November 7, 2024
Looking for the best content management system in 2024 can be tricky, with so many options to choose from, at different price points and different features, it’s difficult to know which one is most ideal for you. In this guide, we will be going over the best content management systems to use for your website.
A content management system is software to manage the content of your site. It provides a friendly interface where you can write articles, upload images, organize pages, and maintain websites through a UI instead of through code.
In addition, it can allow you to add unique functionality through the use of plugins or different designs through the use of themes. Popular CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla offer great features such as user management, workflow controls, version history for articles, and search functionality, as well as being able to extend this functionality through themes and plugins.
Picking a CMS is a hard choice for a lot of people, which CMS has the features I need? Which CMS is the most secure? How much will this CMS cost me?
These are all common questions to ask ourselves when deciding what CMS to pick. Below is a list of criteria to always ask yourself when determining what CMS to choose.
Do you need a simple brochure website with five pages, a contact form, and that’s it? Or do you require a more complex solution, such as a ticketing or support platform, to help your customers?
Deciding on the key features you need for your website is crucial for deciding which CMS you will use.
Could your team jump right in and figure out a new CMS, or do they need something that’s well-documented and easy to navigate and use without much technical know-how?
Knowing your team’s technical levels will help when deciding on a CMS and allow it to stick in the organization too, as people will be keen to adopt it.
Some CMSs are open-source and free to use, the only costs you’ll incur with these are typically hosting and domain costs, whereas other CMSs will cost thousands per month, and more if you tack on dedicated account managers, premium support packages, and security packages, some also charge per-user.
Ultimately it’s about finding your ideal price-point you’re willing to pay.
When it comes to creating simple websites or blogs, certain CMS platforms stand out for their ease of use, robust features, and strong community support. Here are the top choices for 2024:
Price: Free (hosting costs apply)
Best for: Bloggers, small businesses, and content creators
WordPress powers over 43% of all websites on the internet, and for good reason. It offers an intuitive interface, thousands of themes and plugins, and extensive customization options without requiring technical expertise.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
Price: Self-hosted free version, or from $9/month hosted
Best for: Professional publishers and newsletter creators
Ghost is a modern, minimalist platform focused purely on blogging and publishing. It’s particularly popular among journalists and professional writers who want a clean, distraction-free writing experience.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
Price: Free plan available, premium plans from $17/month
Best for: Beginners and small business owners
Wix is a website builder with CMS capabilities that’s perfect for those who want to create a simple website without any technical knowledge. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it incredibly accessible.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
Price: Free to publish, Partner Program for monetization
Best for: Individual writers and those focused purely on content
While not a traditional CMS, Medium deserves mention as a popular blogging platform. It’s perfect for writers who want to focus solely on content without worrying about technical aspects or hosting.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
For most users looking to create a simple website or blog, WordPress.org remains the best overall choice due to its:
However, if you’re looking for something simpler with less maintenance:
For small businesses and entrepreneurs looking to start selling online, choosing the right eCommerce CMS can make all the difference. Here are the top platforms that combine ease of use with powerful commerce features:
Price: From $29/month, plus transaction fees
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses wanting an all-in-one solution
Shopify has become the gold standard for eCommerce, powering over 4 million stores worldwide. It offers everything you need to start selling online without technical expertise.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
Price: Free plugin (hosting costs apply)
Best for: WordPress users wanting to add eCommerce capabilities
WooCommerce turns WordPress into a fully-functional eCommerce platform. It’s perfect for those already familiar with WordPress or wanting more control over their store.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
Price: eCommerce plans from $27/month
Best for: Creative professionals and small businesses prioritizing design
Squarespace combines beautiful design with simple eCommerce functionality, making it perfect for brands where aesthetics matter.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
Price: From $27/month
Best for: Beginners wanting to start selling quickly
Wix eCommerce offers a user-friendly approach to online selling with its drag-and-drop interface and integrated business tools.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
Price: From $29.95/month
Best for: Growing businesses needing scalability
BigCommerce offers more advanced features while maintaining relative simplicity, making it suitable for businesses planning to scale.
Key Features:
Drawbacks:
For most users starting a simple eCommerce store:
Additional Considerations:
Once you’ve selected your ideal CMS platform, here are the key steps to get started:
Choosing the right CMS is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your website’s success. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, understanding your specific needs helps narrow down the options:
Remember that your choice of CMS isn’t permanent – many platforms offer migration tools if your needs change. The most important factor is choosing a platform that matches your current requirements while providing room for growth.
Your CMS should empower you to manage your content effectively while supporting your long-term goals. Take time to experiment with different platforms before making your final decision, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the platform’s community or support teams for guidance.
Remember: the best CMS is the one that you and your team can use effectively to achieve your objectives while staying within your budget and technical capabilities.