User eXperience

Mastering Empty States: A Comprehensive Guide to UX Design in Complex Applications and Fintech

Hey there! Let's dive into the world of Empty States in UX design, especially when it comes to SaaS and Fintech apps.

Imagine these empty spaces as a chance to really shine in guiding users. We're talking about turning these blank spots into goldmines for improving how users get around and understand your app. By focusing on what users need and offering clear directions, empty states become super helpful.

Mastering Empty States in UX Design

Think of empty states like an artist's blank canvas, ready to be turned into something amazing. For complex apps in SaaS and Fintech, hitting an empty state is a big moment for users. It's our job as designers to make sure this moment counts, guiding them smoothly and making the app more user-friendly. This means using empty states to give users a nudge in the right direction, making everything clearer and easier.

The Power of Guidance

Empty states are our chance to give users a hand. Whether it’s through handy tips, explanations, or examples, these moments can quietly teach users how to move through the app without a hitch. Using simple language and intuitive design, we can turn these empty moments into informative signposts, making the app more engaging and satisfying.

Boosting Experience with Interactivity

Sprucing up empty states with some interactive bits, like clickable buttons or mini-tutorials, can really kick the user experience up a notch. These elements not only clear up any confusion but also spotlight how user-friendly and well-thought-out the app is. This leaves a lasting impression on users and ramps up their satisfaction.

Contra platform, help to get started with a clear Call to Action i the center of the page
Contra platform, help to get started with a clear Call to Action i the center of the page

Understanding Empty States in Complex Apps

In the maze of SaaS and Fintech platforms, empty states are like secret tools for making user navigation a breeze. Without clear guidance, these blank moments could baffle users, causing frustration.

But, by laying out clear markers and easy-to-follow instructions, we ensure users know exactly what to do. These touchpoints are key to boosting the user experience.

Key Points of Empty States

  • Guidance: Empty states are perfect moments to guide users on their next steps.
  • Usability: By adding interactive touches, we can make the app more engaging.
  • Communication: Clear and concise messages in empty states help users grasp their purpose quickly.

Optimizing Interaction

We can jazz up empty states to encourage users to explore and interact. By weaving in gentle nudges, we can prompt users towards specific actions. These elements not only aid in navigation but also enhance user satisfaction and the learning curve. With finely tuned empty states, users feel supported and confident, leading to a positive experience all around.

Making Fintech Empty States Awesome

Why Empty States Matter in Fintech Apps

Hey there! You know those empty spots in fintech apps, like when you haven't added any info yet? They're golden chances to make using the app smoother and smarter. Instead of leaving users hanging, these moments can guide them, show helpful hints, and make complex money stuff feel like a breeze. Making these spots useful and clear can really make users happy and keep them coming back for more.

Tips to Rock Fintech Empty States

  • Chat With Them: Use messages that feel personal and tie into what they're doing financially. It helps users get the hang of things fast.
  • Make It Click: Pop in some buttons or hints that nudge them to dive in and do more. It's all about making them feel at home.
  • Show the Way: Bright icons or colors can point out the next steps, making it super clear where to go or what to do next.
Wise empty state clearly state how to open an account
Wise empty state clearly state how to open an account

Boosting Engagement

When you tweak these empty spaces just right for fintech apps, users feel like they've got a financial buddy in their corner. Smart design and messages that get them can ease decision-making and action-taking. It's about crafting moments that welcome and reassure users, making the whole experience a positive one.

Up Your App's Game With Empty States

Why Designing Empty States Rocks

In the world of apps, especially ones dealing with finances, those "empty" moments are your secret weapon. They're your chance to guide users with clear steps and pointers, turning a potentially confusing space into a helpful nudge forward. By focusing on making these moments informative and easy to navigate, you're setting up your app to be more user-friendly and intuitive.

Making the Most of Empty States

  • Talk Clearly: Keep messages short and sweet but full of info on what to do next.
  • Spotlight the Important Stuff: Use design to highlight key actions or info, making it super easy for users to know where to look.
  • Invite Interaction: Elements that invite users to click, tap, or explore make the app more lively and engaging.
Revolut empty states help the user on what action to take to explore the banking app
Revolut empty states help the user on what action to take to explore the banking app

Crafting Engaging Experiences

Creating empty states that truly speak to and guide users can turn a simple app interaction into an engaging journey. With visuals that draw the eye, interactive touches that invite action, and messages that feel just for them, designers can make users feel supported and confident. This not only makes the app easier to use but also builds trust and satisfaction, keeping users around longer.


Let's talk about making empty spaces in apps, especially in SaaS and Fintech, really work for your users. It's all about making things clear, helpful, and engaging. When you focus on what your users need and expect, you can turn those empty spots into useful guides that make your app easier to get and use. Here's the scoop on doing it right:

Keep It Simple and Clear

  • Make it simple: Keep your messages and designs in empty spaces super clear and straightforward. No confusion, no hassle.
  • Make it relevant: Your empty spaces should match what your user is doing right then. It shows you're paying attention.
  • Keep it consistent: Use the same style and vibe across all empty spots. It makes your app feel like one smooth journey.

Smart Moves for Awesome Empty Spaces

Put these ideas into action, and you'll create paths that guide your users naturally through your app.

Use smart tips, helpful messages, and suggestions that fit them to boost their experience and keep them engaged. When empty spaces fit the look and feel of your app and give users the info they need, they're more likely to enjoy using your app and keep coming back for more.