When the worldwide web first began, web pages were all created the same way: hand-coded by a developer using special editing software, in a language called HTML. Sometimes JavaScript was added for more advanced functionality. It all worked fine. In fact, that method remains appropriate for many small to medium sized sites. Using the tools that have served us well for over a decade is still the quickest and most economical way to develop many websites.

But an issue arises when frequent changes are desired. Adding new text or photos to a static HTML website requires a skilled developer’s time – and of course, the associated hourly fees. Unfortunately, modifying HTML directly can be tricky. Sometimes even a tiny mistake can leave a carefully-constructed layout an unrecognizable mess! A sample of the HTML needed to display part of a very simple web page is shown below.

Content Management Systems

Websites developed using a CMS – of which there are many – can be updated by the owner using a simple online interface. If you’re familiar with basic word processing software, you’ll be able to easily and text or photos to your site whenever you wish. Compare the CMS user interface below with the HTML code above.

This simplified interface also prevents an owner from inadvertently altering the overall look of the site. The CMS authoring tools only allow access to pre-defined content areas of specified pages. The updated page will always display correctly, consistent with the original design.

Larger companies can take advantage of many other benefits of CMS. Features such as revision tracking and control, workflow management, multi-level access privileges, article archiving and a centralized searchable repository for all web content are built-in to the system.

The initial cost of designing a CMS website is a bit higher, but reduced maintenance and updating fees often result in significant savings over time. Please contact Garnet Design Group to discuss the pros and cons of using a CMS for your website.