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A content management system is a type of computer software that creates and manages website content. We are all familiar with the extent to which Web 2.0 has changed how we create, update, and publish our websites. CMSs were developed as an alternative solution for managing web pages internally without having to rely on external tools or services like WordPress plugins or LAMP frameworks.
The phrase content management system (CMS) may seem sophisticated, but it simply refers to the software that is used to create and administer a website. So, regardless of the sort of website you want to create, you’ll need a CMS. Whether you choose a code-based CMS like WordPress (which requires a learning curve or web design expertise) or a user-friendly and code-free CMS like Squarespace, it all depends on your requirements, money, and experience.
Different types of content management systems
Every small company has a website, which necessitates the use of a content management system (CMS). However, which CMS do you require? WordPress may be used to develop a website or an online shop. Knowing how to code (HTML, CSS, and PHP) will aid in the customization of your website. You may also use a website builder with a CMS, such as Squarespace or Wix, to create a website without writing any code.
- If you need to build a completely configurable site with unique features or a major eCommerce shop with the most sophisticated selling aspects, a code-based CMS is a way to go.
- If you need to rapidly and simply establish a site or online shop with prebuilt themes and components at a low cost, you should choose a no-code CMS.
The Advantages of Using a Content Management System
Using a content management system (CMS) is one of the simplest methods to create and manage a website and all of its content. A CMS gives you access to all of your website’s content, including pages, photos, posts, and code. A CMS eliminates the need for a web developer to build a site from the ground up.
- Multiple users: You should be able to define user rights so that members of your team, such as administrators, editors, and writers, have proper access.
- Scheduling: Using a CMS to schedule posts allows you to create content ahead of time and upload it all at once, but spread out each instance over time.
- Organization: A CMS provides a database basis for your content. For example, images are stored separately from blogs. Search tools are also included in a good CMS, so you can simply access your data without having to utilize additional ways like FTP.
- There’s no need for expertise: You won’t need a web developer or an IT staff to keep your website up and running since most CMSs are simple to understand and use.
- Affordable: Using a free open source CMS or a website builder with a proprietary CMS are both cost-effective options. They’re a lot less expensive than paying a full-time developer to create a bespoke site publishing system.
There are just two scenarios in which a typical CMS may not be beneficial (open source or with a website builder). A landing page builder may be the ideal option for you if you simply want static single pages or landing pages that you don’t plan to maintain. The third scenario is if you need an in-house, proprietary CMS for a bespoke solution and either have the technical expertise or have hired someone to design and maintain it for you.
CMS Features and How to Pick the Best CMS
When it comes to selecting a CMS for your small company website, there are a few things to think about. Who will design and manage your website? What features of a CMS are most essential to you? And what is your financial plan? Your best chance is to go with a CMS that is simple to use and doesn’t need any coding.
When selecting a CMS, keep the following in mind:
- Usefulness: While using any CMS is preferable to not using one, some are more user-friendly than others. Look for one that offers a good balance of versatility and simplicity of usage. Some are drag-and-drop (WordPress), while others are menu-based (WordPress) (Wix).
- Pricing, plans, and inclusions: You can use an open-source CMS like WordPress for free, but you’ll need web hosting and may wish to add a site builder plugin to make it simpler to use. Consider the cost of all add-ons against the expense of utilizing an all-in-one site builder that comes with everything you need to host and construct a website.
- Scalability: Consider everything you want to accomplish with your website as your company grows, and select a CMS that allows for future modifications. You can start with a simple website, but you may wish to expand into an online shop later.
- Templates or themes: While most CMS provide free themes or templates, they may not be exactly what you need. You could have to pay for a premium theme or look for a website builder and CMS that provides free designer-made themes or templates.
- Website builder: Almost every CMS comes with a website builder, and although this contributes to the simplicity of use, it’s still worth mentioning individually. If you want to design your own small company website, a CMS with an easy, built-in site builder will make things simpler.
- Plugins: Even the greatest CMS may fall short of providing all of the features you want, which is why it’s critical to examine which applications are compatible with the CMS you choose.
- Content editor and scheduler: While every CMS should allow you to edit and schedule content, some are better than others. It is feasible to utilize a plugin with certain CMS that lacks good content editors, however, it is preferable to use a CMS that makes content management simple.
- Access to most content management systems is password-protected, but you may wish to set up a firewall as well. Make sure your CMS software and any plugins you use are up to date. Also, be wary of whatever plugins you install since some free plugins may be exploited to exploit security flaws.
Because most small companies will not need a specialized CMS, a standard CMS is the best option. Squarespace makes it simple to create and maintain a website, manage content with its own content management system, and upgrade to an online shop. You may also set up a membership site, collect online restaurant orders, or accept payments for a service-based company.
The Most Effective Content Management Systems
For a small company, the finest content management system is one that is simple to use for everyone. Make sure it has a website builder, as well as a scheduler for blog articles and plugins, so you can add features without having to hire a web developer. You’ll save money and time if you use the best CMS.
The following are the finest content management systems for most small businesses:
- WordPress: You shouldn’t need much more than a WordPress theme, hosting, and your own content to create a WordPress website. You may need to employ plugins to add features like an eCommerce solution, SEO tools, and a more user-friendly site builder.
- Squarespace: This website builder places a premium on design. With a Squarespace subscription, all of the themes are free to use, and they’re all designed by professionals (so you know your website will look awesome). The CMS is simple to use, and plans start at about $12 per month.
- GoDaddy: GoDaddy used to be only a domain registrar and web server, but it now has a website builder as well. If you need a website fast, GoDaddy has an AI-powered designer who will create a site based on your responses to its inquiries.
- Wix: Consider Wix if you want one of the most user-friendly CMS and website builders available. It’s a genuine drag-and-drop editor, making it simple to use for everyone. There are hundreds of free themes to select from, hosting is included, and the plans are reasonably priced.
- Webnode: Webnode is a website builder rather than a content management system. It’s a popular website builder for developers, but compared to most other builders, it’s restricted when it comes to blogging. It, like WordPress, focuses on plugins and integrated solutions rather than built-in functionality, as Squarespace and Wix do.
It’s important to remember that the greatest CMS isn’t always the best website builder. WordPress, for example, is a great CMS, but it isn’t the most user-friendly for creating websites. You’ll need to buy a plugin to add items and drag-and-drop capabilities. Most of the functionality you’d expect from a CMS is included in website builders like Squarespace and Wix.
Most Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a content management system (CMS) and a customer relationship management system (CRM)?
It’s conceivable that your company needs both a CMS and a CRM, but the two are not interchangeable. A content management system (CMS) is a tool for creating and managing websites and their content. A customer relationship management software (CRM) is a program that keeps track of information about clients, customers, and sales prospects.
Is a content management system required?
If you don’t know how to code and want total control over your website and content, a CMS is the way to go. Otherwise, the developer will decide if you want to engage someone to design and administer your company’s website. When opposed to when a site is developed on a CMS, some developers prefer to construct websites from the ground up since it needs fewer databases.
Which content management systems are the most popular?
WordPress is the most widely used content management system on the planet. It is not, however, the only CMS available, nor is it the most user-friendly. WordPress is not recommended for those without web design skills or the time to learn.
Conclusion
Every company needs a website, which is created using a content management system. All-in-one site builders are the finest CMS for individuals that require a site but aren’t familiar with web design. Not only do they make it simple for anybody to create their own website, but they’re also inexpensive and simple to operate.
