Each system comes with its own benefits and drawbacks. It is important to find the best one for you.
Let's not stop there, let's get to it!
What's a CMS Platform?
CMS (content management system) is a platform that lets you create and manage content for your website.
You can use it for everything, from creating pages and posting to managing images or videos.
Good CMS software will allow you to easily update your website with new content and keep track of who made changes and when.
Reminder: A CMS is not a web builder.
CMS platforms allow you to manage your website's content, while website builders will design the layout and design of your site.
A website builder is a better development solution if you're looking for a simple platform to create a website without any management capabilities.
Types of CMS Platforms
CMS platforms are available for several decades.
The older CMS platforms are primarily focused on sharing content via the internet. These systems tend to be monolithic and have limited functionality.
Newer CMS platforms allow rich content to be shared across channels beyond the internet, including voice-activated technology and augmented and virtual reality apps, smartwatches, and mobile apps.
When discussing different content management systems, there are a few key points to remember. Monolithic, rigid systems tend to be web-based. Modern systems often called "headless", can share content with other systems.
These are not "website builders" in either case.
CMS Software Vs. Website Builders
Although CMS platforms share some similarities with website builders, technically they are quite different.
Your web server hosts a true content management system that allows you to create, store, search, and manage content, regardless of the way it appears on your website's front end.
A CMS is an essential component of a website builder. However, not all CMSs can be used as website builders.
A headless CMS, for example, is a way to separate the front-facing website (i.e. The design people see on your website is separated from the content database. This allows the CMS development team to choose the technology they want to create the website the way you want.
Developers can then pull all content from any other storage system. They simply need to connect the content system to the website design. Enterprise organizations prefer headless systems.
WordPress is the most widely used CMS for building websites. WordPress is not a website builder by itself, but it is closer than a headless CMS.
WordPress users can simultaneously do content creation and design their websites using a variety of plugins. WordPress is a popular cms web development platform for businesses due to its flexibility, affordability, and customizability.
True "website builders" systems work on a CMS but add tons of functionality and features. These builders include Squarespace and Wix. These are usually fully hosted, all-in-one solutions that eliminate the need to search for a server to store your content.
These tools make it so easy to build a website, especially for beginners. You can add content by dragging and dropping elements onto your screen, creating your website as you go.
We have now clarified what CMS is. Let's look at how you can choose the right CMS platform for your site.
How to Select the Best CMS Platform For You
There are many factors that go into choosing the right CMS platform for your business.
These are the five most important criteria you should consider when making a decision.
1. User-friendly
It should be simple to use the CMS that you select.
You should look for a CMS that has an intuitive interface and user-friendly tools. This will make it easier for your team to get up and running quickly.
WordPress's easy-to-use interface is one example. It is ideal for small businesses and bloggers that want to quickly get up and running without learning a lot of complicated commands.
2. Functionality
You should choose a CMS that has the necessary built-in features to manage your content.
You should ensure that the platform is capable of handling the content you create, as well as the volume. You should also find features that make publishing and managing content easier.
Many CMSs have drag-and-drop editors that allow easy customization and content formatting.
Consider the level of support provided by the platform provider. Will someone be available to help you if you have any questions about the CMS or how to customize it?
3. Extensions and add-ons
Extensions and add-ons should be possible with the CMS you choose. This will allow you flexibility for adding features as required.
You will need an API platform if you need to create custom websites or integrate with other platforms. This will make it easier to find compatible plugins and extensions that meet your needs.
Joomla is an excellent example of a CMS that has a vibrant add-on community. Extensions can be found to add almost any feature, including eCommerce and social media integration.
Many platforms also offer integrations with other popular services and tools. This makes it easy to use the platform without needing to set up many additional settings.
4. Pricing
The CMS that you choose should be cost-effective. Also, consider any extensions or add-ons that you might need.
Compare pricing across platforms to find the one that suits your needs.
WordPress, for example, is free while Joomla and Drupal have paid versions.
A CMS's average cost is between $100 and $5000 per year.
5. Security
Security is another important aspect. You should ensure that your CMS includes security features to protect your site from hackers and other malware.
You should ensure that the platform you choose has a strong security protocol and that your software is kept up to date.
For extra protection, you might also consider installing a third-party security plugin.
6. Data Portability
The best CMS platforms will include content management tools that enable you to easily export and move your data. You will need to be able to access all of your data if you decide to move your website to another platform.
7. Design Options
Easy-to-use content management systems tend to have many website design templates available.
A visual builder can be used to design web pages, rather than relying on backend systems for design.
A CMS platform allows you to create web pages in a way that is intuitive and easy to use for most people.
8. Customizability
An open-source CMS platform will allow you to have more control over your website.
Website builders that come with everything are usually the most limited in flexibility and customizable. These are ideal for business owners who don't require any fancy tools to start their websites.
It's important to consider the growth goals of your website. An all-in-one platform won't allow you to customize the code to your liking. These content management systems typically come with fewer plugins or add-ons that can be used to enhance functionality.
Websites that need customizability are better served by open-source CMS systems.
9. Support
Fully-hosted CMS platforms will often have customer support staff available who can assist in an emergency. Many of these platforms offer 24/7 support via chat or email.
Most content management systems don't offer this level of support. It's likely that you will be left on your own to solve technical problems in the CMS platform.
You'll get better advice if you have more users. WordPress, for example, has a large customer base from around the globe. Many forums and websites offer help for all kinds of WordPress-related issues.
Some popular content management systems of 2022
Each business may have a different ranking. This list can be used as a guide to help you select the best CMS for your business.
Let's now dive into the five best custom content management systems of 2022.
1. WordPress
WordPress is the most used content management application on the internet with more than 60% of websites using it.
It is free, open-source software you can use to build any kind of website from blogging platforms to complex eCommerce stores.
WordPress is easy to use even for beginners. There are many WordPress CMS development services and users that can help you get started.
Best for:
Websites of small to medium size, for beginners, or those who need a lot more flexibility and options
Pros:
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Open-source and free.
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Even for beginners, it is very easy to use.
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WordPress is home to a large community of users and developers who can help you get going.
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It is versatile and can be used for any type of website.
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It is easy to install and has various customization options. There are thousands of themes to choose from.
Cons:
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It is not as fast and as scalable as some of the options on this list.
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It may be necessary to have some programming knowledge in order to make custom and advanced changes.
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You will need to set up your domain name and hosting, as well as maintain security and backups.
Pricing:
WordPress is free to use. However, you will need your domain name and hosting. Hosting costs around $60/month, and domain names are around $12/year.
2. Joomla
Joomla is another popular content management platform with more than 15% of websites using it.
You can also use it to create any kind of website.
Joomla is slightly more complicated than WordPress, but there are many developers and users who will help you get started.
Best for:
Users who have coding knowledge and want to be more in control of their websites from medium to large sizes.
Pros:
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It is highly customizable and allows users to modify any aspect of their site.
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It is very secure and there are many developers who work constantly to keep it current.
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It has a large library of extensions and templates that allows users to add any functionality they desire.
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It is free and open-source. This means that anyone can modify it and improve it.
Cons:
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It is not as easy to use as the other options on this list.
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To use the program effectively, you will need to have a basic knowledge of technical subjects.
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If not managed properly, open-source software can cause security problems.
Pricing:
Joomla is available for free download and easy use. However, there are some extensions and templates that can be paid for. These extensions and templates are usually priced between $20 and $200.
3. Drupal
Drupal, a content management system, has been around for more than 15 years. It boasts a user base that exceeds a million.
It is also open-source software which means that anyone can modify and improve it.
Drupal is more complicated than Joomla and WordPress, but it offers greater control over website design and functionality.
Best for:
Users who have coding knowledge and large business who want to control their website design and functionality.
Pros:
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It is extremely customizable and a great fit for all businesses.
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SEO-friendly websites can rank higher on major search engine results pages.
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It is highly secure and is audited annually by security experts.
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A large user base and strong community mean that you will find plenty of support when you need it.
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It is constantly being improved and updated thanks to its developers.
Cons:
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For beginners, it can be overwhelming.
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It is not as easy to use as the other options on this list.
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This option requires more technical knowledge than others on the list.
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It can be quite expensive depending on the features you require.
Pricing:
Base price: $2000
Additional features: Prices can vary depending on what features you require, but range from $500 up to 5000.
4. Magento
Magento is a popular eCommerce Platform that can both be used by small and large businesses.
It is highly configurable and scalable making it an excellent choice for growing businesses.
Magento is expensive and difficult to set up and manage.
Best for:
Users who are able to code and have the ability to control their website design and functionality for medium-sized eCommerce companies.
Pros:
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Magento's flexibility allows you to design a website that suits your specific needs.
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It is a highly scalable platform that can handle large orders and traffic without any problems.
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Magento offers many features that make it an excellent choice for businesses of any size.
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Even for people with no programming knowledge, the platform is very easy to use.
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Magento experts and users are available to assist you in any way that they can.
Cons:
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Depending on what features you require, can be quite expensive
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To set up and manage, you will need to have some technical knowledge.
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This list is not as user-friendly as the other options.
Pricing:
Magento has a variety of pricing options starting at $299 per month.
5. Hubspot CMS Hub
HubSpot CMS Hub, a content management system designed to assist businesses in their online marketing, is HubSpot CMS Hub.
It features blogs, a landing page,s, and forms. It integrates with HubSpot's software for marketing automation.
HubSpot CMS Hub offers a great option for small businesses who want to manage their website themselves without hiring a developer.
Best for:
Companies who want to manage their website themselves without the need to hire a developer
Pros:
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It is easy to use and does not require any programming knowledge.
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This package includes a range of features that businesses can use for their online marketing.
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Integration with HubSpot's Marketing Automation Software, making it easy to track website visitors as well as leads.
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This is a great option for companies who want to manage their website themselves without hiring a developer.
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Regular updates with new features and enhancements.
Cons:
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This is not as customizable as the others.
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Some users may find it difficult to integrate it with HubSpot's software for marketing automation.
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For some businesses, the monthly subscription price may be prohibitive.
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It can be difficult to find the support or help you need.
Pricing:
HubSpot CMS Hub is a subscription-based service. Prices for the monthly service vary depending on what features you require, but they can be as low as $200 or high-end $800 each month.
Bottom line: Choose what CMS website development services are best for you
A content management system, or CMS, allows you to manage and transform your content into a website without having to write and edit. Some of these tools can be used to assist you while others allow you to manage your content and publish it online.
No matter what platform you choose, you will need to have some programming skills to elevate your CMS to the next level. Keep a team of developers and an SEO team on hand.
If you are seeking a professional custom CMS development company that can manage large-load websites. CIS would be the best choice. We have a team of dedicated CMS developers who can assist you in your web development project and gives you a beautiful website that caters to all your business needs.
