Error
Definition
An error in the context of user experience (UX) is defined as an unintended action or incorrect result that disrupts a user's interaction with a product or service. Errors can occur due to various factors, including user misunderstanding, system flaws, or design oversights. Recognizing and addressing these errors is crucial for creating an effective and user-friendly experience.
In UX design, errors are typically categorized into different types, such as input errors (where users enter incorrect data), system errors (technical failures), and user errors (mistakes made by users due to unclear instructions). Understanding these categories helps UX professionals develop strategies to minimize their occurrence and impact.
Errors not only affect user satisfaction but can also significantly impact conversion rates and overall product success. An effective error management strategy involves not only identifying errors but also analyzing their root causes, improving communication, and providing appropriate feedback to users.
Expanded Definition
The concept of errors in UX is rooted in the understanding that users are not always perfect and that systems must accommodate possible mistakes. Historically, UX design has evolved from a focus solely on aesthetics to a more comprehensive approach that includes usability and error management. This shift is essential for ensuring that products are not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly.
Incorporating error handling within the design process can lead to improved user experiences. This includes designing intuitive interfaces, offering clear error messages, and providing helpful recovery options. By doing so, designers can transform potential frustrations into opportunities for user engagement.
Key Activities
Conducting usability testing to identify common user errors.
Implementing error message frameworks to guide users toward resolution.
Analyzing error metrics to improve product design and functionality.
Creating user training materials to reduce input errors.
Iterating on designs based on user feedback regarding errors.
Benefits
Enhanced user satisfaction through reduced error rates.
Improved conversion rates by minimizing user frustration.
Better product usability and accessibility.
More effective user education and onboarding.
Increased user retention and loyalty.
Example
For instance, an e-commerce website may experience high cart abandonment rates due to an unclear error message when users try to checkout with an invalid payment method. By redesigning the checkout process to provide clear guidance and feedback, such as indicating the specific issue with the payment method, the website can reduce errors and improve the overall user experience.
Use Cases
Designing forms that minimize input errors by using real-time validation.
Creating onboarding tutorials that guide new users through complex features.
Implementing error tracking and reporting tools to analyze user interaction data.
Developing responsive error messages that help users recover from mistakes.
Conducting A/B testing to compare error rates across different designs.
Challenges & Limitations
Balancing between user autonomy and error prevention can be difficult.
Over-simplifying error messages may lead to user confusion.
Technical limitations may restrict the implementation of effective error handling.
User diversity makes it challenging to predict all potential errors.
Tools & Methods
Google Analytics for tracking error occurrences.
Hotjar for heat mapping and understanding user interactions.
UserTesting for gathering feedback on error handling.
UsabilityHub for testing design iterations focused on error reduction.
Mixpanel for analyzing user engagement and error rates.
How to Cite "Error" - APA, MLA, and Chicago Citation Formats
UX Glossary. (2025, February 12, 2026). Error. UX Glossary. https://www.uxglossary.com/glossary/error
Note: Access date is automatically set to today. Update if needed when using the citation.