In simple terms, the original choice for building a website would have been the default option of HTML, a Non-CMS website, in other words. Now, you also have the choice of using a Content Management System (CMS), so which one would be right for your needs?
If you put your website creation and design options in the hands of one of the best web development companies around they will be able to guide you through the decision-making process as to whether you should go for a CMS or Non-CMS option.
In the meantime, here is an overview of the difference between the two options so that you have a better understanding of what you are choosing.
What is a Content Management System (CMS)?
In general terms, CMS is the new kid on the block compared to HTML, and it can give you a lot more design flexibility and freedom.
A CMS describes a web application that is designed to make content authoring and the delivery of that content as easy as possible.
The beauty of CMS is that it reduces the need for technical know-how. Even if you are a web development novice CMS gives you the platform and the tools to build a website and utilize web publishing procedures with a level of ease that is not always possible when using HTML.
There are a number of different types of CMSs. These vary from Web CMS to Mobile and Component CMS.
It is fair to say that even though you should be able to grasp the concept and use the basic tools at your disposal with limited programming knowledge, there is quite a difference between being able to use CMS and making it look as professional and presentable as you want it to be.
Simplifying the technical aspects of web design and content management is one of the key selling points attached to choosing this option. However, it may still require the services of a professional web development company to get the site to do all the things you want in the most efficient way possible.
What are the advantages of CMS?
If you want an example of what a CMS is all about, you only have to look at WordPress, which dominates the market when it comes to providing the design tools you can use for basic web creation.
CMSs offer an advantage over HTML in terms of giving you access to readymade templates and allowing you to access and update websites from anywhere. It is also useful to enjoy easy availability of plugins and widgets that comes with the CMS option, so you can freshen up your content with relative ease.
Which one is better?
Deciding between CMS and Non-CMS depends on a number of different factors.
With a bit of basic CMS training, you could learn how to make changes to your own website once it has been built. This could be useful when you want to edit pages and add new content.
It will cost more to create a CMS site rather than to opt for the HTML option. However, the ongoing design flexibility might outweigh that extra upfront cost. If you are planning on creating a website with more than fifteen pages, it might prove more cost-effective to go with the CMS option anyway.
Talk through your options with a web design professional and they will be able to guide you toward the best website design solution for your needs.