Choosing the right website platform is a key decision in any organisation’s new digital project, and there are more options now than ever. This is a high-level overview of how we break it down.
We focus on two of the most popular approaches, Content Management Systems (CMS) and Software as a Service (SaaS).
Choosing between CMS and SaaS
When we started building websites professionally in 2006, self-hosted CMS websites were the best option available. Systems like WordPress, Joomla and Drupal offer flexibility, advanced features and full ownership, which suits organisations that need customisation, multiple users or complex workflows.
In recent years, SaaS platforms like Shopify and Squarespace have become a genuine alternative. They are easier to manage day-to-day, handle their own security and maintenance, and suit organisations that want a capable website without the technical overhead. The trade-off is less flexibility, and the organisation is leasing the site rather than owning it.
Both options have pros and cons. The best option depends on the organisation’s situation, and we start assessing it early in the first conversation with a new client. The comparison below gives a quick overview.
Platform Comparison – CMS v SaaS Websites
Content Management System (CMS)
- Add your own content
- Add your own logo/design
- Learning curve to build yourself
- Multiple page layouts
- Website page builder
- Use and reuse content in multiple places
- Template/theme easier to change
- Multiple users, different security levels
- DIY SEO from basic to extensive
- Social media integration
- Core software is free
- 3rd party extensions available free/paid
- Install on own server/paid hosting account, can be moved
- Wide range of options to add additional functionality later
- Own your website
- Download/backup/move site as required
- Requires ongoing maintenance/updates
- Highly configurable and extendable
- Control over site speed (host in AU or international)
- Access to SQL database
- Collect payments via most payment providers
- Online training resources (crowd-sourced)
- Limited provided smartphone apps
Software as a Service (SaaS)
- Add your own content
- Add your own logo/design
- Simple to use, small learning curve
- Multiple page layouts
- Website page builder
- Limited ability to use and reuse content in multiple places
- Template/theme difficult/impossible to change once started
- Limited security levels
- Basic SEO integrated
- Social media integration
- Monthly subscription
- 3rd party extensions available free/paid
- Proprietary platform, can’t be moved
- Additional functionality dependent on platform and package
- Lease your website
- Site only available while subscription is current
- No ongoing maintenance/updates (managed by platform)
- Limited to platform boundaries
- Site speed dependant on platform/server location
- No database access
- Collect payments via most payment providers
- Online training resources (provided by platform)
- Free smartphone apps
How we help
Platform selection is part of every Solution Delivery engagement. Not sure which platform suits the organisation? Get in touch and we will help choose a solution that fits its goals and workflow.
