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What is CMS Software?

Published on 2/27/2011 by

CMS is short for content management system.  CMS software is the framework or backend that allows for non-technical computer users to quickly generate, store and publish content online.  The popular open source blogging platform WordPress is a type of CMS software.

Because CMS software is integrated into many web hosting companies’ control panels that web hosting clients use to manage their websites, anyone can install and build a full featured blog, forum, e-commerce store, help desk or website in minutes.

What CMS software can do for you

CMS software was created with the average computer user in mind.  You don’t need to know any code or have any design skills to be able to set up your own website using CMS software.  Some of the benefits of CMS software include:

  • Allows a large number of people to contribute, share and create data.
  • Ability to store and organize information.
  • Easy interface with which to write, edit and publish data.
  • Built in data security.
  • Plugins which extend the features of basic CMS software.

The advantages of CMS software

CMS software provides many advantages to end users.

Ease of installation:  CMS software is now integrated into many of today’s web hosting control panels, which means that you can install a forum or blog in less than 60 seconds. No experience necessary!

Low cost:  CMS software like WordPress, Drupal and Joomla is open source and free of charge for end users.  Paid CMS solutions also tend to be less expensive than other alternatives because they’re easier to maintain.

Easy to customize:  Even with no design skills, beginner computer users can customize the look and feel of their website with freely downloadable website templates, skins and themes.

Easy to use:  CMS software was designed with non-technical people in mind.  All functions of CMS software are handled through a graphical interface that takes little time to learn.

Unlimited features:  The basic features of CMS software can be extended with the installation of plugins, which turn simple blogging platforms into server side powerhouses that can perform any number of tasks from full website backups to responding to e-commerce customers automatically.

Accessible anywhere:  CMS software is web based, so no matter where you are or what computer you’re using, you’ll have access to your data online.  This also makes it possible to work on joint projects with multiple participants.

CMS software makes it possible for anyone of any technical background to build their very own website and publish it online. All you need to begin using CMS software today is a domain name and a web hosting account.