How to use custom fields in the content model, so that the multi-category official website does not rely on directory stacking.

How to use custom content models and custom fields, and how to avoid relying on directory organization on a multi-category official website? The core division is one sentence: stable dimensions into the classification tree, and different dimensions into custom fields. AnQiCMS supports custom content models and flexible content structures. No matter how many categories there are, the classification tree only retains the skeleton dimensions that do not change frequently, and the differences in model, material, and applicable scenarios are handed over to the fields, so the information structure will not degenerate into a deeper and deeper directory.

Stable dimensions into the classification tree

Determine whether a dimension can enter the classification tree by looking at whether it is still there after three years. Dimensions such as industry and product line, which are stable skeletal dimensions, are suitable as directories; while dimensions such as "2026 New Model" and "Promotion Model", which change with the seasons, enter the directory, the directory needs to be reorganized constantly. The classification tree maintains two to three layers, and users and search engines can predict the path structure; when the category expands, the new addition is the field value rather than a new level, which is the first principle of "not relying on stacking directories."

Custom fields for differential dimensions

When defining the model for product category content, break down the category differences into fields:

The customized field supports retrieval and filtering: Visitors get results pages from "Material = 304 Stainless Steel" that are more in line with expectations than searching through a five-level catalog. Once the field is launched and carries content, it is best to change the type as little as possible, and be strict in the early stage.

How to display parameter-based content

The value of the field is realized on the display end. Parameter-type content puts the number into the field instead of writing it in the text, the list page can be arranged by field to summarize, and the detail page can be rendered into a parameter block; subsequent price adjustments, change parameters only change the field value, the text description does not need to be moved. Conversely, if the parameters are written in the text paragraph, each revision is to edit the article all over again, and the maintenance cost in a multi-category scenario is magnified by the number of entries.

Interconnection across categories depends on anchor text

What does not deepen the catalog, and what relies on the horizontal connection? Two mechanisms: the keyword library manages SEO keywords centrally to ensure consistent terminology across categories; anchor text management supports automatic anchor text links for in-site keywords, so that the same technical term automatically points to a unified definition page or flagship entry in different categories of articles. Visitors can jump to explanations with in-site links if they read unfamiliar terms in any category, relying on a network of links rather than deepening the catalog.

Field design checklist

Check items one by one before going live:

1. Each field has a clear purpose - involved in filtering, sorting, or display, at least one of which, otherwise, delete it.
2. The value range is controllable - use candidate values from an enumeration class to avoid the coexistence of 'red/red/RED' three writing methods.
3. The number of classification levels does not exceed three, and adding new categories does not require reorganization of the catalog.
4. Terms are registered in the keyword library, and anchor text rules cover high-frequency words.
5. Complete the 'create entry - fill in fields - filter hits' link with a piece of real content and then expand in bulk.

Common questions

Should industries with a large number of categories build models according to categories?A product model and a category field are usually enough; uncontrolled model numbers will make backend maintenance heavier than catalog stacking.

How to migrate from an existing deep catalog?First, convert the most unstable bottom-level directories into field values, retain the stable skeleton, converge levels in batches, and set up redirects for old paths during the migration.

Will adding more fields slow down the page?The key is to only render the fields used, summarize the fields on the list page, and take full fields on the detail page according to the display requirements.