Use collections without pages

Collections in Pixelesq don't always need to generate individual pages. You can use them purely as structured data to display across your site. For example, testimonials, FAQs, or product categories that appear on various pages don't necessarily need their own dedicated pages. This guide shows you how to create and use data-only collections by disabling the "Has Pages" option.

When to Choose Data-Only Collections

Data-only collections work best when:

• Your entries will appear as part of other pages or components

• Individual entries don't need their own URLs

• You're using reference fields to populate content elsewhere

• You want to manage repeatable content centrally

Creating a Data-Only Collection

Start by creating a new collection, but uncheck the "Has Pages" option in the Create dialog. Your collection will still have a Name and Slug (required for internal reference), but won't generate public URLs.

Setting Up Your Fields

Open the Field Schema Manager and add fields just like any other collection. For a testimonials collection, you might include:

• Quote Text

• Customer Name

• Company Name

• Rating

Adding Collection Entries

Create entries exactly as you would in a regular collection. Fill in your defined fields and save each entry. Remember, these won't create individual pages, but the data is stored and ready to use.

Using Your Data-Only Collection

You can display your entries in two main ways:

1. Through Collection Lists on pages:

   • Add a Collection List component to any page

   • Select your data-only collection as the source

   • Style the entries as needed (grid, slider, etc.)

2. Via Reference Fields:

   • Link entries to other collections or pages

   • Display referenced data in templates

   • Create relationships between content types

Managing Your Entries

Keep your collection current by:

• Adding new entries as needed

• Updating existing content

• Removing outdated entries

• Organizing entries using tags or categories

Pro Tips and Troubleshooting

• Each entry has a unique ID and slug for internal reference

• You can enable pages later if needed

• Check your data bindings if entries aren't displaying

• Remember data-only collections won't appear in navigation automatically

Remember: The only way to display data-only collection entries is by deliberately placing them on your pages or referencing them in other collections. This gives you complete control over where and how your content appears.