Setting Basic Properties

The properties tab panel has input fields for basic descriptive information called metadata.  Metadata is sometimes called "data about data." The panel contains settings and fields for:

• whether the item shows up in the navigation menu
• keywords you wish to add or set
• a list of contributors for the item
• principle and secondary creators
• effective date
• expiration date
• language setting for the item
• copyrights that may pertain
• and whether discussion is allowed on the item 

The properties tab panel:

There is no requirement to specify this information, but it is a good idea to do so when there are several people involved in content creation, especially if there are multiple creators and contributors working in groups.  You don't always need fields such as effective and expiration dates, language, and copyrights, but these data should be specified when appropriate. A content management system can only be as good as the data completeness allows. Specifying keywords requires attention, but if you are able to get into the habit, and are thoughtful to create a meaningful set of keywords, there is a return on the investment through searching and other facilities in Plone.  You'll be able to put your finger on what you need, and can discover and use relationships within the content.