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Contingency design
Contingency design is the overcoming and prevention of error scenarios. These are situations in which visitors to the website encounter problems, such as a “404 - Not Found” page.
The idea behind contingency design is that there is no such thing as a ‘perfect’ site - no matter how thoroughly it is tested. There is always a chance that visitors will encounter problems, either through their own actions, or because of an error on the site. Contingency design offers visitors assistance in solving such problems.
The advantages of attention to contingency design
Paying attention to contingency design reduces the frustration among visitors. A site that offers visitors assistance whenever they encounter a problem will result in greater satisfaction and loyalty among its visitors.
Contingency design guidelines
Some guidelines with which web developers can make it easier for visitors to solve problems they encountered on the site. 
Contingency design in practice
A practical application of contingency design in common situations.
Useful error pages
Web servers produce standard pages to report errors to visitors, but web developers can also create their own pages.
Error messages
Useful forms
Containing some tips for drawing up forms that make it easier for the visitor to complete them and prevent a few common error situations.
Search engines and search terms
Links and references
- Making Mistakes Well
Matthew Linderman - Contingency Design Whitepaper
37Signals.com - Contingency design, error messages - user experience design articles and resources
Dey Alexander
