When to create a new content type

Content types give your content structure

When planning your content creation, you need to know if you have the right content types available. Right content types are important as they will structure that content. The content type you choose will provide the structure to discuss a topic. Some content types are general-purpose, composed of only a few common elements that can be used for a range of content items. Others are focused on a single specific topic and have numerous detailed elements.

Use what you have

In many cases, you will already have the content type you need. Unless there’s a special reason to manage or deliver unique details, more general content types are often adequate. But sometimes, you may think you need a new content type. 

When to extend your model 

Before you create a new content type, answer the following key questions:

• Is a new content type needed? 
• If an existing content type is not quite right, can you make a small modification to it so it will be useful in other situations?
• Who will use the new content type?
• Who will be in charge of the content type, making sure it is aligned with your organization’s long-term needs?

Confirm that the proposed new content type is significantly different from existing types, addressing content about something new and distinct and therefore requiring special elements.  Generally speaking, a new content type that will be used widely by many people will be more useful than one needed by only a few. And the more items that are created based on the new content type, the more that content type will be used. In other words, a new content type is more likely to be valuable when:

• It’s frequently used to create new content.
• It supports multiple products or different lines of business.

You should also expect that the new content type will be used for the long term. You generally shouldn’t create new content types to support short-term projects. 

The need for a new content type