How to Configure List View in Strapi CMS?

Adeeb Malik

Blog / How to Configure List View in Strapi CMS?

The list view in Strapi is your central hub for managing and viewing content entries. 

Learning to configure the list view effectively can significantly streamline your content management workflow.

Let's explore how you can customize and configure the list view to match your specific needs.

What is List View in Strapi?

List view is the interface where you can see all entries of a content type in a table format.

Your content dashboard displays your entries in organized rows and columns that you can customize to show exactly what you need.

Importance of Customizing List View

Customizing your list view in Strapi is more than just arranging data—it's about creating an efficient workspace that serves your specific needs.

A well-configured list view can dramatically reduce the time spent managing content and improve team productivity by presenting the most relevant information at a glance.

Configuring the list view properly can:

  • Improve content management efficiency
  • Reduce time spent searching for specific entries
  • Make data more accessible to team members
  • Streamline your workflow with relevant information at a glance

Basic List View Settings Configuration

Getting started with list view configuration involves understanding and setting up the fundamental features that control how your content is displayed and managed.

These basic settings form the foundation of your content management interface and include essential functions like search, filters, and pagination.

Image: Configuring List view in Strapi
Source: Strapi

A. Accessing Configuration Panel

To begin configuring your list view:

  1. Navigate to your desired content type
  2. Look for the settings icon (typically a gear symbol) in the top-right corner
  3. Click "Configure the view" from the dropdown menu

B. Essential Settings Options

1. Search Functionality

To enable or disable search:

  • Navigate to the Settings area
  • Find the "Enable search" toggle
  • Switch between TRUE or FALSE based on your needs
  • Click Save to apply changes

2. Filter Management

Filters help users narrow down entries:

  • Enable/disable filters through the settings panel
  • Configure which fields can be filtered
  • Set up custom filter options for specific fields

3. Bulk Actions

Bulk actions allow mass operations:

  • Enable/disable through settings
  • Available operations include delete, publish/unpublish
  • Configure which actions are available to users

4. Pagination Settings

Optimize your view with proper pagination:

  • Set entries per page (recommended: 10-25 for optimal performance)
  • Choose from predefined pagination options
  • Consider loading times when setting higher numbers

Advanced List View Customization

Take your Strapi interface to the next level with advanced list view customization options that offer greater control and flexibility.

This section explores sophisticated configuration options that allow you to fine-tune your content display, sorting mechanisms, and field management.

A. Sorting Configuration

Configure how your entries are sorted:

  1. Choose the default sort attribute
  2. Set default sort order (ascending/descending)
  3. Enable/disable sorting for specific fields

B. Field Display Management

Customize visible fields:

  • Add/remove fields using the field selector
  • Arrange fields by dragging and dropping
  • Configure field labels and visibility

Working with Relational Fields

Relational fields in Strapi require special attention when configuring the list view, as they connect different content types and need careful handling to maintain performance.

Understanding how to properly display and manage relational fields is crucial for creating an effective content management system.

A. Relational Field Display

Important considerations:

  • Only one field per relational field can be displayed
  • First-level fields only (no nested relations)
  • Multiple values show as a counter with a hover tooltip

B. Relational Field Considerations

Keep in mind:

  • Value counters show the first 10 entries
  • Tooltips provide quick previews of related content
  • Sorting limitations apply to relational fields

Best Practices and Tips

Maximize the effectiveness of your list view configuration by following industry-tested best practices and expert recommendations.

A. Performance Optimization

For optimal performance:

  • Limit displayed fields to essential information
  • Use pagination effectively
  • Configure search and filters strategically

B. User Experience Enhancement

Improve usability by:

  • Organizing fields logically
  • Using clear, descriptive labels
  • Creating an intuitive layout

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the most carefully configured list views can encounter occasional issues, but knowing how to identify and resolve them quickly is key to maintaining a smooth operation. 

Common problems and solutions:

  1. Configuration Save Issues
    • Clear browser cache
    • Check permissions
    • Verify all required fields
       
  2. Display Glitches
    • Refresh the page
    • Check browser compatibility
    • Verify field configurations
       

Configuration Maintenance

Maintaining your list view configuration is an ongoing process that ensures your content management system remains efficient and effective over time.

Regular maintenance helps prevent issues before they arise and keeps your system running smoothly as your content needs to evolve. 

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance:

  • Review configurations quarterly
  • Update settings after major changes
  • Maintain configuration backups
  • Document custom configurations

Regular Review Procedures

Implement a review schedule:

  1. Monthly check of field relevance
  2. Quarterly performance review
  3. Semi-annual complete configuration audit

Backup Recommendations

Protect your configurations:

  1. Export configuration settings regularly
  2. Document all custom changes
  3. Maintain version history

Remember that configuring the list view is an ongoing process in Strapi CMS. Regular reviews and adjustments ensure your Strapi implementation remains efficient and user-friendly.

Start with basic configurations and gradually implement more advanced features as your needs evolve.

Adeeb Malik
by Adeeb Malik
Content and Marketing Specialist

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