A content management system makes it easy for non-technical people to manage a website’s design and content.
In the old days, communications managers needed to learn HTML in order to update a website. It’s still a great language to learn, if website updates is a part of your job. However, for the small staff communications planner, CMS will help you update your website quickly, from anywhere, or by anyone.
Here’s what you should look out for:
WYSIWYG interface: This is the key element to any CMS program. Just like email software, some CMS mimic a word processing program, where you can simply cut and paste content, or easily add text elements such as tables, font changes, etc.
Multiple stakeholders: CMS should allow for multiple content administrators, or for others to approve content before it is published. It should show who approved content, and when. In addition, it should also allow you to schedule content so you can create content ahead of time.
Ability to see HTML code: Being able to alter the HTML code will help to customize your code and make your website look a little more unique.
Allows for growth: As your website grows, CMS software should allow you to easily add more pages.
Multimedia: It should be easy to add photos, videos, blog posts, documents
Support: It takes time to learn software and sometimes there can be glitches in the software. Having easily accessible support is essential. Documentation should also be provided either online or via manual.
Training: Before buying the software, you should be able to view a demo, and be trained on its use before implementation.
Events/calendar: For associations, it’s essential to know what events exist within the association and within the industry. Members should also be able to send in events themselves, which will be approved by an administrator before being placed on the website.
Form builder: Your CMS should also allow for forms that you can easily create for member input.
Want to learn more about CMS tools? Check CMS Critic – the site features detailed reviews of content management software for association use.