CMS Website Design Services.
Overview
Most clients want full control over their website and do not want to pay a developer for simple updates, like adding photos or a few lines of text. We offer CMS (Content Management System) solutions that facilitate hassle-free site updates via user-friendly administration panels that are as easy as using Microsoft Word.
From simple informational sites to ecommerce and mobile solutions, we can build a CMS appropriate for your business needs. For complex websites we utilize an in-house CMS that was built for feature-rich interfaces with proprietary functionality. For simple websites, such as informational or ecommerce sites, we use free open source platforms like WordPress and Magento, which provide ultimate flexibility for both developers and clients.
Our Content Management System Philosophy
First and foremost, we do not believe in tying client’s hands by locking them into a license-based CMS scenario. Many development companies push their home-grown platforms, which require monthly licensing fees and lead to major headaches should clients ever choose to go elsewhere for development needs. In some cases, when you stop paying your are locked out of your website and it may be taken offline.
We promote free and open-source platforms that do not require licensing fees and have no hidden costs or agendas. Our in-house CMS was first built over 5 years ago and has been thoroughly tested and updated for optimal performance.
The 3rd party CMS platforms we prefer are those that have been vetted by developers and clients around the globe, and that have proven to be solid foundations for business websites. WordPress, for example, was created in 2003, has released 80 version updates, has been translated in 40 languages. It powers over 72 million websites worldwide, and is still growing rapidly.
Our Content Management System Process
Every business is different, and has unique requirements for content management. We start by analyzing your needs and discussing how we can make your life easier by providing efficient tools for keeping your site fresh and up to date, Once we determine your business goals and map out the nature of your website, we make recommendations for an appropriate CMS platform.
Planning Phase
– Business Analysis
– Creation of Sitemap and Unique Page Descriptions
– Selection of CMS Platform
– CMS Sitemap (complex sites only)
Development Phase
– CMS Coding
– Content Upload
– Client CMS Training
– Ongoing CMS Maintenance
CMS Rules of Thumb
When do you need a custom CMS?
The limits of open source off-the-shelf platforms, while quite robust, do have a threshold. For example, sites like Pinterest, Facebook or Orbitz could not be produced using WordPress or a similar CMS. Sites with proprietary functionality that require custom development require the use of custom Content Management Systems.
This scenario is comparable to looking through a book of prefabricated homes and requesting a size, shape, layout and amenities that aren’t default options for the manufacturer. To get exactly what you want, your home would need to be engineered to your specifications and built from the ground up. The pros are you can have anything you want, but the cons are increased cost. Custom CMS platforms are most appropriate for enterprise level websites or startups with social and/or community driven features.
When is an off-the-shelf CMS appropriate?
Free and open source platforms are appropriate for majority of small to large company websites, online stores, and sites for individuals like photographers, authors and personal trainers. In order to keep costs at a minimum and take advantage of incredibly powerful technology that has already been built and tested, open source solutions are the best option. Additionally, many clients are familiar with the most popular CMS systems and prefer to stick with what they know.
We specialize in WordPress, Drupal and Joomla for informational sites, and Magento and PrestaShop for ecommerce websites. We always implement the most up to date versions and stay abreast of current advances in trends and technology related to each platform. Also, we are advocates of mobile optimization, and the most popular CMS systems are highly adaptable to mobile development and responsive design.
