How do you choose between web-based and desktop CMS?

A web-based CMS is a good option for ease of use and affordability. If you need more advanced features or more room for customization, a desktop CMS may be a better choice. If you are uncomfortable with tech, choose a web-based CMS, as it is easier to use and requires no software installation. A desktop CMS may be a better choice if you are comfortable with tech and want more control over the design and functionality. If you are working with a team, a web-based CMS is a good option because it eases collaborating and sharing content. A desktop CMS may be a better choice if you are working alone. Always consider your site's specific needs; for example, if you want an e-commerce site, consider a CMS that supports e-commerce.

Choosing between a web-based and desktop CMS depends on needs and expertise. Web-based CMS offers accessibility and ease but may have ongoing costs. Desktop CMS offers control but requires more technical management. Consider scalability, cost, customization, security, and technical abilities for an informed choice.

A consideration for choosing a CMS could be whether or not you want to utilize an open-source CMS, such as WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal. An open-source CMS Open has source code that anyone can inspect, modify, and enhance. As a result, the innovation of the CMS itself is driven by a large group of contributors, while the control over the code stays with the user of the CMS. As a user, you can leverage third-party software that's written to enhance the CMS, like plugins and themes, while also counting on the CMS to advance for free. This is why WordPress, for example, is the largest CMS with over 40% market share. You can use WordPress to build a website and use easy enhancements (often free) from a repository of over 20,000 plugins.

Whichever option you choose consider HOW and WHERE you or your team will use your CMS. Centralized offices where each person has a dedicated workspace and your tech support is nearby to help them troubleshoot can benefit greatly from desktop platforms. However, if your business is setup to promote remote or hybrid work where teams might work on different devices, then web-based solutions are way easier. Next, consider other programs you already use and how easily it integrates with your other tools. For instance, if you're already in the Adobe or Microsoft ecosystem, upgrading to their CMS solution may be easier and more cost-effective than looking for an alternative outside that family.

Just to clearly state some factors that should be considered; a. Budget: Web-based CMSs are typically less expensive than desktop CMSs, both in terms of the initial purchase price and the ongoing costs. b. Technical expertise: If you have no coding knowledge, a web-based CMS will be easier to use. Web-based CMSs are typically designed to be user-friendly, with drag-and-drop interfaces and other features that make it easy to create and manage your website content without any coding knowledge. Desktop CMSs typically offer more features and customization options than web-based CMSs. If you need a CMS with a lot of features and customization options, a desktop CMS may be a better fit.