Document types

A document type is a defined set of information and settings for a file. For example, a license application form is a file that might have required and optional information, and that might be set for manual versioning. That information and setting can be defined in a document type. Document types are defined on the ECM server.

When users upload or edit library files, they must associate them with a document type and provide at least the required information for that file. The document type information and settings are then associated with the file.

Document types are a useful tool to help you organize and retrieve library files. On the ECM server, document type information can be used to create custom views containing sets of files that share common characteristics. Those views can then display in libraries, if your administrator has enabled views. Document types also help you to control versioning and therefore the amount of storage space used.

When searching in IBM® Connections, you can filter the library files in your search results by document type. For more information, see Working with search results.

Community owners can change the default document type set for a library by updating library settings. They can also enable members to change the document type for files that they are uploading. For more information, see How do I manage a community library.