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How to choose CMS for the site? Read a detailed guide.

Which CMS to choose: the guide of the choice engine for the site

Dmitry Dementy editors Texters

Updated Sergey Almakin

When you plan a web project, you have to answer thousands of questions. One of them concerns the choice of engine for the site. It's a shame if you spend a lot of time on the solution of this simple problem. From this leadership, you will learn how to correctly and quickly choose CMS for the site.

Why is it difficult to choose a engine for the site

The answer to this question may surprise you. The fact is that for the implementation of almost any web project, any CMS will suit you. For example, you can choose Joomla! And to open an online store, content project, blog, portal, web service, a business card site,-anything. You are unlikely to find a type of resource, which, in principle, cannot be done on Jumle. Moreover, you will not immediately answer that it is fundamentally impossible to implement using Drupal, WordPress, 1C-Bitrix or another “engine”.

Choosing CMS, you will probably encounter people who will say that Joomla! And Drupal is a complete nonsense, and your project can only be done on Netcat or 1C-Bitrix. By the way, the names of the engines in the previous sentence can be arbitrarily changed. So, do not believe such people. In most cases, their commitment to CMS is associated exclusively with personal preferences. The specialist is used to working with Jumla, knows her well, and he is afraid of other “engines” or simply does not want to understand.

Does this mean that you can not listen to anyone, take the first CMS and make a site on it? Of course not.

Firstly, if you trust the development of the site to a specific specialist, it is better to let him work with your favorite engine, if this does not create inconvenience for you and your audience.

Secondly, each CMS is specific. Even knowing how to work in WordPress, you can hardly immediately publish the material in Drupal. In addition, each CMS has its own technical restrictions. If in the third year of the development of the project you will replace the inability to realize the idea due to the incorrectly selected engine at the start, it will be insulting.

Which engine is not suitable for you

Never agree to the so -called “self -written” CMS. They can be used only in one case: if you write them yourself. You will not suit you without an engine in general. Read about the reasons in the manual for customers of sites.

Which CMS to choose: paid or free

The answer to this question is obvious: if possible, use a free engine. Agree to paid CMS only in the case when the functionality of free products does not correspond to the needs of your project.

Sellers of commercial engines will try to convince you to buy a product using different arguments:

• “Our studio has developed the most functional and safe CMS in history. For only 1000 rubles a year, you will receive regular updates and free technical support. ”The guys forgot to say that their studio can change specialization after 3 months. And when you show the most functional CMS to other specialists, they will tell you that your engine is outdated, and the site must be transferred to the CMS with which the new studio works.
• “Due to the open code of free CMS, any novice hacker will hack your site. CMS has a closed code, so they are safe. ” It is a myth. You can crack engines with open and closed code. Moreover, in practice, open code programs are more protected, as they are developed by the communities of specialists. Numerous enthusiasts find and eliminate the vulnerabilities of the program code faster than several experts working on closed code projects.
• “Sites on free CMS – for schoolchildren. And solid businessmen work with paid products. ” If you accept this argument, you will go to your grandmother on vacation.

• Search systems give more traffic to sites on paid CMS, and they are suspicious of free. It is a myth. Here it is more likely that in paid CMS there is additional functionality that can be used for competent search optimization. For example, on most paid CMS, a thin setting of the 404th is already available from the “box”, working with metathags, external services, and microdulatory. In paid solutions there is a built-in support for web analytics. In addition, you can configure humanoid links and fight doubles. All this in paid CMS is much easier to configure than in free designers.
• “Paid CMS is more functional. It is suitable for solving your problems, provides you and your customers with more opportunities. ” This is the only argument that you can take seriously.

The engines are combined into groups of suitable and inappropriate for the implementation of your project. At the same time, both groups include both paid and free CMS.

How to evaluate the functionality of the engine

As noted above, almost all CMS has sufficient functionality to create almost any site. All developers of engines call their product functional. Therefore, it is difficult for a non -specialist to objectively assess the correspondence of the functionality of the content management system for the needs of the project. To do this, compare the capabilities of CMS with the basic set of functions considered below.

Convenient visual editor

A simple content editor is what you refused the site on HTML in favor of the engine. Through the editor interface, you can instantly publish and edit content.

Most users need an editor that allows you to work with visual objects. This type of interface is called Wysiwyg. The acronym is formed from the first letters of the English sentence What You See is What You Get – what you see, you will get it.

Choose a “engine” with an editor that allows you to work with content in visual mode and in HTML mode.Some CMS are equipped with a functional editor by default. In others, the default solution is only suitable for publishing an emergency SOS signal. Here are some examples:

WordPress

WordPress is an ideal solution, the capabilities of which will be enough for the vast majority of users. It allows you to work with content in block-visual mode and in HTML mode.

If for some reason you are not satisfied with the default solution, select the editor that suits you in the plugin directory, for example, Advanced Editor Tools.

By the way, in the new versions of WordPress, the visual editor has changed significantly. Many people did not like these changes.

How to install WordPress on a computer

We use Xampp to install WordPress. Video

Drupal

The Drupal editor will surprise you with its minimalism. If you decide to work with this engine, you will have to find a module with a full editor. For example, you can install the familiar TinyMCE.

opencart

The engine for OpenCart stores has a functional and at the same time simple editor. It allows you to edit content in visual and HTML code modes, select page templates, and change post categories. The editor allows you to specify the title and meta data of the page.

Joomla

Read about the features of the default Joomla editor in our review. From it you will learn why you should replace the default editor with JCE.

When choosing a CMS, be sure to try to publish a note in a demo version. Evaluate the convenience and functionality of the editor.

1C-Bitrix: Site Management

A versatile but content heavy content management system. Not suitable for small sites (thematic blogs, for example). It is designed to solve business problems, so the CMS has an appropriate price tag. Main use cases: stores, corporate websites, marketplaces and even social networks. CMS is based on modules. There is a main and additional. For example, a store will need a sales module (it includes a shopping cart, CRM, checkout). There is no need for training here. Working by the method of scientific poke, as in WordPress, for example, will not work here.

There are analytical tools:

• built-in web analytics;
• questioning;
• mailing services;
• A / B testing.

1C-Bitrix: Site Management is a completely complete and well-thought-out solution. 2 negative points: the price is quite high (from 5,400 rubles). The second negative point: the software is closed, and it will be impossible to add the necessary functionality. In addition, you will need to train the staff involved in the administration of the site. And the documentation on the developer's website is far from complete.

SEO Friendly

We are talking about a set of functions and characteristics that allow you to adapt the resource to the needs of users of search engines. If you are used to looking at this problem from the other side, look for an engine that meets the technical requirements of search engines.

Please note: all CMS can be called default or potentially SEO friendly.It would be strange if the developers of the engines did not take into account the requirements of search engines.

When choosing a content management system, you must evaluate the implementation of the characteristics of the Seo-Friedly. In other words, you need to understand whether you have enough default SEO fighting to successfully promote the site. You also need to evaluate the efforts necessary to expand the characteristics of the Seo-Friendly to the level that you consider acceptable.

You can evaluate the adaptation of CMS to the needs of search engines according to the following criteria:

• Canonical url. With their help, you protect the resource from duplicated pages, which are negatively related by search engines. The latest version of Joomla! Supports canonical URL by default. In WordPress, URL canonization is provided using SEO plane, for example, Allinone Seo Pack. If you select 1C-Bitrix, the REL = “Canonical” tag will have to be added manually between tags, and in the Drupal 8 engine it is turned on by default.
• Page name and meta-dane management. The engine should have an interface for editing Title, DESCRIPTION and KEYWORDS meta-tags. In Jumla, you can insert descriptions manually or generate them automatically by expanding SeoSimple. In WordPress, Title, Description and Keywords editing many templates. You can also install the All in One Seo Pack plugin. To edit Title, Description and Keywords in Drupal, you will need a SEO module, for example, a ligament of Meta Tags Quick and Metatag. CMS Opencart allows you to edit Title and meta-data by default.

• Blocking indexing of pages of categories and archives. This option prevents content duplication. In “Jumla” and WordPress, the function is implemented using SEO plane: SeoSimple and All In One Seo Pack, respectively. In OpenCart, the problem of doubles of categories can be solved by expanding SEO Pack (paid). In Drupal you can use the Node Noindex module.
• Integration with analytics services. You can use Yandex.Metrica, Google Analytics, or other analytical systems with sites on any engine or without engine. In the context of the SEO fighting, evaluate the simplicity of connecting the resource to analytical services and the ability to track key parameters in the administrative panel. In Joomla! You can connect Google Analytics and Yandex.Metrica using the extensions of Advanced Google Analytics and Yandex Metrika. For WordPress there are Google Analytics by Yoast and Yandex.Metrica plugins. The Google Analytics by Yoast plugin allows you to monitor key metrics in the administrative panel of the site. In Drupal, you can also use the Yandex.Metrics modules and Google Analytics. For OpenCart you can use paid and free modules. Please note that CMS Opencart has a built -in analytics system, with which you can track sales, products, consumers and marketing efficiency.

• The ability to control the XML site card and the Robots.txt file. In the context of SEO fighting, we are talking about the simplicity of creating a site card and editing the Robots.txt file. In WordPress, Joomla!, Opencart, Drupal these problems are solved using plugins, extensions and modules.
• The possibility of optimizing images. When choosing an engine, evaluate how easy it is to change the image size, add the name, description, signature and attribute Alt.In WordPress, these opportunities are implemented by default. For Jumla, you can use the extensions, for example, OS Responsive Image Gallery. For Opencart there is a SEO Image File Names module. In CMS Drupal, you can enable image optimization without installing additional modules.
• Code validity. There is no convincing data on the negative impact of code inconsistency with W3C standards on the resource position in the issuance or traffic. Moreover, some errors can only be found using special tools, since they do not affect the display of the site in browsers and user experience. However, if there are many errors in the engine or topic, they need to pay attention to them. To check the code using the validator, you will have to install demonstration versions of the selected CMS and template. Evaluate the errors found and discuss with the developer the need and the possibility of eliminating them.

Pay attention to the simplicity of creating and editing the menu, the ability to configure static URLs, the simplicity of adaptation to mobile traffic.

There are no SEO-indestructible engines. When choosing, you should evaluate how easy it is for you to use the functions of a particular CMS necessary for search promotion.

The possibility of customization

The site engine is designed for publication and controlling. Immediately after installing any CMS, you can publish a note or create a page containing one or another content.

Castimization in the context of choosing CMS is an adaptation of the engine to publish content in accordance with the features of the project and the needs of its audience. For example, if you create a blog, CMS should display the latest publications on the main page. If you develop an online store, you should have the opportunity to publish goods cards.

You can customize any engine. When choosing, pay attention to the following characteristics of simplicity of CMS adaptation to the needs of your project.

• The possibilities of customization due to default functionality. Standard tools practically do not imply customization of WordPress, Opencart and Magento. Drupal and Joomla! have wider opportunities. For example, WordPress default functionality does not allow you to go further than a blog or visits site with basic capabilities. With “Jumla” and Drupal without additional extensions and modules you will make a blog, business card site and even a corporate site or resource for a content project.
• The possibilities of customization with the help of ready -made plugins, modules, extensions. WordPress remains the champion here.
  Firstly, there are dozens of plugins to solve popular problems. Moreover, it is difficult to come up with a function or an opportunity for which enthusiasts did not write at least 1 module.
  Secondly, most plugins for WordPress are distributed free of charge or by Freemium. Many ready -made extensions exist for CMS Opencart. Please note that commercial solutions dominate here. Most free extensions are monofunctional programs.The functionality of “Jumla” and “Drupal” can also be adapted to the features of the project using extensions and modules. There are not as many ready -made solutions for these engines as for WordPress.
• The possibility of customization using topics and templates. WordPress remains the champion here. For this CMS, you can find many ready-made topics adapted for projects of different types: blogs, content resources, online stores. Similar solutions exist for 1C-Bitrix, Joomla! and Drupal. However, it is more difficult for these engines to find a high-quality free template due to a limited offer.
• Integration with third -party services. Almost all CMS can be quickly integrated with social networks and analytics services. Pay attention to the possibility of integrating the selected engine with CRM systems. For example, Opencart has the built -in functionality of the basic CRM, which allows you to track transactions and customer preferences. Integration with CRM is implemented in the 1C-Bitrix engine. To correctly integrate WordPress with CRM SalesForce, you will have to edit the template code.

Please note that it will be difficult for you to customize the studio CMS yourself or with the help of third -party specialists. This task will have to be delegated to the developer.

User access level management

This function is useful for different types of project: from the online store to the content site and blog. For example, you can give advanced rights with access to closed sections of the site for paid subscribers or moderators of content projects. Owners of online stores can provide special opportunities for regular customers or participants in loyalty programs.

Below are examples of implementing access level control in some CMS:

• In WordPress you can allow or ban registration of new users, as well as set the level of access to the registered participant. After registration, administrators can change the roles of users manually.

• In CMS Joomla, you can include users in groups with different rights: from guest to the administrator.

• CMS Drupal is distinguished by flexible settings for the rights of an anonymous and registered user, as well as an administrator.

• Opencart allows users to sort users by groups and statuses “Active” or “Former”. Also, the engine allows you to appoint a registered user as an administrator.

Pay attention to the possibility of managing Drupal user rights. If you create a complex service, social project or online store, this engine will allow you to set arbitrary groups of visitors.

How to choose a engine for an online store

You can make an online store on almost any CMS. An ideal content management system for online trade should have the following characteristics.

• Simplicity of launch and control. According to this criterion, WordPress, Prestashop and Opencart remain the best engines. If you create a store on WordPress, get ready to spend a lot of time to adapt the engine to your needs. With Opencart and Prestashop you can start work within 30 minutes.
• Functionality. If this criterion is important to you, pay attention to Opencart, Magento, CS-Cart and 1C-Bitrix. Projects on Magento and 1C-Bitrix are easily scaled.
• Castomization. Sites on 1C-Bitrix, Drupal and Joomla! It is easier to adapt to solve individual problems.

Evaluate the starting and potential scale of your project. If the number of commodity positions in your store will be calculated by dozens or hundreds, try specialized engines or online stores in the cloud, for example, Magento. If you constantly increase the number of commodity positions, pay attention to 1C-Bitrix, Drupal, Amiro.

What to look for when choosing CMS for a corporate site

When choosing a engine for a corporate site, evaluate 2 CMS characteristics: ease of use and the functions necessary for your project. Most likely, on the site you need static pages and a section of publications.

If you do not have personal preferences, choose WordPress. Do not listen to snobs saying that the future participant Fortune 500 is not a resource on the blog engine. WordPress has long turned into a universal CMS, on which you can make any resource, including a corporate site.

Which CMS is suitable for a large content project

You will probably be surprised, but the CMS that you like best is suitable for the content project. Naturally, it is unlikely that it would occur to you to make a blog or media website on engines sharpened under the Internet trade. And if you choose any universal CMS, the project will work.

The success of the content project depends on the relevance and quality of content, and not on the editor in which it is created either by the engine with which they control it. If you understand this, take any free “engine” and make a new “feed.ru”.

Which CMS is suitable for the forum

If you want to create a forum, you need a specialized CMS. For example, Vbulletin and PHPBB. The last engine can be called the optimal choice, as it combines free use with the functionality of paid CMS, for example, Vbulletin.

Please note that you can install the forum engine on the subdomain of the main site or use plugins and modules to expand the functionality of the universal engine. You will be interested in such modules for popular CMS:

– Forum for WordPress; – Forum for Joomla; – Forum for Drupal.

You can independently find ready -made solutions for other popular CMS.

Which engine to choose

If you have the necessary knowledge and skills, you will make a project well on almost any engine. Therefore, when choosing CMS, be guided by personal preferences and experience with certain systems. For example, if you and your employees know Drupal well, feel free to use this engine. If you know WordPress like your 5 fingers, make corporate sites and online stores on it.

If you do not have personal preferences and experience with CMS, focus on the proposed table.

Often a more effective approach is to simply concentrate on the tasks of your business, and the creation of the site to entrust the professionals of the TEXTERRA agency.

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