What makes a good error message graphic

Most apps fail the moment an error pops up. Users hit a wall and feel dumb or frustrated. Zeno Rocha’s graphic nails how to turn that moment into something helpful instead of painful.

The lesson: Error messages are micro customer service moments

Good ones do five things:

• Say what happened in plain language
• Explain why it happened
• Provide reassurance so users don’t panic
• Give a way out (Cancel or Retry)
• Help them fix it or contact support

Why it works

• Reduces user anxiety and friction
• Builds trust by owning the problem
• Keeps the tone human, not robotic
• Maintains product momentum—no dead ends

Examples

• Slack says “We’re having trouble connecting” with a “Reconnect” button
• Google Docs autosaves and reassures you mid-error
• Shopify tells you what failed in checkout and how to fix it instantly