Choosing a Content Management System

Creating a static web page--one that serves only to provide visitors with information--is simple. HTML code is very easy to learn, and many providers offer templates that don't require any coding on the webmaster's part. A dynamic site with regular updates, user-submitted content, online stores, forums, and other bells and whistles requires much more advanced programming knowledge. A content management system (CMS) allows you to add dynamic features to your site without hiring a professional programmer. Even webmasters with the necessary coding background can benefit from using a CMS, since most of the work is already done for you. There are lots of content management systems available, so it's important to find the one that's right for you.

The first thing to consider when choosing a content management system is cost. Some content management systems are available completely free of charge, while others cost hundreds or thousands dollars. A few have different pricing schemes depending on how they will be used. Usually, such programs are free for non-commercial sites, but require a paid license if your site is selling a product or service. When considering a CMS, you'll need to read the terms of use to make sure that you can legally use the program for your web site.

Once you've eliminated the content management systems that are out of your price range, you'll need to determine which of the remaining ones will run on your server's operating system. You'll also need to find out what types of databases (a robust CMS will almost certainly require one) and scripting languages are required to run the CMS. If you're running your own server, you can install the necessary components. Otherwise, you'll be restricted to the database formats and scripts available through your provider. With cost and technological limitations determined, your list of potential content management systems should be considerably more focused. Now it's time to start looking at functionality. Make a list of all the things that you want, or might want, your web site to do, and organize them in order of priority. For example, if your site sells DVDs, a sample list might include: an online store with customizable or DVD-specific product fields (running time, MPAA rating, cast and crew information, etc.); the ability to play movie clips in all popular formats;a user reviews and/or ratings system; and an RSS feed aggregator (for streaming news from popular movie sites).

Now that you know what functions are most important for your site, you can start comparing your list to the features of various content managements systems and eliminate those that do not meet your needs. You can narrow the list down further by testing online demos or visiting sites that use the CMS and marking off the ones that are buggy, slow, or difficult to use. Once you've narrowed your list down to two or three packages, download the trial or demo versions of the software and set them up on your system. This will allow you to get some hands-on experience with the programs and decide which one will work best for the site you want to create. Whether you're an experienced webmaster or just starting out, content management systems can allow you to create a more dynamic, feature-rich site.

For the more advanced features, installing a CMS is cheaper than hiring a programmer and less time-consuming than doing the programming yourself. While downloading or purchasing the first CMS you find that meets your site's requirements will get the job done, your site will be better in the long run if you spend a little time researching the available options