Best UX for blocking users from using a form twice

Question

I'm designing an application experience and looking for the best UX practices. Here's the scenario:

1. User submits the form and gets their results immediately on the next screen + emailed to them. Results do not change for 1 month, users are informed of that.
2. In a week, the same user is back using the form. They either forgot that they submitted it earlier or are trying to "cheat the system" and get a different result. When they submit, they get the same results they saw the first time they submitted.

The application is made up of three parts: Landing page, Form, and Results page.

My question: at what point do I remind the user that they have used this tool recently and results will not change for a full month from the first application?

• do I block the user from submitting the form.
• do I display a reminder message on the results page saying something along the lines of "you submitted earlier, try again on x date for different results".
• do nothing and just display the same results as the first time.
• Give users a retrieve button on the landing page where they can add their email.

Thanks!

Answer 1

If the user has already filled out the form, visiting the site a second time doesn't require them to view the form again. A message on the main page thanking them very much for the new visit would suffice with a "very small bottom text" clarifying the reasons why the form is not active/visible at that moment and probably a countdown.

With this simple action, you avoid: blocking the user, something with always negative results towards the site, displaying a reminder message with explanations, or adding an extra function to the page.

In any case, a viewer of the delivered form or/and a download button in any visible file format

Answer 2

Be friendly and let the user know that they're done, and what they can do next, without placing blame. If they came back in error, they're receiving a friendly reminder.

If they're trying to game the system, they're still not able to proceed, and you're still being polite. If you want to be really nice, you could add a "Remind me" link and send them an email (or a calendar invitation) on the date the job opens to them again, but you've stated that it's not important to help the user try again. A reminder might prompt them to apply for a job that's a better fit at your company, or share with a friend - just some things to consider.

You can also use a dashboard to help applicants keep track of their statuses, like Submittable does here, which can cut down on people applying in error.