Choosing Page Types

Users expect content to be organized in a way that makes sense. That's why, in larger websites, similar or related pages are often grouped into what's called a section.

"Section" is also a term for folders and structure within the CMS. A CMS section is not only a folder in the site directory, but it also has its own index page and configurable properties and can have its nested structure displayed in the left navigation. In the CMS, sections allow for pages or other sections to be built within it while pages do not.   

Pages vs. Sections

It's a good idea to create all pages as sections, if possible, within the CMS. This way, even if you don't have a need to build pages under the page, you can do it in the future without having to re-create the page as a section. Only profile pages and news pages cannot be created as sections.

 

Organizing Pages

There are two ways to visually group pages within the CMS, with section headings and subunit headers.

• 

  Section headings are subtle labels that can be applied to a collection of pages to group like pages together. For example, the “Our Faculty and Staff” section heading appears on all of the directory profile pages, identifying that each page is part of that section. The section heading appears in smaller gray text above the page title, and below the subunit header if there is one on the page.

• 

  Subunit headers are labels that define an organizational entity within a larger unit site. For example, these can be used to identify a department, center or institute on all of their pages. The subunit heading appears at the top of the content area in a light weight font with a dotted horizontal rule below it.

Be Consistent

Section headers and subunit headings can be added to pages within one section or numerous sections within one larger parent section. Just remember that consistency is key. Make sure they appear on all pages within the entire section or subunit or none. 

  

Other Page Types

All pages are created using this same content page template, with a few exceptions.

• Home Page – Present a great first impression on your unit site's primary page.
• News Section – Create article pages that set up story listings and compile on a news page.
• Profile Directory Section – Build a directory based off of your profile detail pages.
• Resource Directory Section – Build resource detail pages and create a custom, searchable index page it to fit your needs.
• Location Page – Help visitors find your physical location with an embedded map.
• Contact Us Page – Make connecting with you as easy as filling out a form.
• Calendar Page – Feed in events specific to your unit. 
• Social Media Page – List of all of your unit’s official social media profiles in one place.