Every internet user will encounter 404 pages whenever a page does not appear because a site has been moved to a new server, or because that page does not exist. A 404 page will also appear when a web address is incorrectly typed or a bad link is clicked and does not lead to the right content.
When a standard 404 error message appears, this is of little use because it simply states that the page cannot be reached, and gives the possible reasons for this. It does not provide any useful information about where to find what was on that missing page.
By putting some thought into your website’s 404 page design, it is possible to help visitors make use of it in order to find the content they were hoping to view. There is an obvious advantage to your website and your business when visitors are persuaded to continue using the site.
Proper way to do it
Instead of a presenting a disappointing default error message, effective 404 page design can be used to inform visitors why the page is not accessible and what they should do next. When a search box and a resource menu can appear on the same page as the error message, this is far less frustrating for the visitor.
Your 404 message should explain that unfortunately an error or a problem has prevented access and has caused this page to appear instead. You can include a short list of possible reasons why this may have happened.
At the very least, your 404 page should clearly show the website name and company logo, with a link back to the home page or leading to another part of your website. You might also consider providing an email address link, so that you can be contacted.
It is a smart idea also to feature a search engine box, so you can collect data on what visitors where hoping to see and what information they are searching for. This will help you decide which page links to include in future on your 404 page.
Usability is the key, even on 404 pages
Any visitor arriving on a 404 page will be slightly confused, as well as being disappointed not to have reached the right page. Help your 404 page visitors by placing a clear focus on what they need to do next, making it obvious which link they need to click.
You might consider adding some amusing content or funny images, but do remember that these can be distracting and might be confusing to some visitors.
Showcase
You can be creative with your 404 page design, if you do this in a way that will be of benefit to your website and promote your business. Then it can be used as a showcase page, designed to impress anyone who finds it by accident.
It is most important to create a 404 page that will function well, so it provides easy access to your content. It should allow visitors, who have reached it because of an error, to find their way to what they had been expecting to see when they clicked on a link or typed in a web address.
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Conclusion
An error can easily bring up 404 page at any time. When it does happen to your visitors, they should not be presented with an irritating default 404 page message.
Instead your visitors should be made to feel reassured that they can find their way off that page and onto the right page, or to another useful page on your website. A 404 error should not be allowed to prevent someone from viewing your content or stop them using your business website.
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