Content Management System (CMS): a simple-to-use website for everybody

You’ve been told that an easy way to have a website is to use a CMS.  You thank the person who offered this advice and immediately go to Google and type in “What is a CMS?”.  The information that pops up has phrases like “control the content without HTML knowledge” or “provides capabilities for multiple users with different permission levels to manage (all or a section of) content”.  What?

 

You want an easy to use website.  Really easy.  Not easy for a tech-savvy type, but easy for someone running her own business and no time for figuring this stuff out.  Or easy for an employee who is eager to help, but is nervous about taking this on.

So what the heck is a CMS?

Let’s start with what a content management system (CMS) is and what it can do for you.  At its most basic level, this is a website where you can easily add, edit or change the content (information, words, photos, etc) on the pages.  If you have the capability to use a Word document, you can probably use a CMS.  This allows you or a staff member to immediately make a change without going through a third party.

There are many CMS options depending on your needs.  With some platforms, such as WordPress, Joomla or Blogger, you can quickly create your own website or blog for free with very little technical knowledge.  Through a quick search online, you will discover an overwhelming amount of choices.  There are free options for every type of business whether you want a blogging site, a portfolio site, a photography site or an e-commerce site.

I get it, now what?

These free options are a great choice to get you started, but you may be at the stage where you want to expand your web presence.  This might mean hiring a developer to create your CMS site with the specific functionality you need for your unique business, but having the ability to control the content and make the updates yourself.

Hiring a developer can help guide you toward the type of website you want if you’re not really sure where to start.  Once the site is complete it is handed off to you to manage.  You won’t have to worry about sending emails to your developer with changes you’d like to make, such as adjusting your posted office hours because of a holiday or adding a new staff member’s contact information.  You can make all of these changes on your own quickly and easily.

If you have further questions about how a CMS works and what it can do for your business, send us a message or give us a call at 778-285-2288.