I just came across a great "No Search Results" page at sheetmusicplus.com. When you get a results page back for a term that is not found (c.f. Nick Cave), they've got the following text in bold:

0 Search Results for nick & cave

Zero results? Don't give up yet!
Try again

1. Check the search category you chose. Are you sure you want an Artist search?

2. If searching for a song title, type the exact song name only and make sure to choose Song Name or Composition from the pulldown menu.

3. Use just the last name of artists/composers.

4. Enter fewer words - try just part of a title, exclude instrument, etc.

5. Check your spelling. Try browsing Artist A-Z for those hard-to-spell names.

6. Still can't find it? Click here to learn more.

Isn't that great?! How many times have I battled with developers who just want to have a page that says, "0 Results Found. Try Again." which does nothing for users.

This page, however, not only grabs your attention with the text "Zero Results? Don't Give Up Yet!" in Bold on a grey box, but it's well written too.

This is excellent because A) It has a converstational tone rather than some formal text that explains why your search sucks, B) It has a bantering feel which says, "hey, we're in this together. Let's do what we can to find what you want." rather than a comment that makes you feel like a moron, C) the response is highlighted to the point that you can't help but read it, without being obnoxious.

I applaud the work and refinement that has gone in to this page.

Ross : Link : Discussion Board