Modeling Content

Design semantic, author-friendly content models by selecting the appropriate canonical type (Standalone, Collection, Configuration, or Auto-Blocked), structuring tables for clarity, and applying decoration-friendly patterns. This ensures reusable, predictable structures that reduce authoring confusion and rework.

These are four canonical model types for AEM blocks. Standalone models represent single entities; Collection groups multiple items; Configuration holds shared settings; Auto-Blocked auto-generates block variants. Choosing the right type aligns your structure with best practices and author workflows.

Apply semantic table design, use consistent naming conventions, minimize required fields, and structure data logically. Author-friendly models reduce training time, prevent mistakes, and ensure consistent content quality across your CMS.

Refactor when authoring becomes confusing, blocks change structure, or models drift from semantic best practices. Validation against canonical guidance, table design patterns, and decoration-friendly conventions helps identify when migration improves reusability and maintainability.

Yes. Validate existing blocks against semantic design, canonical model guidance, and decoration-friendly patterns. Modifying blocks that change authoring structure gives you the chance to apply best practices and improve author experience without full redesign.