It was several years ago when an incredibly smart Apple.com 404 brought my attention to a much-overlooked page in planning websites. Following the metrics, the most important page apart from the homepage in many cases ... Why not integrate it into the site mechanics/ persuasion architecture instead of leaving a standard server message as a major speed bump or even roadblock with its quite technical "404 Not Found".
A quick scan brought up several models in use.
- Ignorant. A dead end server-side "404 Not Found". Use the back button!
- Explanatory and "Your help is appreciated!": Sorry. We couldn't find your document. The file that you requested could not be found on this server. The link you followed might be outdated, inaccurate or temporarly disconnected due to technical problems. If you believe that this link is valid, please send us feedback about the broken link. Thank you.
- Exhaustive. The complete sitemap!
- Simplistic. Return to sender. Return to the homepage (example above).
- Selective. Calls to action. Continue the mechanics from the lost path. Homepage, sitemap, web site wizard, FAQ, help pages, contact ...
View a few examples below. Found other models? Comment!
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