what is a cms and do i need one?
DESCRIPTION
Using a content management system to maintain your website is becoming a more popular option as more systems enter the market. Should you continue to send web content updates to your web team or is a CMS right for you? This webinar will explain exactly what a CMS is and the different levels of content management available. We will also go over the pros and cons of using a CMS so you can determine if one is right for you.TRANSCRIPT
What is a CMS and Do I Need One?
Hall Web Services
Who We Are
Alayna WhiteCMS Manager/[email protected]
Hall Web Serviceswww.hallme.com
• 11 Years in Business
@Hall_Web
@CMS_Girl
Got Questions?
• Use GoToWebinar “Ask a Question”
• Twitter with @hall_web
About You:
What You'll Learn: What a CMS is and the different types available
If the responsibilities of using a CMS make it a good choice for your website management
How a CMS can be fully utilized to improve your website
You have heard about Web Content Management Systems (CMS) and perhaps some of the names such as WordPress, Drupal and Joomla, but do not know exactly what they are
You want to maintain content for your website but are not sure if you are up to the responsibility
What is a Web CMS?• Software for creating and
managing content that appears on your website
• Typically web based with a database-driven administration area
• A way for non-technical users to update a website, but usually requires a web developer to set up and configure
Commercial Vs. Open Source• More expensive
• Generally more stable and optimized in all areas
• Often has more longevity
• One company/group responsible
• Free Download
• Often many consulting firms can help install and configure
• Can customize code
• Anyone can contribute to fix bugs and add functionality
Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/9619972@N08/1749731173/
Different Levels of Web Based CMSs
Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lexrex/247337810/
• Blog Software Based– Example: WordPress
• Full CMS– Example: Joomla, Drupal
• Custom Solutions– Example: In House Product
Advantages of Using a CMS• Instantly update your website as often as
you want
• Easy to use, no need to know any programming language
• Can have multiple administrators
• Reduce maintenance costs
• Allows you to keep content fresh and consistent!
Disadvantages of Using a CMS• Often a learning curve
• It takes time to edit your content
• You need to optimize your content for search engines
• Upfront costs are typically more expensive
You Are Responsible Now!• It is your responsibility to
take the time to edit the site
• Can be very rewarding and beneficial
• The flexibility of a CMS can put you ahead of the competition
I Think a CMS is Perfect for My Website! Now What?
Who Will be Administering the CMS?
• Develop scenarios
• Ask yourself honestly if you will have the time
• Will multiple people be editing content?
• Will you need to hire someone?
Think of Your Overall Goals• Take time to figure out your
web strategy before selecting a CMS
• Define your goals both for the site launch and for the future
• A CMS is just a tool for communicating, figure out what you want to say first
What Do You Need From Your CMS?
• Make a list of requirements
• Think of how you want to display content
• Keep a list of wants, but don't let them get in the way of the bigger picture
Choosing a CMS• Who will implement the CMS?
Make sure it has:
– Easy administration area
– Allows for the custom functionality you need
– Ability for a unique layout
– Has the support you need
Use Your CMS to Improve Your Website
• Keep your news and events up to date
• Integrate with traditional marketing and social media
• Add new photos and other media to keep people engaged and break up the content
• Update content with new products and services
Don't Let Your Content Go Stale!
Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/recyclethis/157108084/
• Schedule a time to update your site or task it out to others
• Update your website often with quality, relevant content
Remember all those great things you were going to do with you CMS? Do it!
Re-cap• A Web CMS allows you to easily
and instantly update your website content
• It is a big responsibility to maintain a website
• When choosing a CMS, think of your web strategy first
• Make a goal to keep using your CMS once you have it!
Questions?
• SEO Vision Blog - http://www.hallme.com/blog
• Webinars – http://www.hallme.com/webinars
– Next week – Jenika presents Creating a User-Centric Website
– In 2 weeks – Amanda presents What Your Business Needs to Know About Mobile Marketing
• Call us! 1-877-425-5932 (HALL-WEB)
Follow Hall: @Hall_WebFollow Alayna: @CMS_Girl
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