Make it bigger, at least three times bigger maybe.
Or make the icon/image for it be much more prominent so it stands out.
Or maybe that whole line/area where the icon shows up on the order could have
a yellow background when their is an message.
Or maybe use a big yellow exclamation mark that is bigger then what current icon/image
is now might be better. Just anything so it "pops" and become easily noticeable
if there is a message.
I can't tell you how much I hate missing a message because I rely on this icon
but it's so easy to overlook since it is so small and blends into the background.
And while I know it's ultimately up to me to make sure I check for messages when
I get the order. Some times those messages can be easily overlooked also when
the buyer just leaves a 2 or 3 word comment, especially when they are found at
the bottom of the order.
I can't tell you how much I hate missing a message because I rely on this icon
but it's so easy to overlook since it is so small and blends into the background.
Or make it flashing? It'd have to be an option with user preference as not everyone
would like it.
Flash message icon when you have new message: [ ] yes [ ] no