A content management system (CMS) is a software solution that enables you to create, manage, and publish content – without coding knowledge. There are content management tools for all types of websites, including eCommerce, blogging sites, portfolios, social media platforms, and you name it. So, anyone on the team can organize and publish content without writing even a single line of code.
We’ve created this guide for anyone who is unfamiliar with CMS and the types of CMS along with content management system examples that are most popular.
So, let’s start exploring.
Table of Contents
What is a Content Management System (CMS)
CMS platforms are content management tools that feature an intuitive, easy-to-use interface for creating, managing, and publishing content on a website without or with limited computer programming knowledge. It serves as a database for text, videos, images, and other elements on your website. With real-time editing and preview capabilities, you can add or modify content and quickly see how your content will appear once it goes live. Put simply, content management tools give you complete control over your website’s content.
Modern CMS platforms have user-friendly features and advanced tools like pre-designed templates, drag-and-drop page builders, multiple language support, built-in SEO tools, and many more capabilities to make your website look and work impressively.
Moreover, there are plugins for any functionality you may want to add to your website; For example, a shopping cart plugin for eCommerce websites and SEO plugins for on-page SEO.
Types of CMS Platforms
CMS platforms can be categorized in two ways:
- Based on their use cases
- Based on how they are embedded into their systems
Now, let’s look at each one by one:
Types of CMS based on their use cases
| Enterprise Content Management System (ECM) | A big digital repository for sizeable enterprises for organizing and governing their documents, records, communications, and more. |
| Web Content Management System (WCMS) | Simplifies website management and content creation, editing, and publishing – with minimal technical skills. |
| Digital Asset Management System (DAM) | Stores, organizes, retrieves, and protects digital assets like images, videos, or documents. |
| Component Content Management System (CCMS) | Construct and reuse prefabricated and modularized content artifacts. |
Types of CMS based on how they are embedded
| Open Source CMS | Access and modify their source codes freely. Examples: WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal |
| Proprietary CMS | Closed-source system owned by a company. Need a license or subscription to use. Examples: Sitecore and HubSpot. |
| SaaS (Software as a Service) CMS | Ready-to-use cloud-based CMS. Accessible through the Internet. Examples: Wix, Squarespace, Shopify. |
| Custom CMS | Tailored to unique business needs. Built either from scratch or based on an existing CMS. |
Generally, CMS platforms are categorized based on how they are embedded into the system. Also, open-source CMS and SaaS CMS are more popular. So, in this guide, we’ll focus on them.
5 Examples of Content Management Systems [Our Best Picks]
There are hundreds of CMS platforms available in the world. Here, we are talking about the top 5 examples of content management system that are relevant for small businesses and marketers:
1. WordPress
WordPress is the best content management system, powering more than 43% of websites on the internet. It’s a go to choice for everyone, including businesses, bloggers, and marketers, alike.
The CMS regularly receives improvements and updates for functionality and security. Moreover, WordPress boasts a massive community, making it easier to find resources, tutorials, and help.
Benefits:
- Open-source and free to install
- Fully customizable with thousands of plugins and themes
- Easy to use for both beginners and experienced users
2. Shopify
If you’re planning to open an eCommerce store, Shopify might be your first choice. This popular cloud-based CMS is specifically developed for eCommerce, giving you access to countless features around product catalogs, payment processing, shopping carts, and many more.
You can easily add products, create product pages, manage inventory, publish blogs, and much more – all in one user-friendly interface and without coding skills. Choose a suitable template and get started.
Benefits:
- Suitable for eCommerce businesses at any stage of growth
- 24/7 customer support
- Extensive customization options
- Supports various sales channels, including online stores, social media, and even physical stores through POS (point of sale)
3. Wix
Wix is a fully hosted drag-and-drop website builder. So, the SaaS CMS lets you build your website simply by dragging elements like text boxes, images, forms, etc., onto pages. Plus, you’ve got 2000+ impressive templates for different categories like business, blogs, eCommerce, and creative. On top of that, Wix also includes built-in SEO tools and marketing features, making things easier for you.
The Wix Editor has an AI Theme Assistant that can answer your design-related questions. It also recommends features, fonts, elements, and colors for your website based on your brand logo and theme.
Benefits:
- Drag-and-drop website builder
- Highly customizable
- Easiest e-commerce tools
- 800+ apps to improve your site’s functionality
- Ease of maintenance
4. Squarespace
Squarespace is an all-in-one design-focused CMS and website builder loved for its modern and minimalist templates. The subscription-based CMS has over 180+ options for templates grouped into 19 style categories and 9 functional types.
The content management system cms framework gives you two page editing experiences: a classic grid-style editor or Squarespace’s more flexible Fluid Engine – both with pre-configured layouts and functionality modules. What’s more, you can even design your own template with Squarespace Blueprint AI.
Benefits:
- Intuitive drag-and-drop website builder
- A range of built-in SEO tools
- Advanced e-commerce features
- Mobile responsiveness
- Robust blogging capabilities
5. Joomla
Joomla is another popular open-source CMS meant for all kinds of websites. It’s loved for a robust user permission system and multilingual support, which is useful if your site needs those features. So, the content management system project is best for those who prioritize control, customization, and long-term flexibility.
Benefits:
- Open-source and free to download
- Rich features and flexibility for custom, complex websites
- Strong SEO options
Ready to empower your online business with the right CMS?
Whether you’re planning a beautifully designed website or robust functionality or both, EngiNerds is here to help. We can help you plan and execute your content management system project from start to finish.
So, contact EngiNerds today to create and strengthen your online presence!
FAQs
What does CMS stand for in tech?
The CMS stands for Content Management System, which is a software application to create and manage content on websites.
Is WordPress a CMS?
Yes, WordPress is perhaps the most popular open-source CMS used for creating and managing websites and blogs.
Do I need technical skills to use a CMS?
Generally, you don’t need technical skills or coding knowledge to use a CMS for content management.
How much does a CMS cost?
Open-source CMS tools like WordPress and Joomla are free to use. Hosted platforms like Wix, Shopify, and Squarespace charge a monthly or annual fee and offer plans that include hosting, support, and templates.
What is the main function of CMS?
The main function of content management tools is to help create, manage, and publish content on your website easily and without coding knowledge.
Conclusion
Choosing the right CMS is the single biggest step toward a website that’s easy to update, ranks well, and grows with your business. Whether you need WordPress’s flexibility, Shopify’s e-commerce power, or Wix’s drag-and-drop simplicity, the key is matching platform strengths to your goals. Take time to outline your content strategy, required features, and future plans – then pick the CMS that fits like a glove.
Need a hand?
EngiNerds Digital Agency has planned, built, and optimized CMS-driven websites for businesses just like yours. From custom themes and plugin integrations to full-scale migrations, we handle it all, so you can focus on growing your brand.
Let’s Talk
- Email: hello@enginerdsdigital.com
- Phone: +1 (354) 999-9997
Ready to power up your online presence? Contact EngiNerds today and get a free consultation!