“Websites promote you 24/7: No employee will do that.”
— Paul Cookson
Want your website to work for you around the clock? A great way to achieve this is by making it visually appealing and easy to use. The good news? Content Management Systems (CMS) can make this a breeze.
Well, CMS development has changed how we build and manage websites. With the global CMS market set to reach $123.5 billion in revenue by 2026, it’s clear these systems are revolutionizing web design.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how Content Management System Development can simplify your web design process. You’ll learn about the benefits of using a CMS, the different types available, and get practical tips for picking the right one for your needs.
What is a CMS in Web Design?
A CMS, or Content Management System, is a tool that helps you create, edit, and manage website content without needing technical skills. It provides a user-friendly interface for handling text, images, and other media.
And it’s not just us saying this. Over 80 million websites worldwide rely on CMSs to power their online presence. That’s nearly 40% of the entire internet!
What Does a CMS Do for You?
- Easy Content Creation: With a CMS, you can easily create and manage content without any tech skills. Updating text, images, or videos is a breeze.
- Streamlined Collaboration: Streamlined Collaboration: With CMS development, multiple people can work on your site at the same time. You can set roles and permissions so that everyone knows who can edit, approve, or publish content.
- Centralized Management: Everything you need is stored in one spot, making it simple to organize and find your content whenever you need it.
- Flexible Design Options: CMS platforms come with customizable templates and themes. This means you can update the look and feel of your site without needing a developer.
Also read: What is Custom Software Development – A Detailed Overview
Ready to see how a CMS makes your website run smoothly? Let’s explore how it actually works.
How Does a CMS Work?
A Content Management System (CMS) works by separating content creation and management from website development, making it easier for non-technical users to manage a website.
A CMS consists of two core parts: the Content Management Application (CMA) and the Content Delivery Application (CDA).
- Content Management Application (CMA): This is where you create and modify your website’s content. You don’t need any coding skills—just use the CMA’s user-friendly interface to add text, images, or videos.
- Content Delivery Application (CDA): The CDA works behind the scenes, taking the content you’ve created and presenting it on your website. It handles all the backend processes to ensure your visitors can access the content smoothly.
Here’s a quick rundown of how it operates:
- Content Creation: Users create content through a user-friendly editor in the CMS. This editor allows for easy text formatting, media insertion, and layout adjustments without needing coding skills.
- Database Storage: The CMS stores content in a database, keeping all text, images, and multimedia organized. This separation of content and design allows for flexible content management and updates.
- Templates and Themes: The CMS uses pre-designed templates and themes to control the look and feel of the site. Users can select or customize these to ensure consistent styling without altering the core content.
- Content Management: The CMS provides tools for organizing and managing content, including categories, tags, and menus. This organization helps in presenting content logically and navigating the site efficiently.
- Publishing: Once content is ready, the CMS handles its publishing process. It updates the website in real-time or according to a set schedule, ensuring that changes are reflected immediately.
- User Roles and Permissions: The CMS allows for different user roles, each with specific permissions. This feature controls who can create, edit, or publish content, facilitating collaborative work while maintaining content security.
Also read: The Process of Custom Software Development: A Step-by-step Guide
Now that you know how a CMS works, let’s look at the different types you can choose from.
What are the Types of CMS in Web Design?
When it comes to building websites, Content Management Systems (CMS) have become the go-to tools for many web designers. In fact, over 60% of the top 1 million websites use a CMS, making them a crucial part of the modern web development landscape.
But with so many different CMS options available, how do you decide which one is right for your project? Let’s break down the most common types and see which one might be the perfect fit for your needs.
| Type of CMS | Description |
| Enterprise Content Management (ECM) | Manages all types of data including documents, web pages, and multimedia across an organization. |
| Document Management System (DMS) | Handles document creation, review, and collaboration, supporting formats like PDF and Word. |
| Web Content Management System (WCMS) | Specialized for creating and managing website content without needing coding skills. |
| Component Content Management System (CCMS) | Manages content at a granular level, such as individual words or images, for more detailed control. |
Now let’s take an in-depth view of each.
1. Enterprise Content Management (ECM)
IBM FileNet, showcasing a leading ECM solution
Commonly Used For:
- Organizing your company’s data: ECM brings together all your documents, images, and web pages in one place, making them easy to find and manage.
- Staying compliant: ECM helps you keep track of important documents and ensures you’re following all the rules and regulations.
Key Features:
- Centralized storage: During CMS development, all your documents are organized and stored in one secure location.
- Strong security: ECM protects your sensitive information with advanced security features.
- Automated tasks: ECM can automate tasks like document approvals, streamlining CMS development and saving you time.
- Integration with other systems: ECM works seamlessly with other systems like CRM and ERP.
Examples:
- IBM FileNet: A popular ECM solution known for its scalability and comprehensive features.
- OpenText ECM: Another top-tier ECM platform that offers extensive functionalities for document and records management.
2. Document Management System (DMS)
Microsoft SharePoint, a robust document management system.
Commonly Used For:
- Keeping track of your documents: DMS helps you manage different versions of your documents and ensure everyone’s working on the latest one.
- Collaborating with others: DMS allows multiple people to work on a document at the same time, making it easy to share and edit content.
Key Features:
- Easy searching: DMS lets you find documents quickly using keywords or tags.
- Security: DMS controls who can view, edit, or delete documents, enhancing protection for sensitive information during CMS development.
- Digitizing documents: You can scan physical documents and store them digitally in DMS.
- Automated tasks: DMS can automate routine tasks, such as routing documents for approval, streamlining processes during CMS development.
Examples:
- Microsoft SharePoint: A popular DMS that works well with Microsoft Office and offers great collaboration tools.
- M-Files: Known for its smart organization, M-Files uses metadata to find documents efficiently.
3. Web Content Management System (WCMS)
WordPress, representing a popular WCMS platform.
Commonly Used For:
- Creating and managing your website: WCMS makes it easy to build and update your website without needing to know how to code.
- Running digital marketing campaigns: WCMS simplifies CMS development by helping you create and manage content for your marketing campaigns, such as landing pages and banners.
Key Features:
- Simple to use: WCMS platforms have user-friendly interfaces, so you can create and manage content easily.
- Better SEO: WCMS helps your website rank higher in search results.
- Consistent look and feel: You can use templates during CMS development to keep your website looking great.
- Global reach: WCMS supports multiple languages, so you can reach people all over the world.
Examples:
- WordPress: The most popular WCMS, known for its flexibility and ease of use.
- Joomla: A powerful WCMS with advanced features like user management and multilingual support.
4. Component Content Management System (CCMS)
Adobe FrameMaker, used for detailed technical documentation in a CCMS.
Commonly Used For:
- Creating technical documentation: CCMS streamlines CMS development by helping you manage and create detailed technical documents, like user manuals and specifications.
- Reusing content: CCMS allows you to reuse content across different documents, saving time and ensuring consistency.
Key Features:
- Detailed management: CCMS manages content at a very granular level, so you can reuse and repurpose individual parts.
- Version control: CCMS tracks changes to each part of your content, making it easy to manage updates during CMS development.
- Content reuse: You can reuse content across multiple documents, saving time and ensuring consistency.
- Multi-channel publishing: CCMS lets you publish content on different platforms, like web, print, and mobile.
Examples:
- Adobe FrameMaker: A powerful tool for managing complex technical documents.
- IXIASOFT CCMS: A specialized CCMS designed for managing technical content with advanced features.
Finding the Right CMS For You
Selecting the ideal CMS depends on your unique needs. Here are key factors to consider:
- The size of your website: A basic site may only require a Web Content Management System (WCMS), while a larger organization might benefit from an Enterprise Content Management (ECM) system.
- Your team’s technical skills: For those who aren’t very tech-savvy, a user-friendly WCMS might be the most practical choice.
- Your budget: CMS options vary in cost, so it’s important to choose one that fits within your budget constraints.
Looking to Elevate Your Website’s Design?
At Codewave, our UI/UX design services ensure your site isn’t just functional but also captivating and user-friendly. Get a design that speaks to your brand and engages visitors seamlessly.
Curious why CMS development can transform your web design? Let’s find out how it makes a difference!
Ways CMS Development Enhances Your Web Design
Feeling bogged down by the challenges of traditional web design? Say goodbye to complicated coding and constant updates! CMS development puts you in control, making it easier than ever to manage your content and work together with your team.
Did you know that almost 43.6% of all websites run on custom CMS platforms? That’s because these solutions give you amazing flexibility and control. So, why stick with a basic template when you can build a site that really shows off your brand?
Let’s explore the key benefits that make a CMS a must-have for your website.
No Coding Required
With CMS development, you don’t need to know any code to manage your website. The platforms offer user-friendly tools that make it easy to add or update content, images, and videos. This means you can make changes quickly, without waiting for a developer. It’s perfect for anyone looking to keep their website up-to-date without learning complex programming skills.
Effortless Teamwork
A CMS allows you to easily invite team members to collaborate on your site. You can set up specific roles and permissions, ensuring that each person knows exactly what they can do, like editing, approving, or publishing content. This helps streamline your workflow and avoids any confusion or accidental changes, making team collaboration smoother and more efficient.
Built-In Tools
CMS platforms come with a variety of built-in tools and plugins, such as SEO tools, analytics, and social media integrations. Thanks to CMS development, these features are designed to enhance your site’s functionality and performance effortlessly. You can boost your search engine rankings, track visitor behavior, and manage your content more effectively, all without needing to write extra code.
Schedule and Update
With a CMS, you can plan and schedule your content well in advance, ensuring a steady flow of new material. Updating your site is also straightforward—you can make changes instantly from anywhere, without needing a developer’s help. This keeps your site fresh, relevant, and engaging for your visitors, while also allowing you to react quickly to any necessary changes or updates.
Automated Maintenance
One of the best features of CMS development is its ability to handle routine maintenance tasks automatically. This includes regular backups, updates, and security checks, ensuring your site stays secure and runs smoothly. You won’t have to worry about remembering to perform these tasks manually, freeing up your time to focus on creating great content and growing your business.
Want to keep your CMS running smoothly, handling backups and updates like a champ?
Free yourself from technical headaches – explore Codewave’s Process Automation services for a worry-free website!
Custom Content
CMS development allows you to easily adjust and personalize your content to meet your specific needs. You can quickly make changes to text, images, or layout without any technical expertise, ensuring your website always reflects your current business goals. Additionally, most CMS platforms integrate seamlessly with other tools like email marketing software and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, keeping everything aligned with your business strategies.
Archive with Ease
CMS development makes it simple to keep and organize past content for future use. You can easily archive articles, images, or any other materials, making them readily available whenever you need them again. This not only saves time but also helps you repurpose valuable content, ensuring that nothing goes to waste and that your site remains rich with relevant information.
SEO and Mobile Friendly
CMS platforms are built with search engine optimization (SEO) and mobile accessibility in mind. They offer built-in features that make your site more visible in search engine results, driving more traffic to your pages. Additionally, CMS development ensures that your site is responsive, meaning it looks great and functions smoothly on any device, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or desktop.
Looking to take your website’s mobile experience to the next level?
Codewave specializes in mobile app development that complements your CMS, ensuring a seamless and engaging user experience on every device.
Wondering which CMS platform best suits your needs? Let’s look at the top choices to consider!
Most Loved CMS Platforms
Choosing a CMS can feel overwhelming, but the right platform can transform how you manage your website. From simple blogs to complex eCommerce sites, each platform offers unique features tailored to different needs.
Let’s look at the best options and find out which one suits you best.
WordPress
WordPress is the most popular CMS out there, powering 62.6% of all sites where we know the CMS, which is about 43.4% of all websites. It’s not just popular because it’s easy to use—it’s also packed with tons of plugins and themes.
WordPress user-friendly interface.
Pros:
- User-friendly: Easy to learn and use, even for non-techies.
- Vast plugin ecosystem: Thousands of plugins available to extend functionality.
- Customization options: Easily customize your website’s design and layout.
- Large community: A supportive community of users and developers.
Cons:
- Security: Can be vulnerable to security threats if not properly maintained.
- Performance: Can become slow with excessive plugins or themes.
- Limited control: Some advanced customization might require coding knowledge.
Pricing:
- Free: WordPress itself is free to use.
- Hosting: You’ll need to pay for hosting, which typically starts around $3 per month.
- Premium themes and plugins: Optional, but can add to costs.
Shopify
If you’re into eCommerce, Shopify is your best friend. With over 1.7 million merchants already on board, it’s clear why. Shopify makes selling online easy with built-in payment processing and 24/7 customer support. Whether you’re selling a few products or hundreds, Shopify scales with your business.
Shopify storefront, demonstrating built-in eCommerce features.
Pros:
- Easy to use: Simple setup process and user-friendly interface.
- Built-in features: Includes payment processing, shipping, and marketing tools.
- Scalability: Grows with your business, from small to large.
- 24/7 support: Dedicated customer support available around the clock.
Cons:
- Transaction fees: Charges transaction fees on all sales.
- Limited customization: Less flexible than some other CMS platforms.
- Can be expensive: Monthly plans can be costly, especially for larger stores.
Pricing:
- Basic: $39 per month (or $29 per month when billed annually).
- Shopify: $105 per month (or $79 per month when billed annually).
- Advanced: $399 per month (or $299 per month when billed annually).
Drupal
Need something more powerful and secure? Drupal is built for large-scale websites that need robust performance and advanced security. It’s perfect for enterprises looking for high customization and strong data protection. In fact, Drupal is used by 1.3% of all websites with known content management systems, making up 0.9% of all websites globally.
Drupal’s Feature Wise Arrangement.
Pros:
- Powerful and flexible: Highly customizable and scalable for large-scale projects.
- Robust security: Built-in security features to protect your website.
- Community-driven: A strong community of developers and contributors.
- Performance optimization: Designed for high-traffic websites.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve: Can be more complex to learn and use than other CMS platforms.
- Requires technical expertise: Often requires developers to customize and maintain.
- Higher costs: Can be more expensive to implement and maintain.
Pricing:
- Free: Drupal itself is free to use.
- Hosting: You’ll need to pay for hosting, which can vary depending on your needs.
- Premium themes and modules: Optional, but can add to costs.
Joomla
Joomla offers great flexibility with a variety of extensions and templates, making customization straightforward for any website type. It’s ideal for users who want control without needing to code, supporting everything from blogs to e-commerce sites. Joomla powers 2.4% of known CMS sites, or 1.6% of all websites, showcasing its versatility.
Joomla Benefits and Features.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface: Easy to learn and use, with a drag-and-drop editor.
- Flexibility: Can be used for a variety of website types.
- Large community: A supportive community of users and developers.
- Regular updates: Continuously updated with new features and security patches.
Cons:
- Less popular than WordPress: Smaller market share than WordPress.
- Can be complex for beginners: Might require more technical knowledge than some other CMS platforms.
- Limited customization options: Fewer plugins and themes compared to WordPress.
Pricing:
- Free: Joomla is free to use.
- Hosting: You’ll need a hosting plan, typically starting around $5 per month.
- Extensions and templates: Many extensions and templates are free, but premium options can cost.
Magento
For big eCommerce businesses, Magento is a powerhouse. It’s packed with features for managing products, handling multiple stores, and analyzing sales data. With Magento used by 0.6% of all websites with known content management systems, you can trust it to handle large inventories and provide detailed analytics as your business grows.
Magento Features, Comprehensive eCommerce Solutions.
Pros:
- Scalability: Designed for large-scale e-commerce operations.
- Advanced features: Includes features for product management, marketing, and analytics.
- Customization options: Highly customizable to meet your specific needs.
- Strong community: A large community of developers and users.
Cons:
- Complex to learn: Requires technical expertise to set up and manage.
- Expensive: Can be costly to implement and maintain.
- Limited hosting options: Fewer hosting providers specialize in Magento.
Pricing:
- Magento Commerce: Starts at $22,000 per year.
- Magento Open Source: Free to use, but requires hosting and maintenance.
So why are developers so into CMS? Let’s find out what makes it their favorite tool!
Why Developers Love CMS Development
CMS development has taken the web world by storm. It’s like having a magic wand that lets you build and manage websites with ease. Developers love it because it’s faster, easier, and more fun than traditional coding.
Here’s why CMS is a developer’s dream:
Easy Updates
With CMS platforms, you don’t need to dive into code for every small change. These systems offer intuitive tools that let you update text, images, or videos effortlessly. Imagine a control panel where you can instantly tweak your site’s content with just a few clicks, keeping everything current and accurate.
Handle Multiple Sites Effortlessly
If you manage several websites, CMS development platforms make it straightforward. You can oversee all your sites from a single dashboard, simplifying tasks like content updates and site monitoring. This central management streamlines your workflow, saving time and reducing complexity.
Keep Your Site Secure
98% of web applications face security risks, such as malware or malicious redirects. CMS platforms help protect your site with regular security updates, acting like a personal security guard. These updates fix vulnerabilities and keep your site safe from cyber-attacks. Regular maintenance ensures your website stays secure and runs smoothly.
Need extra peace of mind and protection for your website?
Codewave’s penetration and vulnerability testing services find and fix security gaps before hackers can exploit them. Get ahead of potential threats and safeguard your site today!
Seamless Tool Integration
Integrate your CMS development with various third-party tools and services without any coding. This feature allows you to add functionalities like analytics, email marketing, or social media sharing easily. It’s like enhancing your site’s capabilities with new features just by plugging in additional tools.
Assign Roles with Ease
CMS development platforms let you define specific roles and permissions for different users. This means you can assign tasks like content creation, editing, or publishing to various team members, ensuring everyone has the right access to contribute effectively. It’s a structured way to manage your team and streamline site operations.
Looking to make your website a showstopper?
Codewave’s design thinking services can help you create a CMS-powered website that’s both functional and visually stunning. Let’s turn your website dreams into a reality!
Getting Started with Building Your CMS Website
- Choose the Right CMS: There are many CMS options out there. For example, WordPress is user-friendly and flexible, Joomla offers a variety of extensions, and Drupal is great for advanced customization. Pick one that matches your needs and goals.
- Get Your Domain Name: Your website needs its unique address on the web—this is your domain name. It should be a clear reflection of your brand or business. Opt for a name that is easy to remember, spell, and type, as this helps visitors find your site quickly and easily. A well-chosen domain name is crucial for building your online identity.
- Find a Web Host: A web host provides the server space where your website lives online. Choose a hosting provider that offers reliable uptime, good customer support, and security features. Reliable hosting ensures that your website is consistently accessible and performs well, which is essential for retaining visitors and maintaining a professional online presence.
- Install Your CMS: Installing your CMS is the foundational step in creating your website. Follow the step-by-step installation guide provided by the CMS platform to set it up correctly. Ensure all settings are properly configured so your site functions smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation is key to avoiding issues down the line.
- Add Plugins for Extra Features: In CMS development, plugins are tools that add extra functionalities to your CMS without needing to code. For example, you can use plugins to add contact forms, e-commerce capabilities, or SEO tools. Select plugins that align with your site’s objectives to enhance its features and improve user experience. They make it easy to customize your site’s capabilities to meet your needs.
- Customize Your Website’s Design: Customizing your website’s design is where you create a unique look that represents your brand. Use the design tools and themes available in your CMS to match your brand’s style. Adjust colors, fonts, and layouts to achieve a visually appealing and cohesive site. This step helps establish your brand identity and attract visitors.
- Upload Your Content: In CMS development, uploading content is where your website starts to take shape. Add engaging text, images, and videos that are relevant to your audience and reflect your brand’s message. Organize your content in a way that is easy to navigate and ensures a positive user experience. Well-structured content is crucial for engaging visitors and achieving your website’s goals.
Next, let’s explore how Codewave can make your CMS website vision a reality.
Codewave’s Design and Development Services
Need help getting started with your CMS website? Codewave is here to guide you every step of the way. From choosing the right CMS to customizing your design, we’ll work closely with you to create a website that’s both beautiful and functional.
Here’s how we can make it happen:
- Custom CMS Development: Get a CMS built just for you, fitting exactly what you need for your site.
- UI/UX Design: Enjoy a website that’s not only easy to use but also looks great and draws people in.
- Web Development: Create a solid, reliable website with Codewave’s expert development team.
- Mobile App Development: Reach your audience on the go with custom apps that keep them engaged.
With Codewave, your CMS project will be in great hands, ensuring your website shines and performs beautifully.
That brings us to the end of the blog, let’s wrap up!
Conclusion
Managing your website with CMS development is like having a smart, efficient helper. You can easily update content, work with your team, and keep your site secure—all without breaking a sweat.
As Dr. Christopher Dayagdag wisely said, “A website without visitors is like a ship lost on the horizon.” Your website needs to be seen and heard to make a splash. That’s where Codewave comes in.
Here at Codewave, we’re experts in crafting custom CMS solutions. We’ll help you choose the right platform, design a user-friendly website, and empower your team to manage your content with ease. Let us help you navigate the exciting world of CMS development and set your website on a course for success.
Visit us at Codewave to learn more!Also worth reading: Why Custom Developed Software is a Game Changer: Top Benefits for Your Business
