Content Management System

Ornate door

Introduction to Content Management

St. Edward's uses a powerful content management system (CMS) that allows users to create, edit, and publish web content efficiently. 

In this training, we will cover the key aspects of managing content, including components, media, workflows, SEO, and accessibility.

The image shows a young woman with long, wavy brown hair working on a laptop in a spacious, well-lit study area. She wears a light blue sleeveless top with white lace trim. A yellow water bottle, a pink pen, and a notebook are on the table. Other students are visible studying in the background.

Managing Layouts with Components

Components are pre-defined building blocks that allow you to structure your content easily. Components such as accordions, media grids, call-to-action buttons, and Link Lists help you build engaging pages with little to no web design experience required.

To add a component:

  1. Click Add Component while editing a page.
  2. Select a component type
  3. Enter the required content and configure any display settings.
  4. Save and preview how it appears on the page.
What is a Component?

SEO and Accessibility Best Practices

To ensure Drupal content is optimized for search engines and accessible to all users, use the following guide.

Page titles should accurately describe the content of the page. A well-crafted title helps users understand the topic before clicking and improves search engine rankings. Titles should be concise, include relevant keywords, and avoid vague phrases like "Home" or "Welcome."

Headings help organize content for both users and search engines. Each page should have a single H1 for the main title, followed by H2s for major sections and H3s for subsections. This structure enhances readability and improves SEO by signaling content hierarchy.

Alternative (alt) text describes an image for visually impaired users and helps search engines index the image. It should be concise, descriptive, and avoid phrases like "image of" or "picture of." Instead, focus on conveying the purpose of the image.

Links should clearly indicate where they lead. Instead of "Click here for more information," use "Read our accessibility guide" or "Explore Drupal SEO best practices." Descriptive links improve accessibility and usability.

Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background colors to enhance readability, especially for visually impaired users. Avoid light gray text on white backgrounds. Additionally, choose legible fonts and avoid excessively small text sizes.

Best Practices for Media

  • Always use descriptive file names.
  • Add alternative text for images to improve accessibility.
  • Use optimized file sizes for faster page loading.

CMS Training Office Hours

Office Hours are available for 2025.

MONTHDATE/TIMELOCATION
AugustAug 15, 2pmMain Building G8/9
SeptemberSep 15, 2pmMain Building G8/9
OctoberOct 15, 2pmMain Building G8/9
NovemberNov 15, 2pmMain Building G8/9
DecemberDec 15, 2pmMain Building G8/9
Full-Screen Media
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Managing Media in the CMS

The CMS has a dedicated Media Library for managing images, documents, and videos. To add media:

  1. Go to Content → Media and click Add Media.
  2. Choose the media type (Image, Remote Video, etc.).
  3. Add the photo or media sharing link and provide alt text for accessibility.
  4. Save and insert the media into content using the Media Browser.
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Content Workflow

Our new website employs a system known as web governance. The CMS content workflow ensures proper content approval processes. After editing, Editors Save and Send to Review. Publishers are notified by email and on their dashboard. They review and approve or request changes. When approved, content is published.

An aerial view of John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center - South.

Draft

Editors save content but cannot publish it.

The image shows a vibrant courtyard area with striking red and black glass-paneled buildings. The space is framed by tall, modern structures creating a semi-enclosed atmosphere. People are walking and sitting at tables under red umbrellas, suggesting a casual and social environment. The ground is paved with bricks, and there are potted plants adding a touch of greenery. The design is contemporary and dynamic, with the red panels reflecting light, creating an engaging and lively atmosphere.

Review

Publishers review the content for accuracy and consistency.

This image is an aerial view of a residential area featuring multiple buildings with red-tiled roofs and light-colored walls. The buildings are arranged in clusters surrounded by green lawns and trees, suggesting a suburban or campus setting. In the background, a broader view of the cityscape can be seen, with various buildings and infrastructure blending into the horizon under a clear blue sky. The scene conveys a sense of peacefulness and well-planned community living.

Published

Once approved, the content is made live on the website.

Contact Us

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Main Building G9
Zoom (by appointment)

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