A Content Management System (CMS) is a computer program that will allow a user with no web development or coding skills to make changes to the content on their website pages.

There are hundreds of off-the-shelf open source systems such as Wordpress, Drupal and Joomla, to name but a few of the more popular CMS, which can be used to make changes to the pages of a website. Alternatively, website developers may decide to build their own bespoke system.

Advantages of a bespoke CMS
Building a bespoke system gives a web developer flexibility and control over their website build and future development for their customers. Because they have written and understand their own code, they are able to include additional functionality far more quickly than trying to add a feature that is not included in the off-the-shelf version. For example, if a client wants to add a testimonials page to their website with some of the testimonials appearing and rotating on the home page. With an off-the-shelf CMS, the web developer will not always know how the code works and it will be a lot harder to add something that is not already included in the original system.

The other problem with open source software, which is often free, is that it is continually under development. This can result in it being prone to bugs and security issues that need constant attention. A site running Joomla, for example, needs to be updated regularly. The website manager must ensure that it is patched up to the latest version at all times, including any third party plug-in's or modules they may have installed. Failure to do so could compromise their site. Joomla is a very popular web application and it is probably one of the most hacked PHP applications on the web. See http://www.us-cert.gov/ncas/alerts/TA13-024A

A well designed CMS that is easy to use and hosted on a secure server is recommended for all serious business websites.

Crystal Thought CMS
We decided from day one to build our own CMS and we are regularly monitoring and improving the usability and security of the system.

Our bespoke CMS has been developed and improved over a number of years in collaboration with our clients and provides a system that will allow easy up-dating and changing of web page content and layout.

To find out more about our CMS visit Crystalthoughtcontent-management-system

Mark Langston