Right decisions always make a great and positive difference. It’s the same when it comes to making decisions about your website and web presence. Selecting the right content management system and using it in the best interest of your website is one of the most crucial factors for a successful website. In fact, selecting the right CMS is an art. With the current scenario of the market where the websites have to be developed faster, many developers count on the open source content management systems to get the job done. As a result of this, there are many CMS’s floating around the web and making the right decision about them has become a little difficult.
To make things easier, here is complete information on making the right decision when it comes to content management system and some helpful recommendations.
What is a CMS?
A content management system is a web based application that is based on a database (usually MySQL) or other methods for performing functions like creating, editing and storing the HTML content. This is done in a way so that the content is easily manageable. The content is created and edited in the administration section of the system that is also known as the back end. The resulting content is showcased on the website for the viewers, also known as the front end.
Why should I use a CMS?
There are various possible reasons for using a CMS, however, the main reason is to simplify the process of creating and editing the content. Content just does not include the text; at times, the content on the website maybe the contact form or user authentication process. The trick is to find a content management system that provides with complete functionality without compromising on the ease of use. A good CMS will enable you to spend more time to focus on the design of the front end instead of spending time on implementing the extensions or functionality.
3 Most Common Mistakes While Selecting A Content Management System
Selecting A Geek Friendly CMS
The most important thing is that the web developers building the website must consider that everyone is not as tech savvy as they are. The most important aspect is whether the customers can use the website the way they want it or not. Therefore, in the long run, it will be better if you opt for a CMS that has a simplified interface, even if you have to take more efforts for customizing it according to the customer’s requirements.
The Bigger The Better
Don’t be swiped of with the promises of a huge and helpful community and all the extensions and plugins the CMS has to offer. Also, just because many people are using a particular CMS, does not mean that it will create the same value for you. You have to take your needs into consideration. Opting for a CMS just because of its customer following will not create value on a long term. The functionality that will be created is the main factor.
No Enough Research
Research is extremely important when it comes to deciding about a CMS. Check the websites that are given as examples. If possible get in contact with the website owners and discuss about the advantages and disadvantages of using the respective CMS. Also, if possible talk to the developers and keep an open mind. Check all the features offered by the prominent content management systems you use and analyze how they can be synchronized with your website requirements. Moreover, checking the online reviews is also beneficial for making the right decision.
What to Look For In A CMS?
There are many aspects to be considered while selecting a content management system, here are a few most important ones:
- Fast and easy installation
- Simple administrative interface
- Quick and easy extension for better functionality
- Simple template handling
- Helpful user community
Hint : Look for a CMS that seems appealing to you so that it can be out to optimum use. User friendly interface is also one of the most crucial factors. Performing your own research is always important before you invest your time and energy in any of the content management systems.
The Most Promising CMS’s Of 2013 And Onwards:
Drupal
Drupal is one of the most functional and easy to access CMS available today. It enables the editing of the content directly on the page and it is can be extended with the use of modules. Themes can be easily created with this CMS and it is one of the most functional and easy to use content management systems. This CMS has received appreciation for the utility created and rapid build time. One of the biggest advantages of Drupal is that websites created with this CMS, can be modified easily and rapidly by making the respective changes in the modules.
WordPress
WordPress is more popular among the bloggers. It is low cost and easy to use; if you are computer savvy, you can easily work with WordPress. With WordPress you enter the do-it-yourself world where you can take care of any issues with the information available on the net. WordPress also provides with efficient plugins that help in optimizing the search engine results; thereby providing you with a better web presence. In case you have a large website that contains of different sections, you can give access of the website to the authorized personnel; this helps in distributing the responsibility of website management. People can be provided access in accordance with different security levels making it a secure system overall.
Related – Excellent eCommerce Plugins For WordPress
Joomla
Joomla is a widely used content management system. The developers all around the world contribute in terms of creating extensions and modules that can be seamlessly synchronized in the website. This goes on to say that there are some free components and some paid components that can be utilized for your web development project. Joomla simplifies the process of managing and updating content. With Joomla, the functions like adding new website pages, editing the old pages, uploading pictures etc. can be easily performed once the website is setup. Joomla provides with many eCommerce components as well; therefore it is preferred for online store websites as well. It’s a powerful CMS that helps you to effectively manage the blog, content and eCommerce website as well.
DotNetNuke
DotNetNuke also known as DNN; provides benefits to website developers, web designers, content managers and organizations. This makes it an ideal CMS choice for any website. Working with DotNetNuke is easy; irrespective of whether you are using DotNetNuke as a website builder or as a web application. It comprises of many efficient built-in features that can be used for your website. DotNetNuke enables you to add efficient features to your websites like blogs, forums, feedback forms and much more. For managing your content with DotNetNuke, no technical knowledge is required, it can be easily done with user friendly interfaces provided by DotNetNuke.
When it comes to selecting a CMS, you must first take your website requirements into consideration in order to make the most appropriate decision. This does not mean that the other factors are not important for making the right decision. Preferably, keep your wish list short, keep an eye on the future and you will get the best.
