Strategy

Content Type Mapping

Before you build, map your content. Content type mapping identifies each content type, its attributes, relationships, and purpose. Unplanned content models lead to unmaintainable systems. You can't scale unstructured content.

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
3-5
Category
Strategy
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will:

  • Identify content types in current or planned systems.

  • Define attributes and fields for each content type.

  • Map relationships between content types.

  • Create a foundation for content management and scalability.

Participants will deliver:

  • Documented content types with attributes and relationships.

  • A foundation for content management system design.

  • A shared vocabulary for content discussions.

Content type is the underlying structure; a template is the visual presentation. One content type can have multiple templates. Don't confuse them. Map the types first; templates come later.

"Page" is too broad and not useful. It doesn't tell you anything about structure. "Product page for shoes" is likely too specific and shouldn't be different from "Product page for shirts." Finding the right level of distinction can be tricky.

Content relationships define user experience. If reviews can't connect to products, users can't find relevant reviews. If authors can't connect to articles, bylines break. Model relationships explicitly. This content model enables CMS selection. If you don't know your types, attributes, and relationships, you're guessing at what system fits. Model first, tools second.

  1. List All Content (25 minutes): Inventory all user-facing content: articles, products, profiles, events, listings, FAQs. Don't organize yet, just list. Look at every page and template. Expect 10-30 content types. A blog post and product page are different types; both are content.

  2. Define Each Type (50 minutes): For each content type, document: What makes this type distinct? What fields does it have? (title, description, image, price, author, date, etc.) What's required vs. optional? How is it used? Who creates it? Create a structured definition for each type.

  3. Map Relationships (30 minutes): Draw connections between content types. Products belong to categories. Reviews reference products. Authors create articles. Events have locations. These relationships define how content connects and how users navigate. Map them explicitly.

  4. Identify Patterns (15 minutes): Look for content types that should be consolidated (too similar to justify separate types), content types missing (gaps in your model), and shared attributes across types (candidates for reusable components).

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

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  • Complete site/product inventory.

  • Whiteboard for mapping.

  • Spreadsheet for documenting attributes.

  • Examples of each content type.

  • User stories about content use.

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

Unlock Resources & Templates

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