The popular web-based design tool Canva suffered a massive outage today, and people are still not able to access their projects. Reports started flooding into Downdetector, a service which monitors site outages, and more than 500 users reported problems by the evening. The main complaint was not being able to log in or access saved designs on the site and in the cell phone application. There were also some users who had issues with certain servers and were not able to continue their tasks and download important files.
This outage is just a fortnight after a similar one, raising serious concerns about a service that millions of people use when it comes to presentations in businesses to social media illustrations. The shutdown caused not only the extension of the current projects but also an outpouring of responses on social media. Frustrated, some users (who happen to rely on Canva to complete time-sensitive tasks) took to a flow of posts and memes, showing their frustration and anxiety.
To make matters worse, Canva had an official status page that kept all systems reported as working, but in reality, the problems were widespread. This mismatch in user experience and formal communication made many feel that they were not listened to and not sure when the routine would get back to usual. It also highlights a more fundamental problem of tech corporations as well i.e., the necessity to update more honestly and in a time-sensitive manner in instances of a service failure.
In the foreseeable future, the onset of recurrent outages may undermine user confidence and motivate some of them to turn to alternatives unless Canva curbs the underlying factors and revamps its intra-communication strategy. In the meantime, the accident reminds us that such platforms are so deeply embedded into everyday work lives that once removed, they can seriously disrupt the creative and productivity flow.
When a platform like Canva suddenly faces a problem, it can affect its entire functioning. Something similar happened today when users complained about the inability to access the website.