Site Management Tools for eCommerce Content in NetSuite

TL;DR

Site Management Tools (SMT) allows web store managers to control the structure and content of their NetSuite-powered websites through customizable templates and drag-and-drop functionality. SMT helps manage page content effectively, enabling real-time updates and content visibility control.

What Are Site Management Tools (SMT)?

Site Management Tools (SMT) are designed to give web store managers a comprehensive way to manage the content and structure of their NetSuite Commerce websites. By utilizing template files that contain HTML markup and placeholders, SMT controls how pages display content.

Understanding Templates and Areas

Templates are central to SMT as they define the overall structure of your web pages. In essence, these template files contain predefined areas where you can add, edit, or manage website content. Each defined area is represented by a <div> tag within the template.

Key Features of Templates

• Control Over Structure: Templates come with pre-configured areas tailored for various commerce needs.
• Customization Options: You can edit existing areas or add new ones to cater to different content requirements.
• Reusable Components: Makes managing multiple pages easier by maintaining standardized layouts.

Defining Areas with <div> Tags

SMT areas are defined by <div> tags that are integral for assigning content locations on webpages. Each area can be configured with specific attributes:

• data-cms-area: This user-defined attribute names the area, which can be based on its purpose, such as main, sidebar, etc.
• data-cms-area-filters: This attribute defines the scope, determining which pages display the content in that area. Scope types include:
  • All Pages: Content is shared across all pages.
  • Page Type: Content designated by specific page types.
  • This Page: Content limited to a specific page.

Key Functionalities of SMT

With SMT, you have the capability to:

• Edit Content Easily: Drag-and-drop functionality for adding, moving, or modifying content.
• Create and Enhance Pages: Build new pages or improve existing ones with ease.
• Real-Time Previews: See content updates in real-time before publishing changes.
• Manage Language Translations: Add translations for categories and pages, facilitating multi-language support.
• Set Content Visibility: Control when specific content should appear based on date and time.

Who This Affects

• Web Store Managers: Directly utilize SMT for content management.
• Content Administrators: Responsible for maintaining and updating templates and areas.
• Developers: May need to implement or customize templates based on business needs.

Key Takeaways

• SMT streamlines content management for NetSuite-powered web stores.
• Templates and areas provide flexible control over website structure and content.
• Real-time editing and preview capabilities enhance efficiency.
• Multi-language support broadens audience reach.

Source: This article is based on Oracle's official NetSuite documentation.