I was speaking with someone today about how using a Content Management System (CMS) can help them have more control over their small business website and was surprised to learn that she wasn’t familiar with the term. This was interesting to me as I thought it was a fairly well known term and was also sort of self explanatory. Alas, I was wrong. So it occurs to me that some of you might not be clear on the concept either, and I wanted to help you out with that confusion.
According to Wikipedia, a Web Content Management System “allows non-technical users to make changes to a website with little training. A WCMS typically requires a systems administrator and/or a web developer to set up and add features, but it is primarily a website maintenance tool for non-technical staff.”
I usually explain it by saying that a CMS helps to keep the content and design separate, so business owners can feel comfortable maintaining and updating the content of their web site without worrying about messing up the design or layout of the site.
A Content Management System is a great thing for small businesses to have incorporated into their website because it gives them more control over their website content without having to engage or track down a web designer every time they want to make a small change to their site. Sure, you should have one around for when you need the extra help, but as a business owner or manager, you should also be able to update content or add specials and new services/products without incurring a bill each time.
WordPress is a very popular CMS, used on over 22% of all websites (that’s a LOT!). Much of the reason that WordPress has become so popular is due to its low learning curve, flexibility and stability. beyond the office helps business move their current website to the WordPress platform, or create a new website based on WordPress. We also offer one-on-one coaching and video based training for those that want to learn more about working with this great CMS.