Files are created outside of Sitecore and uploaded to the Sitecore Media Library for use in pages.

Refer to Media Library for more information about storing and using files.

A web-ready image is a graphics file that has been properly prepared for use in a website.

Preparation consists primarily of sizing, cropping and compressing the image before uploading it to Sitecore.

Why Optimize?

An image downloaded from MSU Photos or another media source is not always ready for the web.

Taking a few simple steps will greatly improve user experience by reducing image download time and providing consistent quality displays.

File Specifications

Sitecore restricts uploads to a maximum file size of 12 MB. This includes images, PDFs and other documents and video files. If this is an issue, contact the University Communications Platform Team for assistance. 

Checklists for Preparing Files

Complete these steps on your computer (not in Sitecore.)

For PDFs

1. Check the file for accessibility compliance and fix any issues. (Refer to MSU’s Digital Accessibility website for help.)
2. Compress the file.
3. Name the file. Keep the name short but meaningful, with no spaces and no special characters (except hyphen or underscore).

A file can be uploaded to Media Library before working on a page. The file can also be uploaded during page editing. 

Images and PDF files must be prepared prior to uploading them. See the above section for more information. Other file types do not need preparation. 

Upload a File in Media Library

In Media Library:

1. Locate the Media Library in the Content Tree (left pane).
2. Expand the Assets folder and locate the website.
3. Expand either the appropriate folder: Images (for images), Videos (for video files) or Docs (for other files).
4. Click the folder or subfolder where the file will be added.
5. Click Upload file.
6. Click Browse. Select the image from your computer and click Open.
7. Click Upload. The image information will display in the main content area.
8. Click Save (upper left, on the navigation ribbon.)

Upload a File During Editing in Content Editor

In Content Editor:

1. Locate the Media Library in the Content Tree (left pane).
2. Expand the Assets folder and locate the website.
3. Expand either the appropriate folder: Images (for images), Videos (for video files) or Docs (for other files).
4. Click the folder or subfolder where the file will be added.
5. Click Upload file.
6. Click Browse, select the file from your computer and click Open.
7. Click Upload. The file information will display in the main content area.
8. Click Save (upper left, on the navigation ribbon.)

Documentation updated: June 17, 2024