Summary

What Are Content Management Systems?

• Content management systems allow users to manage content on all platforms, such as social media and web content, to create a consistent message and image for the organization.
• Using a CMS promotes collaboration and quality control and facilitates search engine optimization, security, and the ability to reuse content.
• There are seven stages of the content management lifecycle: organization, creation, storage, workflow, editing/versioning, publishing, and removal/archiving.
• Content management systems include features for controlling each part of the content management lifecycle, including page templates, document libraries, and calendaring.

Common Content Management Systems

• Web 2.0 enables users to create, curate, and manage content by using WYSIWYG software, which allows them to visualize how their content will be displayed.
• There are three main types of CMS: open-source, proprietary, and enterprise. An open-source CMS provides free access to basic features and functionality. A proprietary CMS can offer faster, more customized solutions but requires licensing. An enterprise CMS offers high storage capacity and security, making it an ideal platform for day-to-day workflow.

Creating Content with a Content Management System

• WordPress is a CMS that is easy to install, free, and open-source. This makes it an ideal platform for small businesses, start-ups, nonprofits, and bloggers.
• To create a business website with WordPress, you may want to make use of features such as search engine optimization (SEO) and analytics that measure your site’s performance.

Search Engine Optimization

• Search engines use computer programs that filter through keywords and website content to return and rank search lists.
• SEO refers to processes that help optimize search results to increase the chance that your company’s website will appear higher up in the user’s search results list.
• Techniques for optimizing your website for effective searches include using an easy-to-understand URL, using descriptive titles, and keeping your page heading engaging.

Social Media in Business

• Businesses can use social media to reach their target audience, connect with existing customers, engage new customers, and make use of customer feedback.
• Using the appropriate social media and networking platforms can benefit a business by generating more customers, building a loyal customer base, and providing exposure to other audiences.
• Creating original content for social media requires developing and producing posts as well as curating your content in ways that are consistent with your brand.