Messages
Messages lets you read what your manager sent you and reply — right from your Workstation tablet.
Why it matters
Your manager doesn't always catch you on the shop floor. Messages gives them a direct way to reach you — a heads-up about a job, a schedule change, a question — without a personal phone number involved. You read it and reply from the same tablet you already clock in on.
How it works
When your manager sends you a message, it shows up in your Messages tab. A small number badge appears next to Messages in your navigation so you know something's waiting — it clears once you actually open and read the thread.
You can reply from the same screen. Your manager sees your reply the next time they check their inbox.
Where to find it
- Page: Workstation — Messages
- What to look for: a navigation item with an unread count badge when there's something new
- Who can use it: any worker on a Workstation device, when your shop has turned messaging on
What you'll see
Your thread
One running conversation between you and your shop's managers — there's no separate inbox or list of conversations, just your thread. Each message shows who sent it and when.
The unread badge
A number next to Messages in your navigation shows how many messages you haven't read yet. It clears as soon as you open the tab and actually look at the thread.
The reply box
A text box at the bottom of the thread. Type your message and tap Send.
What to do
- Open Messages when you see the badge.
- Read what your manager sent.
- Reply if you need to — tap the text box, type your message, and tap Send.
Common questions
Q: Does my message go anywhere besides FabWise?
A: No. Messages stay on the shop tablet — nothing is texted or emailed to anyone.
Q: Can I message another worker?
A: No. Messages only connects you with your shop's managers and admins, not other workers.
Q: Will I get an alert when my manager sends a message?
A: There's no pop-up or sound — messages arrive quietly. Watch for the number badge next to Messages in your navigation; that's how you know something new is waiting.
Q: Why is the badge still showing after I glanced at the tab?
A: The badge clears when you actually open Messages and interact with the thread — a quick glance while the tablet wakes on its own won't clear it.
Q: Can I edit or delete a message after I send it?
A: No. Once sent, a message stays as written. If you need to correct something, send a follow-up message.
Related
- [Turn On Notifications](notifications.md)
Last updated: 2026-07-03