many times here that I do not agree with the guidelines that go against the common sense. :) Since the light bulb invention, the flashing signals are used everywhere in the *real* (not Windows interfaces - i.e. - airplane cockpits, various warning lights everywhere you can imagine. Their purpose is to annoy, draw attention and call for immediate response. Sure, one should not to abuse the flashing signals whether it's in the cockpit or on Windows screen and have the good reasons to use them. But I never say *never*... :)

Nick,

I have to agree with you 100% here. After all these are only GUIDELINES!

I remember when I couldn't change the background color of a VFP command button and was told that it was not a good idea to do so, blah, blah, blah. Isn't it funny how VFP now let's us do exactly this. If it is such a bad idea, why did M$ even think of giving us developers this capability. Heck, even VB at that time could do it.

I must admit that in the wrong hands, the use of certain color combinations, fonts, effects, etc. can be a disaster for users, but, in those cases, I'm sure that the programmer / designer will hear about it. I perfer to have the ability and freedom to make "ugly" interfaces than be always forced to do things the M$ way.

Mike