WordPress and Joomla are open source Content Management Systems (CMS) used to build and manage websites. A CMS allows several contributors to create, edit and publish content, which makes it easier to keep a website up to date over time.
Open source means the core software is free to download and use. Functionality is extended through plugins and extensions, some of them commercial, which makes a CMS a cost-effective option for highly customised websites. For more detail, visit the WordPress and Joomla websites.
How does a CMS work?
A CMS provides a flexible and scalable website solution for organisations that need control over layout, functionality and content. Building a CMS website usually needs some technical skill, depending on its complexity, and the ongoing costs vary with the size of the site, the level of traffic and the features it provides.
Day-to-day editing needs far less skill than building, and the WordPress block editor is easy to learn. Our FAQ on updating a website covers the levels of access available and the training we offer.
CMS advantages and disadvantages
- Highly flexible and scalable, which suits advanced requirements
- Extensive customisation of layouts, features and integrations
- Ownership and control, because the website can sit in the organisation’s own hosting account. See our FAQ on owning a website.
- Technical management, with some learning curve and regular upkeep. See our FAQ on website maintenance.
Which CMS is best?
The answer starts with the organisation’s goals and target audience. Once those are clear, the tools can be chosen to suit them. Many of the organisations we work with are well served by WordPress or Joomla, which offer strong customisation, scalability and long-term flexibility.
For a comparison with SaaS platforms such as Squarespace, Shopify and Wix, see What is the best website platform for your organisation? or our FAQ on SaaS platforms.
Need help deciding?
Our Solution Delivery service covers platform selection and website builds for organisations that want advice on whether a CMS is the right fit.
