How to choose the Best CMS Platform

Now that you are ready to build a website, it’s time to choose the right one for you. A content management system (CMS) platform is your best option for creating your business website. Back when I was learning to build websites 20 years ago, I had to learn code. Some codes I learned are HTML and CSS. While it’s a good idea to know a web developer in case you hit a wall, a CMS platform allows you to create a website without learning or understanding these codes.

Now the market is full of CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, Joomla, Wix, Squarespace to name a few. Which one is right for you? Here are a few things to ask yourself:

What do you want your website to do?

Obviously, you would like brand awareness for your business but what do you want the website to do for you? Are you selling products or services? Will you be receiving payments on the site? Or is it information purposes only? Will you be hosting lots of video or images?

Is it user-friendly?

While using a CMS platform can make creating a website easy, some platforms have limitations like Wix and Squarespace. Know exactly what you need your site to do before choosing a platform because it will be harder to go around these restrictions especially if you don’t know code.

Does the CMS Platform have modules or plugins I need?

If there are limitations, do no fret. This is where modules, extensions or plugins come in. They are like apps for your website. For example, you would probably want an e-commerce store to your main site or have additional help with SEO for organic discovery.

What are my design options?

One of the fun parts of creating a website is designing it. Pick a platform that has a variety of design options so that you can easily go from one design to another losing data or switching platforms when you want to give your website a fresh facelift.

Does it have a good customer support?

Too many times, I have heard that people hate their CMS platform because of poor customer service. Unfortunately, you find this out too late when you already have put hours and hours on your website. Please read reviews and articles to help you find the right one for you.

How much will it cost?

Some CMS platforms can be free while others have a monthly or annual fee. It all really depends on what fits your budget but most importantly what you want the website to do for you. Many even have a price plan depending on your needs. Don’t forget to factor in your domain name and hosting fees if your CMS platform will not be taking care of that.

Need helping choosing a CMS platform? Contact me and I can help you choose the right one for you.