Sitecore field for selecting multiple files from media library with the ability to upload files

Question

I'm looking for something that allow content editors to select multiple files from the media library, which will be listed in a rendering. They also need to be able upload files and to search. It has to work in the Page Editor (named Experience Editor in version 8).

What I have have considered so far:

• A bunch of File fields - but I don't know how many files the editor need to select at most, and having something like 20 similar fields seems bad.
• Using a field that supports multiple items like a Treelist with the datasource set to the Media Library allows the user to select files in an acceptable way but not uploading. I tested adding one File field just for the upload function, but was not really satisfied.

Notes:

• Currently using Sitecore 7.5 but moving to 8 in a few days, so a solution working in Sitecore 8 is preferred.
• I have asked the Sitecore support too and will update here if I get useful answers.

Answer 1

And the winner is.... the answer from Sitecore support:

In the Email Experience Manager module there is a field called "File List". The image shows the dialog in Sitecore 8 and the field itself (below). It has search, supports multiple files and upload. It stores the value as pipe-separated GUIDs (just as similar fields like Treelist).

Answer 2

The Field Types Module on Sitecore Marketplace includes "Visual List" and "Carousel" custom field types which may provide what you need. I have used this in the past and found it to work well, though I'm not sure if it's compatible with Sitecore 8. As I remember, I don't think they provided the option for uploading new media from the field.

Answer 3

An alternative solution is to use a placeholder and a file component with a DataSource.

Give the component a standard File Field. So upload is possible. But for every new file the editor must add a new component to the placeholder with the page editor. This is with a lot of files more work for the editor. But a standard solution. (and the ability to personalize the files with the rules engine)