subject: How to Choose the Best Content Management System For Your Business [print this page] How to Choose the Best Content Management System For Your Business
A content management system, or CMS, is a computer-based process that allows businesses to create, review and publish information throughout their business. In this way, information can be generated and manipulated to fulfil a variety of needs including content for businesses and websites, and working procedures for staff on an intranet or extranet. An extranet allows companies to grant access to customers or contractors through password protected protocols in a Web-based environment.
A goodenterprise content management system will allow you to edit and create content without difficulty, and disseminate information quickly and easily to all staff.
When choosing a CMS to suit your individual needs, you should consider the following points:
Make sure the system is easy to use for all employees, including those who are not as tech savvy as you. In other words, choosing a system to suit the lowest common denominator will result in fewer problems and a system that is easier to implement. Similarly, your customers will also have to use the system, so you should always bear in mind your end user.
There are many free open-source systems available but it is important to remember that, as your business grows, your system needs to grow with it and many open-source systems may have difficulty in adapting to these changes. Choosing an expert solution is by far a better choice because you can build in the possibility of expansion right from the start.
Make sure the company you are dealing with has had experience in installing and implementing content management systems in the past. Make sure they are able to offer you the extensions and functionality you need.
Research your needs and, where possible, check with previous or existing customers of the company you are considering for the installation. This is the type of research that can really pay dividends in the long run.
Make sure that you do not only consider the IT needs of your company. It is vital to be aware of the needs of all prospective users so that you are not stuck with a technically advanced system that is difficult to use.
Security is a vital issue, not just for sensitive work areas but also to protect your system against viruses and Malware. Choosing a CMS management company with experience in this area can save you a lot of money and angst in the long run.
Adaptability is also a vital concern for large businesses with existing systems that need to be incorporated into a new CMS. It is a mistake to change your entire work practice simply to suit the technical needs of a CMS.
As a CMS grows it is vital that you are able to find content easily, and it is for this reason that search ability becomes a critical aspect. Ensure that the search functions are more than adequate so that retrieval information is easy for every user.
Make sure your service provider can offer you a well-organised project and has a track record of delivering on time. This way your newenterprise content management system can be seamlessly introduced into your company and you'll enjoy the benefit of professional support.
