In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial for any business or individual. Creating a website is one of the primary ways to establish an online presence.
However, designing and developing a website can be a daunting task, especially for those who do not have a technical background. Content Management Systems (CMS) provide an easier and efficient way to create websites.
In this blog, we will discuss the advantages of using CMS to make a website and why inclusivity in website creation is important.
What is CMS
A Content Management System (CMS) is a software application that allows users to create, manage and publish digital content, such as web pages and blog posts, without the need for technical expertise. CMS platforms provide a user-friendly interface that enables website creators to add and edit content easily, without writing any code. CMS platforms are widely used to create websites and blogs of all types, from personal blogs to large e-commerce sites.
Advantages of using CMS for Website Creation
Using a CMS platform to create a website offers many benefits, including accessibility, ease of use, flexibility, security, and cost-effectiveness. CMS platforms provide a user-friendly interface that makes website creation accessible to non-technical individuals. They also offer a range of customizable templates and themes that enable users to create unique and professional-looking websites quickly and easily.
Accessibility of CMS
Accessibility is a critical aspect of website creation. Websites that are not accessible can alienate people with disabilities, making it difficult or impossible for them to access the content. CMS platforms provide various accessibility features that enable designers and developers to create accessible websites. Some of the accessibility features available in CMS platforms include:
Alternative text for images: Alternative text (alt text) describes the content of an image for people who use screen readers or have a visual impairment.
Keyboard navigation: CMS platforms provide keyboard navigation features that enable users to navigate a website using only the keyboard, making it easier for people with motor disabilities to access the content.
Built-in accessibility standards: Some CMS platforms are designed to meet accessibility standards such as Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Ease of use of CMS
One of the key advantages of CMS platforms is their user-friendly interfaces, which make website creation accessible to individuals with limited technical skills. Most CMS platforms provide a drag-and-drop interface that allows users to create and edit website content without any coding knowledge. This means that users can easily create and publish content, without the need for extensive training or technical expertise.
Here are some examples of CMS platforms with easy-to-use interfaces that are ideal for non-technical users:
WordPress:
WordPress is one of the most popular CMS platforms globally, known for its user-friendly interface and ease of use. With a vast range of customizable themes and plugins, WordPress enables users to create unique and professional-looking websites quickly and easily.
Wix:
Wix is a popular website builder that provides a drag-and-drop interface, making website creation accessible to non-technical users. With a range of customizable templates, Wix offers a seamless website creation experience.
Squarespace:
Squarespace is a platform that provides a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality, enabling users to create professional-looking websites quickly. With its wide range of customizable templates and built-in features, Squarespace is a popular choice among individuals and businesses.
Besides these platforms, there are many other CMS platforms available that offer user-friendly interfaces and are suitable for non-technical users. Therefore, website creators can choose a CMS platform that fits their skill level and requirements, without compromising on quality or functionality.
Flexibility of CMS
CMS platforms provide flexibility in website creation, enabling designers and developers to customize websites to suit their needs. CMS platforms provide a range of customizable themes and templates that can be customised to fit individual needs. Users can also add new features and functionality to their websites using plugins and extensions.
Some examples of how CMS platforms offer flexibility in website creation include:
WordPress:
WordPress provides a range of customizable themes and templates, and users can also add new features and functionality to their websites using plugins and extensions.
Drupal:
Drupal is an open-source CMS platform that provides a high level of flexibility, enabling users to create customised websites to suit their needs.
Joomla:
Joomla provides a range of customizable templates and extensions that enable users to create unique websites that fit their individual needs.
Security of CMS
Website security is crucial for protecting user data and preventing unauthorised access to website content. CMS platforms provide robust security features that help to keep websites secure. Some of the security features available in CMS platforms include:
- Regular updates: CMS platforms provide regular updates that fix security vulnerabilities and improve website security.
- Secure login: CMS platforms provide secure login features that protect against unauthorised access to the website.
- Security plugins: CMS platforms provide security plugins that help to protect against malware and other security threats.
Some examples of CMS platforms with strong security features include:
- WordPress: WordPress provides regular updates, secure login features, and a range of security plugins that help to keep websites secure.
- Drupal: Drupal provides regular updates and a range of security modules that help to protect websites against security threats.
- Joomla: Joomla provides regular updates and a range of security extensions that help to keep websites secure.
Cost-effective CMS
Creating a website from scratch can be a daunting task and often an expensive affair, especially for small businesses or individuals with a limited budget. CMS platforms come as a relief for those who are looking for a cost-effective way to create a website.
One of the main advantages of CMS platforms is that they are mostly open-source, meaning they are free to use and can be customised to fit individual needs. This way, website creators can save a considerable amount of money and allocate it to other crucial aspects of their business.
Here are some examples of cost-effective CMS platforms that provide a wide range of features and functionalities:
- WordPress: WordPress is an open-source platform that is free to use and provides a range of customizable themes and plugins. WordPress is one of the most popular CMS platforms globally, and it powers over 40% of websites on the internet.
- Joomla: Joomla is an open-source platform that is free to use and provides a range of customizable templates and extensions. Joomla is known for its flexibility and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for small businesses and individuals who are new to website creation.
- Drupal: Drupal is an open-source platform that is free to use and provides a high level of flexibility and customization. Drupal is known for its scalability and security, making it an ideal choice for large organisations and businesses that require a complex website.
In addition to these platforms, there are many other CMS platforms available that cater to specific needs and budgets. Therefore, website creators can choose a CMS platform that fits their budget and requirements without compromising on quality or functionality.
CMS V/S Coding the Website from Scratch
Creating a website from scratch involves writing code in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create web pages, add content, and design the website’s layout. This requires a high level of technical expertise and can be time-consuming and expensive, especially for small businesses or individuals with limited budgets.
CMS platforms offer an alternative to coding a website from scratch. With CMS, users can create and manage digital content without writing any code, making website creation accessible to non-technical users.
CMS platforms provide a range of customizable templates and themes that enable users to create unique and professional-looking websites quickly and easily. Additionally, CMS platforms offer many security features that protect websites from cyber-attacks, making them a secure choice for website
Conclusion
In conclusion, CMS platforms provide an efficient and cost-effective way to create websites. CMS platforms provide accessibility, ease of use, flexibility, security, and cost-effectiveness, making them an excellent choice for individuals and businesses looking to establish an online presence.
Inclusivity is essential in website creation, and CMS platforms provide various accessibility features that enable designers and developers to create websites that are accessible to all users. We hope this blog has helped you understand the advantages of using CMS to make a website and the importance of inclusivity in website creation.
