Keep Functionality in Mind When Selecting Your Next CMS

Choosing a CMS platform has numerous considerations to keep in mind, along with its functionality. It is vital you take the time to sit down with all stakeholders to discuss your needs and requirements. During this process, you will want to make a list of features, functions, and capabilities of the CMS.

Step 1: Define the core functionality you need.

All businesses have a set of parameters and core functions they will need in a CMS. Typically, this involves being able to manage content by creating, adding, deleting, editing, and organizing the flow and layout.

It is important to keep in mind that your core needs will not always mesh with a particular type of solution. In some cases, not all functionally will be available or be presented in an intelligent manner.

Step 2: Consider the type of editor and user interface you would like.

The editor and user interfaces are vital to being able to organize and deliver content in a productive and efficient manner. If the editor is not intuitive, and it makes it difficult to perform core functions, move on to a different solution unless it is possible to customize the editor to your specifications.

The same also applies to the end-user interface. It should be straight-forward and make it simple and easy for end-users to find the content and materials they require. For instance, Content Raven’s end-user interface provides a “Netflix-like” experience and is highly intuitive.

Step 3: What type of content do you want to manage with the system?

Some systems do great at managing text-based content and not so good with images, videos, presentations, PDF files, and other such data. One management function/feature you will want is search for both editors and end-users. Another management function you will want is the ability to add attributes and tags to content so it can be indexed and found during searches.

Step 4: Can the system be integrated on top of existing systems?

Some solutions will require you to re-do all of your current content from the ground up because the new solution is not cross-system compatible. Other modern intelligent content solutions, like those offered at Content Raven, can interface and integrate on top of your existing systems and current content.

Step 5: How will the system be used and by whom?

Do you want to use the system for multiple purposes? These could be:

• Training
• Customer Education/Support
• Onboarding
• Partner Enablement/Support
• Sales Enablement/Support

You also have to consider which end-users will need to access the content, like internal employees, outside sales reps, vendors, business partners, field technicians, customers, and so on. The solution you select should meet multiple needs and allow you to easily set roles and permissions for multiple users/groups.

As you can see, there are several vital considerations you need to carefully evaluate when choosing the best CMS solution for your business. To see how Content Raven’s intelligent content management solution could benefit your business and be customized to suit your needs, please feel free to contact us at sales@contentraven.com to request a free demo!