Purpose
To standardize the handling of interaction states (Empty, Loading, Success, Error, Permission) across all flows and screens, ensuring designs are resilient, predictable, and developer-ready.
Why This Matters
- Users don’t just see the “ideal” flow → they encounter delays, errors, and access issues.
- Missing states = broken experience, frustrated users, costly dev clarifications.
- This framework makes state coverage mandatory, not optional.
Interaction-State Coverage Matrix
| State Type | Definition | Examples in Product | Design Considerations |
| Empty State | When no data/content is available yet | Empty dashboard, “no results found” | Use friendly text, guidance (“Add your first project”), simple illustrations |
| Loading State | System fetching/processing data | Dashboard fetching tasks | Skeleton screens, spinners with clear messaging (“Loading your tasks…”) |
| Success State | Desired outcome completed | Form submission, task created | Show confirmation, reinforce next action (“Invite your team”) |
| Error State | Action/system failed | Payment failed, API timeout | Clear error message, retry option, support link |
| Permission State | User lacks required access/role | Non-admin opening admin settings | Explain restriction, suggest next step (e.g., “Contact admin”) |
Implementation Process
- At the Flow Drafting Stage
- For each step, ask: “What happens if data = empty? Loading? Error?”
- Add state notes into the UX Flow Diagram.
- At Wireframe Stage
- Create multi-state wireframe variants (Doc 3.7).
- Label clearly (Empty / Loading / Success / Error / Permission).
- At Design QA Stage
- Validate that all states exist and follow guidelines.
- Use the Interaction-State Coverage Checklist (part of QA).
Usage Notes
- Always show at least one example screen per state in Figma.
- Keep messaging consistent (e.g., same tone for all error states).
- Avoid dead ends → every state must suggest an action (retry, invite, contact support).
- Coordinate with devs to ensure state handling aligns with backend responses.
Outcome: No UX flow goes live with missing states, ensuring predictable, resilient experiences that reduce user frustration and dev rework.