404-and-empty-state-design

name	404-and-empty-state-design
description	Use when designing 404 pages and the broader empty-state pattern library. Covers tone, illustration, search recovery, and the difference between 'no data yet' and 'this URL doesn't exist'.

404 And Empty State Design

Empty states are pre-content moments. Done well, they guide the user. Done badly, they feel broken.

404 page basics

Headline ('Page not found' — clear). Optional illustration (40-80% of brands include one). Site nav still visible. Primary CTAs: search + 'Go to home' + 'Contact support'.

Empty-state taxonomy

No data yet (new account) · Filter returned nothing · Search returned nothing · Permission denied · Error loading data. Each needs different treatment.

No data yet pattern

Headline ('No drivers yet'). Subtext ('Add your first driver to get started'). Primary CTA. Optional illustration.

Filter empty pattern

Show active filters. 'Clear all filters' button. Optionally 'Try X instead' suggestions.

Common mistakes

404 page that hides the rest of the site. Empty state with no action. Same illustration on every empty state (lazy). Filter empty state that doesn't show what filters are applied.

Where this fits in X3 Compass

Applied in the X3 Compass build via the relevant pages and components.