Using the Custom Content Kit

The Custom Content Kit (CCK) is used to track custom data on the website, similar to Microsoft Access or Filemaker.  Custom content exists for Affiliates and Events, among others.  Using CCK, you can not only set custom content types, but control how they are displayed.  For example, Consortium staff are marked with a flag indicating that they are current or former staff members.  This flag is only available to the Consortium staff themselves, but is used with Views to display staff members on the People page.

To adjust custom content:

1. Log on
2. Point the mouse at "Content management" in the black menu at the very top of the page
3. Point at "Content types."  A menu will pop out, showing all the different types of custom content
4. Point at the type of content you want to edit, eg. "Edit Associate."  A new menu will pop out, giving you the option to "Manage Fields" or "Display Fields."

Managing CCK Fields

This page shows you all the custom fields available for this content type.  You can edit how fields work, rearrange, delete, or even add new files.  Note: By editing these fields, you may delete content from existing databases.  Use carefully!

Display Fields settings

This page shows you how the CCK fields appear to the public.  For example, the Consortium Staff flag is invisible (unless you edit the page).  Note: You can set visibility for the "teaser" view separate from the "full node" view.  Because of all the custom views on this website, the teaser view rarely appears, but the "full node" view appears most of the time.

For more information on CCK, visit the CCK project page on Drupal.org.

Please note: This manual entry is intentionally short.  CCK is one of the most advanced features of Drupal web design.  It has already been covered elsewhere.  If you have a specific question, you can try the Drupal community support forums, or hire an expert.