Fix Microsoft Viva Actionable Message Buttons Not Working in Outlook
Question details
Users are unable to use actionable message buttons (like Done, Approve, or Comment) in Microsoft Viva and Outlook, often encountering signature validation errors.

- Product
- Microsoft Outlook
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Interacting with Viva actionable message cards in the Outlook reading pane.
- Observed behavior
- Actionable message buttons fail to respond, do not appear on the web version, or display a 'Failed to validate the signature of actionable message card' error.
Before troubleshooting, check your internet connection and verify if the issue persists across both the Outlook desktop application and Outlook on the web.
Close Open Actionable Message Cards
Resolve rendering conflicts caused by having too many actionable message cards open simultaneously in Outlook.
According to Microsoft support, Outlook can encounter rendering issues and signature validation errors when multiple actionable messages are active at the same time.
Check your Outlook reading pane and any open standalone email windows for existing actionable message cards.
Close or navigate away from all other open actionable message cards. Outlook may fail to render buttons if five or more cards are open concurrently.
Return to the specific Viva actionable message you need to interact with and try clicking the action buttons again.

Update Outlook and Test Across Platforms
Rule out client-specific bugs by verifying the message behavior on different Outlook platforms and ensuring your app is up to date.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Management
While Microsoft Viva and Actionable Messages are specific to the Outlook ecosystem, you might be looking for a lightweight, stable, and completely free alternative for your core document workflows. WPS Office provides excellent compatibility with Microsoft Office formats without the heavy system requirements or complex feature conflicts.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free, lightweight installation package.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your device.
- 3. Open Microsoft Formats: Easily open, edit, and save your existing Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without any formatting issues.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I get a 'Failed to validate the signature' error in Outlook?
This error typically occurs when there is a rendering conflict or a security certificate mismatch with the actionable message card. Closing other open actionable cards and updating Outlook usually resolves the issue.
What is the maximum number of actionable messages I can have open?
According to Microsoft Support, Outlook may fail to render actionable messages properly if you have five or more actionable message cards open simultaneously.
Why are the Viva buttons missing in Outlook on the web?
Missing buttons on the web version could be caused by browser cache issues, ad blockers, or temporary Microsoft server outages. Try clearing your browser cache, disabling extensions, or switching to the desktop app to verify.




