Handling missing data
It can be frustrating and confusing to see no data when viewing a screen. It’s often unclear whether an error has occurred or whether additional setup needs to be performed in some other part of the product.
Null/Empty Fields
In forms, dashboards, and detail screens, if we have no data for a field, show the em dash character as the value. If the value is set but empty, show nothing.
If we are showing data from a table, present the data as accurately as possible. If a field contains a null, write out NULL.
Configuration Needed
If a list of items is empty because the user has not performed some setup or configuration, prompt them to perform the required steps and guide them to the proper location to complete the task. When possible, perform the setup inline without leaving the current screen. If that is prohibitive, provide the user good instructions and point them to the correct screen.
No Results (Good)
If a list of results is empty because the system is working correctly (no alerts, no to-do items, no updates available, etc), show a message reassuring the user that the product is working well and that the empty state is a good sign.
No Results (Filter)
If a list of items is empty and the user has applied one or more filters (including a text search) notify them that no items matched the applied filters.