What is there to know about CMS website development?
In contrast to custom software development, in CMS website development, the processes are initiated from templates that can be adapted to the project's objective, which allows the realization in a short period of time, with less demanding programming requirements. In customized development, the starting point is construction from scratch using specific codes and programming languages, with more technical, longer and therefore more costly phases.
But what are CMSs and what are the advantages of building on them?
In a more technical definition, a Content Management System (CMS) "is software that allows you to create, edit and publish your own content, without the need for a lot of technical knowledge”, according to WordPress, one of the most widely used CMSs worldwide.
This last sentence is interesting because, as it does not require specific knowledge, it facilitates self-management, reducing post-build costs. However, a team of experts with programming knowledge is necessary to take full advantage of the technology of these softwares.
Other advantages offered by CMSs are the multiple tools they provide the developer to add calendars, maps and other extensions (plugins) that add value to the final result. In addition, when an unexpected failure occurs, support is usually easier compared to custom web development.
Recommended platforms for CMS website development include:
• WordPress. It is usually the CMS preferred by programmers due to the large capacity of plugins, its open code that allows diversifying the design, constantly improving security, creating versions of your website for mobiles and other aspects that position it as one of the most used managers.
Among other features to highlight, WordPress is one of the best content managers to position your brand in Google. In addition, they offer a 24/7 support service through their large community in forums or engineers willing to help you.
• Drupal. One of the features that customers look for in Drupal is its flexibility in terms of design and the robust security that the platform has, making it more difficult for intruders to penetrate it. Large companies around the world tend to prefer it. On the other hand, programmers can take advantage of its open-source code to get the most out of the layout of websites. In general, Drupal is well suited for developers, marketers and digital agencies.
• Wix. It can be considered one of the most popular CMS for its ease of use, its intuitive interface is popular among people outside the world of programming, for this same reason there are infinite limitations in the creation of websites with this CMS that does not offer solutions tailored to specific requests, resulting in sites with few eye-catching elements and very similar to each other.
CMS specialized in e-commerce
Unlike the previous ones, the following CMS are designed solely for e-commerce.
• Shopify. Like Wix, this CMS is famous among the non-programming community for the great versatility it offers through its templates, but the next level is the editing of the site through code and programming languages.
Shopify uses HTML and CSS languages, which offer the ability to create a customized product. In addition, it includes its own SEO tools, SSL certificate, receives different currencies for payments, has its own hosting and other advantages that represent a much stronger investment.
• PrestaShop. Among the most outstanding features are the different language options presented on the page, offering the possibility of expanding your shop in 75 languages, and also guarantees users and developers a secure, stable and evolving solution for all types of e-commerce. This CMS is recommended for small and medium-sized companies.
The versatility and customization of CMS projects is often one of the biggest advantages for small and medium-sized companies looking for a customizable, visually appealing website on a limited budget. In conclusion, developing a website with CMS is favourable for the programmer and the owner of the portal, for the latter, it represents the possibility to self-manage your project and the first step to add a customized extension designed for specific solutions after your project evolves.
Learn more about the importance of a website for your business.