A CMS website is a dynamic website, which means that the content of any number of web pages on the site can change at any time. The content (data/information) that you read on a web page is not contained on the web page itself, but in a separate location. When the page is requested, the data or information is then looked up and added to the page.
The Content Management System acts as a middle man between the website and its information, or content. When the information is modified (by you, via the CMS), your website will display the latest/newest content.
For example, when you wish to publish (show) new products on your website, the CMS will provide you with the interface to upload the products' names, pictures, and descriptions. The web pages automatically retrieve and display the new information.
The illustration contains the following elements:
- Website: This is your database-driven web site, it has been built by your web design agency or your internal web development department.
- Web Server: This element is your web server. Hardware-wise it can be the same box (computer) that contains the database server (Mysql, MS SQL Server, Oracle). Simple2Edit administrative application is installed on your web server.
- Database Server: The database contains the content used in the web site. Both your web server and Simple2Edit read and write this database.
- Back-end: Just like your web site, the user interface is presented in a browser. The browser interface gives cross-platform access to the content stored in the database. No special client software is needed. The administratvie website is protected by user-specified login and password.
When do you need a CMS website:
- There will always be changes in your company. To tell the world about the updates, advances and products, a CMS website is absolutely necessary.
- Dynamic categories! New categories can be added at any time.
- If your products, or the information about those products, change the time saved by updating the information yourself without technical support can be extremely cost effective, and especially useful for ecommerce applications.
Managed content may include computer files, images, audio files, electronic documents and text. The idea behind a CMS is to make these files available inter-office, as well as over the web. A CMS would most often be used as an archive as well. Many companies use a CMS to store files in a non-proprietary form. Companies use a CMS to share files with ease, as most systems use server-based software, even further broadening file availability.
You or your company's needs will determine the type of website that is best for you. A basic website may be enough if the content of your website does not change often.
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