What is a CMS?
A Content Management System, or CMS, is online software that allows you to create and manage content on your website from a user-friendly platform with absolutely no specialist programming knowledge.
In a nutshell, a CMS makes managing a website super easy for individuals of all technical levels – from IT gurus to total technophobes.
Benefits of a CMS
The most significant benefit of using a CMS is how easy it is to manage the content on your website, whether you’re creating new pages, adding news stories or updating existing text.
Generally, a CMS will allow you to add multiple users, each with a different level of access.
This can be particularly helpful if you want a final sign-off on any changes before they go live on your website. A team member can make the changes before handing them to an administrator to review and publish.
A good CMS will also include a media library where you can upload photos and videos that will automatically be embedded into your content without too much editing.
Do I need a CMS?
Depending on the nature of your business, you may or may not decide you need a CMS. It depends on how often you’ll require changes to your website and whether you have the time or inclination to make the changes yourself.
If your website includes features requiring regular updates, such as a news or blog page, you’ll want access to a CMS.
Otherwise, you’ll receive an invoice from your Web Developer every time you want to add new content or make a change. However, if you have a super simple website with just a little blurb about your organisation and your contact details, then there is probably little point in investing in a CMS.
Which CMS should I use?
There are hundreds of content management systems out there, with the biggest names being WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla, but we always prefer to use WordPress! For each website we create, we tend to either use their current CMS or move them over to WordPress for better customisation and functionality. Best systems of 2025.
Headless CMS vs Traditional CMS
If, for example, you opt for WordPress, you’ll need to begin considering WordPress SEO.
We advise staying away from custom-built systems as they can be limiting in terms of design and functionality. You’ll want to consider a future-proof CMS to update your site when needed easily, instead of going back to designers or developers to make changes as you evolve.
If you need help setting up a CMS or website, contact Vanilla Circus or call 01483 921741. We have two decades of experience in building and marketing websites.