Web Content Management

Chapter 3. Acquiring a CMS

Before we discuss features and get into the specifics of CMS architecture, let’s take a brief detour into the software business. In order to start working with a CMS, you need to get your hands on one.

Your search will usually begin from one of three starting points:

Software

If you begin your search by looking for CMS software first, vendors will likely introduce you to one of their “partners” to assist in scoping the implementation, or they might offer their own professional services group for that (assuming they have one).

Integrator

If you begin your search by looking for a CMS integrator (a developer or firm that installs and configures CMSs), they will usually specialize in one or more CMSs and will invariably attempt to steer you toward those systems. They would obviously like to implement a system with which they’re comfortable, and/or for which they’ll receive a markup, discount, or kickback from the vendor.¹

Selection consultant

If you begin your search by using an independent CMS selection consultant, they will help you select a system based on your requirements and desired features, presumably free from influence or bias. The drawback is additional expense and likely additional time, but as a participant in many formal CMS selection processes, I can validate that it’s money and time well spent.

Those three types of searches should identify one or more CMS vendors, each representing one of the following paradigms of acquisition: