Presenting a generic empty state, like 'Nothing here yet', confuses and frustrates. Without understanding why the screen is blank, users don't know what to do next. It's crucial to research the context to transform these moments into opportunities for clear engagement and guidance.
Identify user context
An empty state isn't just an absence of content; it's a decision point for the user. Differentiate whether it's a first visit, no search results, an overly restrictive filter, or a loading failure. Each scenario demands a distinct approach. Researching the initial context avoids vague messages and directs the solution, allowing the help offered to be relevant and timely for the user's specific situation.
Understand expectations
Asking what users expected to find or do upon reaching an empty screen is crucial. For example, in a hypothetical 'My Library' section with no files, a new user might expect a clear 'Upload my first document' button. A returning user who applied a filter and got no results might expect options to 'Clear filters' or 'Broaden search'. Aligning the interface with these expectations reduces friction.
Offer clear next steps
Based on context and expectations, provide direct actions. For a first visit, suggest a tutorial or a 'Get Started' button. If a hypothetical search returned no results, offer alternative term suggestions or a link to 'View all items'. In case of a loading failure, inform the problem and offer a 'Try again' option. Clarity in guidance is essential to keep the user active and productive.
Check your empty state
- Does the empty state differentiate a first visit from no search results?
- Does it suggest clear actions aligned with user expectations?
- Does the message explain why the screen is empty and how to fill it?
Begin mapping your product's empty states, documenting the different scenarios and user expectations for each. Use these findings to develop a plan of contextual messages and actions, transforming frustration into productive and directed interaction.
Your next discovery begins with a question.
Test an idea, observe the experience and bring evidence to your team.
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