[Day 14] Daily UX Writing Challenge: Unknown Error

Scenario: A user is shopping using a price comparison app that boasts “real-time” pricing on items. As they are checking the price of an item, something goes wrong. The problem is unknown.

Challenge: Write a message that informs the user that they cannot access the app right now. You cannot specify “why” the app doesn’t work, you also want them to continue using the app.

Headline: 30 characters max

Body: 120 characters max

Button(s): 15 characters max

Gathering The Context

Based on the challenge, here is the list of information to convey

• The app can’t show the real-time price of an item
• The reason for this error is unknown
• Ask users to keep using the app

This one will be a bit frustrating because we can’t clearly state the cause of this problem. But one thing is for sure, the copy should empathize with users and persuade them to stay on the app.

Crafting The Copy

Maaf, harga belum tersedia.

Untuk sementara harga real-time produk ini belum tersedia. Kamu bisa mengecek produk lain atau kembali lagi nanti.

Kembali || Cek Produk Lain

Rationalization

Tone: Casual, semi-formal

Since this error message can make users disappointed, I empathized with them by apologizing first before stating the error. To assure users that this is a non-permanent error, I clearly said “sementara”. I also persuade them to continue using the app by suggesting users check other products or come back to this page later.

There, a CTA button was added to encourage users to take further action.

Final Copy

Thanks for reading. I’d be happy if you were willing to give me some feedback. Let’s connect through LinkedIn!

Also, check this out!

| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10 | Day 11 | Day 12 | Day 13 | Day 14 |