404s – the error messages that appear when a page on a web site can’t be found – need not be a dead-end for users. Instead, the 404 page should be optimised to signpost users back into your site proper. Or, better still, be avoided as much as possible in the first place.
There are a number of reasons for a site displaying a 404 error. Among these are:
· bookmarked pages that have moved to a different part of the site
· bookmarked pages that have been deleted
· users misspelling a URL
· broken links within a site
· a moved or deleted page that is still indexed
· the page name contains a spelling error
· inconsistent use of .htm and .html on page names
Of these examples, the web site owner only has any control over the last four. So what to do about 404s?
Firstly, 404s are generated by web servers, are generic and not very user-friendly. Internet Explorer now substitutes these messages with a slightly more intelligible message, but web site owners can create their own custom 404 pages in order to retain traffic.
Since generating a custom 404 requires programming knowledge and full server access rights, some web site owners will need to contact their web developer or hosting company to replace the generic error message page. Check web hosting company control panels, though, as there are sometimes scripts you can customise and upload to present your own branded 404 messages. Here, we will confine ourselves to the content of the custom page.
When a user lands on a customised 404 page, it should be clear that it is not part of the site but an error page. Include the term 404 if you wish, but it does not necessarily have to be the first heading on the page. The main thrust of the page should be helping the user find what they are looking for and the means to otherwise navigate back into the site.
The page should be based on the site template by retaining the same colour scheme but have a minimalist look. It is imperative to have links to your home page and site map. A site search box is useful too.
Offer an explanation of the possible causes for the error message, but don’t blame the user. Humorous messages, conversely, are all well and good but aren’t particularly helpful to the user.
Ensure the page size is greater that 512 bytes or Internet Explorer will assume the page is a badly-written server message and automatically replace it with their standard 404 page.
