Relations

A relation records that one item uses another: an article uses an image, a page points to related articles, a text embeds a file to download. The item that is used stays an item of its own, so it can be used by many items at once and is changed in one place. This page explains the kinds of relations and how to make them while you edit.

Four kinds of relations

Embedded and linked relations follow the text: remove the embed or the link and the relation goes with it.

A relation field

• Add existing objects opens the browse page: open folders, tick the items and press Select. A field for one item takes one; a field for several takes as many as you tick.
• Upload a file uploads a file from your computer, creates a new item from it (an image becomes an Image, most other files a File) and relates it.
• Find objects searches by name, without browsing.
• Remove selected takes the ticked relations away. The items themselves are not deleted.

In the browse page, move with the tabs at the top (such as Content structure and Media), the tree on the left and the list in the middle; the arrow before the folder name goes up one level. List and Thumbnail switch the view.

The Related objects box

Below the fields, Related objects lists the common relations of the item, in three groups: related images, related files and related content. Add existing and Upload new work like the buttons of a relation field. Whether and how the site shows common relations depends on its design; ask whoever builds the templates when they show nowhere.

Who uses this item?

The edit form does not show which items use the one you edit. Open the item and choose its Relations tab: it lists the items this one uses under Related objects and the items that use it under Reverse related objects. Look there before you change or remove an image or file that may be shared.

Who may do it

Editors who may edit the item and read the items they relate. Uploading a new item also needs the right to create it where uploads go.

What can go wrong

• An embedded or linked relation cannot be removed in the box. Remove the embed or the link from the text instead.
• The upload landed in an unexpected folder. Each kind of file goes to the place your site sets for it, usually a folder of the media library, unless you choose another place.
• The related item does not show on the site. It is hidden, in the trash, or in a section visitors may not read; or the design does not show that kind of relation.

Read more

• How do I relate other items to the one I am editing?, in the help center.
• How do I reuse an image or file from the media library?
• Images and files