Content Type in SharePoint 2010 :
A Content Type is an information blueprint basically that can be re-used throughout a SharePoint environment for defining things like metadata and associated behaviors.It is basically an extension of a SharePoint list, however makes it portable for use throughout an instance regardless of where the instantiate occurs, ergo has location independence. Multiple content types can exist in one document library assuming that the appropriate document library settings are enabled.
The content type will contain things like the metadata, list form pages, workflows, templates (if a document content type), and associated custom written functionality.
When would I create a Custom Content Type in SharePoint 2010?
- To associate an information management policy with a group of documents (you should get these groupings from your organization’s retention policy, assuming you have one)
- To associate a global workflow with a group of documents (based on already-established business processes, if possible. It’s really hard to create new processes AND get them right in SharePoint at the same time. )
- To associate a template (such as a blank form or contract) with a group of documents
- To add unique site columns to a specific group of documents to enhance search functionality(search) and/or usability (views). Make sure the metadata is really needed for search functionality and usability, and not just “nice to have” for a certain group of users.
