When it comes to building a website, two of the most popular options are - content management systems (CMS) and website builders. Each has its own set of features and benefits that cater to different business needs.
Choosing which to use depends on several factors such as the complexity of your website, the level of customization you need, your budget and your technical expertise. The right choice will help you effectively manage your online content and make sure your website grows alongside your business.
Understanding content management systems (CMS)
A content management system, or CMS is a software that enables you to create, edit and publish digital content. It's designed to help manage the content of a website with ease, even if you don't have much technical knowledge.
Learn more: Wix Studio CMS
Advantages of using a CMS
Flexibility and scalability: A CMS can grow with your business, allowing you to expand your website as needed.
User permissions and multiple contributors: You can set up multiple user accounts with different permissions, making it easy for a team to collaborate on content.
Extensive customization options: With access to themes and plugins, you can customize the look and functionality of your site.
Disadvantages of CMS
Complexity and learning curve: Some CMS platforms can be complex and might require some time to learn.
Cost of development and maintenance: While many CMSs are free to use, costs can arise from hosting, premium themes or plugins and maintenance.
Understanding website builders
Website builders are designed to be intuitive and straightforward, making them an excellent choice for individuals and businesses looking to create a website quickly and with minimal fuss.
They offer pre-designed website templates and drag-and-drop interfaces to make a website without manual code editing. They simplify the web design process, making it accessible for website users with no technical background.
Advantages of website builders
Ease of use: Their intuitive design and user experience makes it easy for anyone to build a professional-looking website.
Quick setup and deployment: You can have a website up and running in a matter of hours or even minutes if you use an AI website builder.
Inclusive hosting and security updates: Most website builders, including Wix, include web hosting services and take care of security updates for you (including auto backup).
Disadvantages of website builders
Limited customization and flexibility: While they offer ease of use, they may not provide the level of customization that some businesses require. For this you might need a more advanced solution, such as Wix Studio or Wix Enterprise.
Potential for lower scalability: As your business grows, you might find that a website builder can't accommodate all the new changes or increased traffic as effectively as a CMS. However this can also often overcome by using an ecommerce website builder, for example.
CMS vs website builder and the key differences
When deciding on the foundation for your website, understanding the key differences between a CMS and a website builders is essential. These differences can significantly impact how your website works.
Functionality, flexibility and control
CMS are known for their robust functionality via a wide range of themes and plugins. This can mean greater control over your site's design and structure but requires a steeper learning curve.
A website builder on the other hand focuses on simplicity and ease of use with potentially less flexibility. Although this is not always the case depending on the website builder you use. It's ideal for those who want to quickly create a website and now with AI website builders, it can be done even faster.
Cost
Sometimes CMS have higher upfront costs due to custom development or premium plugins. Website builders can usually be used for free, or with lower initial costs involving monthly or annual subscription fees that include hosting and maintenance.
Scalability
Traditionally CMS have been cited as the best option for scalability and a growing site. However most website builders now allow you to build a site that can also handle sudden traffic upsurges or a lot of traffic over time. They can also handle multiple pages and advanced functionality, like an online store might need, for example.
CMS vs. website builder: which to choose
Choosing between a CMS and a website builder often comes down to specific needs and scenarios. Here's how to determine which platform might be the best fit for your project.
When to choose a CMS
If you require a website with custom integrations, a CMS is likely the better choice. When you anticipate the need for scaling up your content or traffic significantly, a CMS can accommodate that growth. For businesses that want multiple team members to manage and contribute to the website with varied permissions, a CMS offers this flexibility.
Create a website with Wix Studio and enjoy all the advantages of a CMS, including multi team management and complex functionality.
When to choose a website builder
If you need to get a website up quickly without much technical expertise, a website builder is ideal. For smaller businesses or individuals, like a coffee shop or boutique, who don't expect much change in their website's size or complexity, website builders offer an all-in-one solution which include marketing. and analytics tools.
When budgets are tight, and you need an inclusive package with hosting and web security, website builders can be cost-effective.
Consider these options:
What to keep in mind when choosing which to choose for your business website
Ultimately whether you choose to use a CMS, like Wix studio or a website builder, like Wix, depends on your business. Here's what to take into consideration when deciding between the two:
Business size: Smaller businesses may find a website builder easier to use in order to create a site fast. Enterprise sites may need a more advanced customized solution.
Industry: Some industries have specific needs that only a CMS can fulfill due to its extensive customization capabilities. Agencies, managing multiple client sites for example.
Goals: Consider your long-term goals, if you plan to scale up or need complex features, a CMS might be more suitable.
Learn more: Wix vs Wix Studio