‘Page not found’, this is a classic message which from years is a major source of frustration to the web users. When the visitor clicks on the broken link or gets to see the typical 404 page, they instantly with resentment, leave the site without even bothering to check what else the website has to offer. Finding themselves in a wrong place may make users feel aggravated or disheartened but to spice up their experience and to make the standard error page creative and welcoming, web designers can think ingeniously and pay attention to this error page too. Instead of driving away the visitors, an appealing 404 page can enhance the user experience and compel them to explore other pages of your website. By effectively conveying the message that why the page cannot be found and what they can do subsequently, you can aid the users and make the website user friendly. Give a refreshing and dynamic look to the monotonous error page.
How to correct the error page?
The typically generated HTTP 404 error page not only looks boring but it looks as if the user has committed some major technical error which cannot be corrected. However a simple, friendly and creative approach would make the error clear and solvable. You can customize the page and give it a fresh look. Instead of using technical terms, use simple language which is easily understood by the users and convert the error into a positive experience. You can make the page look dramatic or witty by adding some suitable visual elements. You can either use droll animation, enticing graphics or relevant photography that smartly expresses the error message. You can reflect your design style and make this page look interesting and endearing. You can use easy and funny terms to explain the error. Even if the searched page is not found, the user should still feel connected with the site. Follow a minimalistic approach, don’t overdo with the design.
How to make the 404 error page more useful?
Simply telling ‘page not found’ will not help the users; they will be keen to know how to correct the error and what to do next. You should design the page as useful as possible or else the users would straightaway take an exit from the website. Add variety of factors that will assist the users.
Search form: To make your web visitors stay at your site, you can add a search form to this 404 page and help the visitors to continue with their search.
Add list of popular pages of your website: You can cheer up your disheartened web visitors by offering list of popular pages. If they fail to find what they were searching for they can anyway explore the other pages and be involved with the website.
Redirect to your homepage: If nothing else can be added, then link to the homepage would definitely work in your favor. You can redirect the visitors to the homepage and let them explore the site.
Spend some extra time in designing this error page and transform the mind-numbing 404 page into 100 percent useful and fascinating page.
