CMS: Differences Between Single Item and Multiple Item Collections

3 min read
Manage your content for static pages by storing it in a collection with a single item. You can display this content by connecting page elements such as text, images, videos or buttons to fields in your collection.
Before you begin:
Make sure to add CMS to your site

Collections with a single item vs. multiple items

A collection with a single item stores content that is more suited for static pages. You can display this content on one or more pages of your site. 

By storing it in the CMS, your content is kept separate from your page. This is really useful when collaborating on pages. In this scenario, nobody can accidentally delete or alter the content.

This type of collection does not have a table layout. Instead, you add fields to build the collection as you would build a form. A collection with a single item is best suited for non-repeatable content, such as an 'about' page, or a single element on a site, like a picture or text box.

Display your content by connecting elements on the page to fields in your collection.
Both types of collections store content, but they serve different purposes. A collection with a single item has just one block of content and is suited for static pages. A collection with multiple items can store large amounts of content and is suited for dynamic pages.
Note:
Once you create a collection, it can't be converted from single item to multiple items, or vice versa.
A screenshot of a single item collection in the content manager, with the Manage Fields panel open.

Limitations of a collection with a single item

Using a collection with a single item provides a safe and secure environment for storing content, making it an ideal solution for collaborating. There are, however, some limitations compared to collections storing multiple items.
While creating a collection with a single item:
  • Once created, it can't be converted to a collection for multiple items.
  • Only 3 types of permissions are available: Site content, Members-Only Content and Private data.
  • The Draft & Publish Items option can't be enabled.

While managing its content:

While connecting elements in the Editor to data in a collection with a single item:
A screenshot of a Single Item collection as seen in the Content Manager.

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