How to choose the right CMS platform
Don’t leave finding the right CMS (Content Management System) platform for your website down to chance.
It’s an important decision that will impact your website’s performance, plus how easy it is to use and scale up in the future!
What is a CMS platform?
CMS (Content Management System) is software that helps people create and manage websites, without requiring extensive coding knowledge.
CMS platforms have tools for creating and organising content, customising templates and design, managing users and SEO (Search Engine Optimisation).
Popular platforms include WordPress, Wix and HubSpot. But, there are over 800 CMS platforms available in 2023, so you are spoilt for choice! It doesn’t make it easy to narrow down which is right for your business though – so we’ve put together the ultimate checklist to consider, before leaping into anything!
What to think about when choosing the right CMS platform for your business
Define your requirements
The best place to start is by taking some time to think about your specific requirements for your website.
Consider factors such as the type of content you’ll be managing, how much customisation you’ll need, how scalable it needs to be and the technical expertise of your team.
Easy to use
Having a user-friendly CMS platform is essential, especially if you will have non-technical users managing the content.
Look for platforms with intuitive interfaces, drag-and-drop functionality and visual editors that make content creation and editing straightforward.
Scalability
It’s one thing finding a CMS matches your needs now, but what about the future?
Finding a flexible CMS platform that can handle increasing traffic, content volume and changing content without impacting performance, will make sure it can adapt and grow with your business.
Content management features
Take a close look at the CMS’s core content management features, such as content creation and editing.
Will the CMS support the specific content types you’ll be using, for instance text, images and videos? Does it provide collaboration tools for multiple content contributors? If not and this is important to your business, keep looking for a CMS platform that does!
Customisation
Another biggie is finding a CMS that makes customisation easy. Having a CMS that aligns with your branding and design requirements will save you time.
CMS platforms that allow you to easily modify the website’s design and layout, customise templates and extend functionality through plugins, themes or modules, work really well.
SEO capabilities
Choose a CMS that prioritises SEO, so you’ll have all the tools to enhance your website’s search engine ranking and attract more traffic.
Consider the CMS’s built-in SEO features or its ability to integrate with popular SEO plugins. Look for features such as customisable meta tags, SEO-friendly URLs, XML sitemap generation and easy content optimisation options to improve your site’s search engine visibility.
Security
Security is one of the biggest factors in choosing a CMS, with so much sensitive information contained on your website, it has to be secure.
Pay attention to the CMS’s security features, including user roles and permissions, data encryption and password protection.
Integration options
If you plan to use other e-commerce platforms, such as CRM systems and analytics tools, make sure the CMS is able to integrate with them!
Seamless integration can enhance your website’s functionality and make your life easier!
Cost
Make sure you find a CMS platform that fits with your budget! Beware of any hidden costs, consider the CMS’s licensing fees, hosting costs and any additional expenses related to themes, plugins or professional support.
Our team is experienced in handling CMS platforms and are happy to create and manage your content, on a CMS platform that best suits your business.
For a free virtual marketing ideas session with CMS experts, call us on 01962 600 147 or email info@tlc-business.co.uk
