Empty
State
Design
Empty states are a powerful SaaS activation tool. Learn how to design empty screens that explain, guide and get users to take action.
What Is an Empty State?
Quick answer: an empty state is what users see when a screen has no data yet, such as a new project list or an inbox with no messages. Designed well, it explains what belongs there and helps users add it. Empty states appear most often for new users, which makes them one of the most important moments for activation. Empty states are also a chance to teach. A short line explaining what the feature does can be more useful than a separate help article.
There are three common types: first use, user-cleared, such as an empty inbox, and no results from a search or filter. Use the empty state to show what success looks like, such as a preview of a populated dashboard.
SaaS Design
UI/UX
What a Good Empty State Includes
A short headline that says what this space is for, a sentence on why it matters, and one clear action, such as create your first project. A simple illustration or icon can add personality, as long as it does not distract from the action. Write in a friendly, helpful tone that matches your brand voice.
For complex products, offer sample data or a template so users can explore before they commit their own data. For search results, suggest fixes: check spelling, clear filters or browse popular items. Consider permissions. Some users may not be able to take the main action, so offer an alternative, like asking an admin.
Mistakes to Avoid
Do not leave screens completely blank or show a bare message like no data. Do not overload empty states with several competing buttons. One primary action works best. Test empty states on mobile, where space is limited and the action needs to be easy to tap.
Review every screen of your product in its empty state as part of each design cycle. Kites Design covers these details in every product design request. Track how many users take the suggested action from each empty state, and improve the ones with low engagement.
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