Sitecore values -- Template > Standard Values > Branch > Item

Question

OK, here's the process I took...

1. create a new template "Mail Message"
2. create a "__Standard Values" item for the template
3. edit the "Subject" field in the standard values item: "Monthly email newsletter"
4. create a branch for the template
5. do NOT set the Subject field in the branch item
6. create an item from the branch

I would expect the subject would be the one from the standard values item, however it seems the branch field value is blank, and in turn the created item also has a blank subject field.

Should the Branch field value be that of the standard value. Or does the very act of creating a branch item eliminate any standard values you set.

Does the field versioing have any effect (e.g. Shared, Unversioned)?

I haven't been a big user of Branches, so I am surprised at the behaviour, but if it is normal, all good. Just want to confirm.

Answer 1

Creating the branch for the item template should copy the standard values and allow you to update the default values from the template.

So for example if you had "Monthly email newsletter" in the "Subject" field of the template it would be the same in the branch and all items created from that item.

Changing that field in the Standard Values should then update it in the branches and items.

If you have changed the field on the item however the link would be broken and you would no longer manage it from the standard values with out resetting the values.

Not sure on the shared/unversioned factor but dont think it effects the standard values.

Answer 2

When you change the value in branch template, you've broken the link already. So after that if you change the standard value, the value in branch template will not effect

Answer 3

Alternatively, if the template or standard values were locked when the branch or item was created, the standard values might not have carried through.

Either way, you need to reset the value of the sitecore item. On the item, click the 'Reset' button (can't remember offhand which ribbon) and check the checkbox next to 'Subject'. Now, the field will show as 'Subject [standard value]'.

Hope that helps!