Short Answer
In Adobe Experience Manager (AEM), templates are pre-defined structures that dictate the layout and initial content of pages created within the platform.
Understanding AEM Templates
The Role of Templates in AEM
Templates in AEM serve as the foundation for creating pages. They define the page structure, components, and their configuration, ensuring consistency across the content of a website.
Types of Templates in AEM
AEM offers two main types of templates:
- Static Templates: Defined by developers in the JCR (Java Content Repository) and less flexible, requiring developer intervention to update.
- Editable Templates: Introduced in AEM 6.2, they provide authors with more control to create and manage page templates through the template editor.
Static Templates
Characteristics of Static Templates
Static templates are the traditional way of creating templates in earlier versions of AEM. They are:
- Less flexible after creation.
- Defined by developers.
- Stored under the /apps directory in the repository.
Creating a Static Template
- Develop the Template Structure: Developers write the HTML structure and include components using JSP or HTL.
- Define the Content: They specify the initial content and design for pages.
- Deploy the Template: The template is deployed to the AEM instance.
Editable Templates
Advantages of Editable Templates
Editable templates introduced a more flexible and user-friendly approach:
- They can be created and edited by content authors without coding.
- Allow for controlled changes through template policies and permissions.
Creating an Editable Template
- Access the Template Console: Templates are managed through AEM’s Template Console, usually found at /libs/wcm/core/content/sites/templates.html.
- Create the Template: Authors initialize a new template with a basic structure.
- Edit the Template: Using the template editor, authors can add and configure components.
- Set Policies: Authors define component policies to control the behaviour and style of components within the template.
- Enable the Template: Once finalized, the template is enabled for use by content authors to create pages.
Conclusion
Templates are a core concept in AEM, critical for defining the layout and initial setup of pages. They provide a starting point for authors and ensure consistency across the site’s content. Whether using static or editable templates, AEM offers solutions to cater to both developer and content author needs, balancing flexibility, control, and ease of use.
