Explain the next step in an empty list

A screen without results should not leave users uncertain.

Explain why nothing appears in one sentence.

Distinguish first-use emptiness from an unsuccessful search.

For example: “You have not created a project yet”.

Offer a relevant action such as Create Project.

The button name should explain that action.

For unsuccessful searches, suggest changing the query or filters.

Avoid confusing users with several equally prominent actions.

Decorative imagery does not replace a useful explanation.

Test the suggested path from the empty state.

Official sources

• Atlassian Design — Empty state