Content Overview

Content Overview

This page outlines the content types available on most ITS Drupal websites. Selecting the correct content type is essential for site structure, data categorization, and a consistent experience for visitors.

Accessing the creation menu

To create new content, select Content from the Admin Toolbar, then click + Add content.

Core content types

These are the primary building blocks for your department website:

  • Page: The standard type for static, structural content (for example, “About Us” or “Academic Programs”). Page nodes use Paragraphs for modular layouts. See Paragraphs.
  • People: Faculty and staff profiles used in directories and related listings. See Directory Profiles.
  • News: Detailed articles, press releases, or official university updates.
  • Announcement: Shorter, time-sensitive information intended for quick release.
  • Event: University-affiliated functions with fields for dates, times, and location.

Media and engagement

Use these types to manage digital assets or interactive elements:

  • Photo Gallery: Collections of images in a structured grid or slider.
  • Video: Embedded content from YouTube, Vimeo, or similar hosts.
  • Newsletter: Archived or distributed departmental updates for specific audiences.

Specialized components

These types often populate specific regions of the site or provide auxiliary information:

  • Spotlight: Highlight individuals, programs, or success stories.
  • Testimonial: Quotes and feedback from students, alumni, or faculty.
  • Resource: Important external links or downloadable files such as PDF handbooks or policy documents.
  • Site Notification: High-visibility notification bar at the top of the site for urgent alerts or deadlines.
  • Pop Out Card: Small informational cards on the bottom right of designated pages to drive action.
  • Footer Link Group: Organized link groups in the global site footer.
  • Webform (Container): A page wrapper for Drupal Webforms (registrations, contact requests, surveys). You can manage scheduling for when the form appears; contact ITS to have a new webform built. See Webforms.

Best practices for university editors

  1. Search first: Before creating a new node, use filters on the Content list to confirm the information does not already exist.
  2. Naming conventions: Keep titles concise. Avoid internal jargon or acronyms that may confuse prospective students or external visitors.
  3. Mandatory fields: Fields marked with a red asterisk (*) must be completed before you can save.
  4. Work in progress: If content needs approval or is not finished, save it as Unpublished. Do not check Published until the content is ready for the public. See Publishing & Unpublishing.

Your content should be consistent and professional, adhering to University brand guidelines: brand.msstate.edu/guidelines/voiceandtone/index.php