The Challenge

In my Visual Literacy and User Experience class for my Master’s program at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, I was assigned the task of creating a unique 404 page. Recognizing that typical 404 pages can be frustrating and result in lost engagement, I aimed to design a page that would leave a lasting impression and keep users engaged with the website.

A Humorous Solution

Choosing to create a 404 page for Dapper Dads, a fictional company catering to fashionable clothing for dads, I decided to alleviate the frustration of a missing page with humor and seamless navigation. Through careful Photoshopping, I created an image of a fatherly gentleman named Mike, caught off guard in a bathrobe, as if the user had unintentionally stumbled upon him changing. This humorous and self-deprecating approach not only conveyed the accidental encounter but also maintained the brand identity of Dapper Dads.

Original images used for my photoshop composite

Reinforcing the Joke

Rather than using traditional copy for a 404 page, I reinforced the comedic narrative in the copy making a connection between the missing page content and Mike’s missing clothes. By infusing the page with humor and a touch of wit, I aimed to create an enjoyable experience even in the face of frustration.

Facilitating Navigation

To ensure a smooth user experience, I included a simple and prominent button that guided users back to a more desirable shopping experience. This intuitive navigation element helped redirect users and alleviate any potential frustration caused by the missing page.

Outcome

The 404 page was well-received by my classmates and the professor, who praised the use of humor and the overall user experience. While it was not implemented on a live site, the project helped me to think creatively about how to improve user experience by planning for unexpected or unfavorable situations.