Content Management Systems (CMS) are an efficient way of storing and managing information between groups of people. They enable people with minimal technical knowledge to upload, share or publish a range of content, e.g. text, graphics etc for distribution to others.
This is done within the constraints of a set of rules, processes and workflows which ensure that all the content is presented in a coherent structure.
When we say ‘content’ we mean text, video, audio, graphics, Word documents, blogs etc. Anything in electronic format can be managed by a CMS.
This site is a comprehensive guide to the world of CMS: the different types of CMS; their advantages and disadvantages; how they work with different operating systems; the role of usability and accessibility and other types of CMS, e.g. groupware.
We also look at the various types of open source (free) CMS systems and commercial systems. Both of these have their advantages and disadvantages.
A CMS is used by a variety of people and is response to that we have included sections which are aimed at specific groups. These include sections for designers, developers and content editors.
Much of the information presented here is for people who already use a CMS or have a familiarity with the functionality of this type of system.
If you are then we have included a section which is specifically aimed at newcomers. It includes information on what a CMS is, how it works and choosing a CMS.
This site is for both the hardcore techie and the novice content editor.