What does this mean? 

All files uploaded to the Media Library and File Stores in the Web CMS after the above date and time will no longer use the current filename formats when published. 

The current filename formats for the Media Library (Media,123456,smxx.pdf) and File Stores (Filetoupload,123456,en.pdf) will be replaced with the name of the uploaded file e.g., ‘annual-report-and-accounts-2023-24.pdf’. 

When a visitor downloads a file from your website, that file will have the full filename.  

What files will this update affect? 

This will be a ‘point in time’ change and will not affect existing files in the Media Library and File Stores in the Web CMS, unless they are updated with a new version of a file, after 10.00am on Monday 23rd October 2023. 

To clarify: 

• New files – Uploaded after 10.00am on Monday 23rd October 2023 will have the full filename e.g. ‘Filetoupload,123456,en.pdf’ will become ‘annual-report-and-accounts-2023-24.pdf’. 
• Existing Files – The filename of an existing file will only be affected if a new version of that file is uploaded to the Web CMS after 10.00am on Monday 23rd October 2023. 

Why is this change being made?

There are several reasons why this change is being implemented including: 

• Resource Integrity – Filenames help to provide more assurance to the end user that the file being downloaded is correct and related to their area of interest. 
• Search Engine Optimisation – Using lowercase files names, with hyphens (-) to separate words, is the preferred convention for search engines. This will make files easier to index and search results more useful.  

Example file using the recommended convention:

• annual-reports-accounts-2023-24.pdf 

Will this change the way I add files to Media Library and File Stores in the Web CMS? 

In short, yes it will. The key change will require service users to follow the new file naming convention for accessible files uploaded to the Web CMS. 

Service users will need to review updated guidance for Preparing and Uploading Files to the Media Library and for adding files to a File Store using the File Upload Content Type. 

If you have any questions relating to the implementation of Full Filenames, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us via the IT Service Desk.