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(notes from a session at DrupalCon 2010)

Tips on making Drupal admin easier to maintain

• choose node types to match user expectations
• specify fields such that a field value is a datum in reality; if it's not, use a node reference.
• use autocompletes only when select lists are prohibitively long
• form layout: reconsider field order to match data entry procedure
• navigate like a visitor - edit links should be obvious
• make custom views for searching for & working with specific types of content
• Node Relationships module allows adding related nodes from within the edit form
• front-end theming should allow navigation: Views lets you add an edit link directly to a view
• view/edit tabs in many themes alter the flow of the page; consider moving them with Admin module so they are in an overlay instead.
• Admin module with Rubik theme provides unobtrusive admin links, moves settings out of the flow of the edit form by moving them to the right
• inline editing for small tasks
• add clear field descriptions & help text when creating CCK fields