Empty state template for SaaS dashboards

What does this empty state template include?

An SVG illustration as the primary visual, a headline directing the user to their first action, a description paragraph, two CTA buttons for creating an entity or importing a template, three quick start tiles with titles and template links, and KPI tiles showing placeholder dashes.

How is this empty state different from the filled dashboard overview?

The empty state is the same screen layout as the dashboard overview but in its state before any data exists. The KPI tiles show placeholder dashes, the chart area is replaced by a centered illustration and headline, and the activity feed area is replaced by quick start tiles. The two templates form a pair: the empty state shows to new users, and the dashboard overview shows once their first entity exists.

What should the empty state headline say?

The headline should name the user's first action, not the absence of data. 'Ship your first deployment' works. 'No deployments yet' does not. Frame the empty state as an entry point, not a dead end.

What goes in the quick start tiles?

Three of the most common starting points for a new user in the relevant context. Each tile has a short title describing the use case and a link to the relevant starter template or prefilled form. Three distinct options reduce the blank page hesitation that causes new users to leave without taking an action.

Which tools work with this empty state template?

Claude Code, Replit, Lovable, ChatGPT Codex, Bolt, and Cursor. Paste it in and replace the headline, description, the two CTA labels, and the three quick start tile titles and links with your own first run experience.