Prepopulate Component Content in Sitecore XM Cloud with SXA

Predefine Component Content in Sitecore XM Cloud with SXA

Learn how to streamline your content creation process in Sitecore XM Cloud by predefining example content for components. With this setup, content authors can simply drag and drop components onto a page — and see them instantly populated with predefined sample content.

Simplify Authoring with SXA Per-Site Functionality

While branch templates have long allowed predefined content, many developers aren’t aware that Sitecore Experience Accelerator (SXA) offers a more scalable, per-site solution. With the right setup, each SXA site can benefit from tailored Standard Values that define rendering defaults, parameters, and datasources.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Standard Values in SXA

1. Start by confirming that the Standard Values Site Setup module is installed.
2. On your site’s homepage, check the Modules section for the Standard Values Site setup item. If it’s missing:
   • Right-click the site node
   • Navigate to Scripts
   • Select Add Site Module and install the Standard Values module
3. After installation, a new item called Standard Values will appear under Settings.
4. Right-click it and choose Insert > Standard Values. A configuration screen will open, gathering all renderings along with their corresponding rendering parameters and datasource templates.
5. Ensure that:
   • Datasource templates
   • Rendering parameters templates
   inherit from _PerSiteStandardValues. This inheritance is key for enabling predefined content per site.

Once configured, every new component placed on the page can come with thoughtfully designed default content — making life easier for content editors and improving the editing experience across the board.

Happy coding!