Dynamic Info Blocks

Configure a Snapshot

Snapshot is the act of creating a single block that represents a larger collection of data.  When using multiple info block files in a single space this allows pages to show end users a smaller idea that they can expand.  It reduces the amount of data they have to see all at once when the page loads.

Dynamic Content Required

Snapshots were designed as part of the dynamic content specifically useful for applications and directories.  While there is nothing that would prevent you from using them with microblogs or media layouts its purpose doesn't really fit in to those interfaces and may confuse users.

Multiple files work best

Since you can add multiple info blocks to your sections, snapshots will help create a feature topic (see example to right or below) that users will engage with first before the full interface loads.  Multiple pages could mean a hundred or more items for users to scroll through.  Using a snapshot will take each file and make it one choice.

As soon as the user chooes where to start all the data from that particular file is displayed; however, the ability to show everything is just one click away.  Users are always able to add multiple or all data collections to what they see on the screen.

Open Snapshot Dashboard

When editing info block content, and using a dynamic content type, you will see two buttons next to the content layout section.

The bottom button is the snapshot dashboard editor.  Press this button to open or close the dashboard which will have all the elements needed to create a snapshot for that file.

CSS / Image editors

If you prefer to use a background color or want to use a stock photo you can add that to the CSS editor.  If you have your own image just upload it and then in the image editor add the image like you would in any regular content.

If you are using your own image you can use the background placement styles to help position the image within the header of the snapshot.

If you use a style and do not see the image appear, check to see if there are span tags or spaces ( ).  Copy/Paste tends to add this to the editors.

Header / Footer Text editors

The Header text is generally a single word or phrase.  The font size will be larger and should help users instantly understand what type of data they will see.  Footer text is smaller font and should be a simple paragraph with any additional details that are important for them to know.

Use a snapshot

Each file that uses a snapshot needs to have their snapshot configured within the info block file.  In the interface set up there is an option to use snapshots.  That must be checked in order for the snapshot to be shown on a page.

Snapshots will displayed on a page based on the order which the files are loaded into the section's page properties.  This means you can dynamically control the order in which snapshots display every place you use them.  

The View Button

At the bottom of the snapshot will be a "view" button that is automatically created for you.  There is no link and it will have the same effect as if a user was looking at the info block interface and checked a box in the data collection filter.

Saving / Editing

If you want to make changes to the text simply open the info block, press on the presentation button and edit away.  When you're done you can publish the file and it will update the information automatically.  

If you want to close the dashboard you can simply press the snapshot dashboard button again to close the window, just remember to save or close any open editors before you do.