In the world of user experience (UX) design, even the most meticulously crafted interfaces encounter bumps in the road. That’s where empty states and error displays come in — those screens users see when things don’t go according to plan. Believe it or not, these seemingly insignificant elements can make a big difference in user experience.

Why Empty States & Error Displays Matter:

  • Preventing Frustration: Clear and helpful messages on empty states and error displays can prevent users from feeling lost or confused.
  • Maintaining Engagement: A well-designed empty state can encourage users to take further action, while a humorous error message can even maintain a positive user experience.
  • Building Trust: Professional and informative displays show users that you’ve considered all scenarios and are there to guide them.

Designing Effective Empty States & Error Displays:

  • Clarity is Key: Keep your message concise and easy to understand.
  • Offer Solutions: Provide helpful suggestions to get users back on track, whether it’s a call to action or a link to relevant information.
  • Maintain Brand Voice: Even in error situations, let your brand personality shine through in a way that’s consistent and reassuring.
  • Consider Visuals: Use illustrations or icons to add a touch of personality and break up text.

Examples & Inspiration:

To spark your creativity, we’ve included a few resources to inspire your empty state and error display design:

Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones:

By taking the time to design effective empty states and error displays, you can ensure that even when things go wrong, the user experience remains positive and productive. These well-crafted elements can build trust with your users and demonstrate your commitment to a seamless user journey.

Stay tuned!