Whether you’re just starting out in your business or you’re looking to refurb your website, choosing a CMS, or content management system, can be a make or break step.
Perhaps you’re doing a DIY job, or perhaps you’re utilising the services of a web development agency – either way, it’ll likely be down to you to choose a CMS that is best suited to your business. Some Web development agency can help you on this.
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So, how do you go about doing so?
We’re here to dish the dirt.
Before we start, let’s define what a “CMS” actually is.
A CMS, or content management system, is a platform that helps you build, modify and run your website without having to custom code everything – aka a Godsend.
Ok, back to how to choose your CMS.
There are two key things to consider when choosing a CMS. Firstly, how well does the system support your business? Secondly, how easy is the system to use?
A balance of these is essential. After all, there’s no use having a CMS that fits your business perfectly if every time you want to make a modification to your website, it takes 2 weeks for you to figure out how to do it. In addition, if you’re working in a team or agency, bear in mind that multiple people will likely be using your system, so it needs to be something numerous people can easily understand.
Similarly, the most user-friendly system is no use to you if it doesn’t meet the needs of your business.
Beyond this, there are some finer details you need to consider.
1. Customisation
The beauty of a lot of content management systems is that they allow a ton of customisation options for websites and sets you up for success in terms of growing your business.
Some questions to ask might include…
- How many extensions are available?
- Are you limited to pre-designed themes?
- Does the system allow for coding options?
- Can I integrate this CMS with other platforms?
Most of these questions can be answered by reviewing the options available in the dashboard.
2. Cost
As all small business owners will know, money is often the deciding factor when it comes to most things. So when you’re choosing a CMS, the cost is definitely something to factor in. Typically content management systems offer monthly packages; some may even differ in price depending on the features you wish to have.
Some questions to ask might include…
- What is my budget?
- Do I want a one-off, annual or monthly payment set up?
- Will the cost of this CMS increase as my business grows?
- Does this CMS offer a free trial period?
3. Security
Losing your website in a sudden, unforeseen internet shortage? Crazier things have happened.
That’s why when choosing your CMS; security is a vital thing to consider. You want to feel confident in your system, knowing that if an issue arose, you wouldn’t lose all the world you’ve poured your sweat, blood and tears into.
Some questions to ask might include…
- Will I be manually backing up my site and content?
- Will I need to install security add-ons?
- Does the system allow for additional authentication such as 2FA?
- Will I need to purchase a security certificate?
Of course, there are so many more things to consider when choosing a CMS – we really have only scratched the surface. But as we said, start by considering the usability and how well the system serves your business’s needs and goals. Then consider the other driving factors like cost, security, customisation and so on.
