Content management systems (CMS) are widely used for building websites fast and easily. With their help, many users without much experience in programming have the opportunity to create websites relatively quickly and easily and to share the content on the Internet. To make the right choice, it is advisable to go through the following steps:
- analyze what resources your project needs
- set yourself concrete goals and targets
- determine the design requirements
- define access levels and functions
- the maintenance
Today we will introduce you to some of the most popular open-source CMSs (their code is publicly available for review and editing) - WordPress, OpenCart, PrestaShop, and Joomla.
WordPress
WordPress is the most widely used open-source platform. It is suitable for beginners with no programming knowledge. You can quickly and easily make your website functional and reliable for high visitor numbers.
With the help of WordPress, you can create company websites, blogs, online stores, forums, and almost anything else you can think of. You are not limited to a certain range of functions, but can always expand your website by adding various plugins.
PROS of WordPress:
- quick installation and simple configuration
- offers many free and premium themes
- WordPress e-commerce plugins, such as WooCommerce
- you get access to more than 45,000 free plugins
- you can add additional functions to the website
- you have control over your website
- most WordPress themes are mobile-friendly
CONS of WordPress:
- requires a good knowledge of the platform and constant updating of knowledge
- own control over archives and security
- constant updates, which can lead to problems with synchronization and timeout errors
- high level of hacker threat
If you are experiencing difficulties with WordPress and prefer to focus on the business side of your project, take a look at our service - WordPress Support. Our team of experts with extensive experience will take care of the optimal functioning of your website.
Joomla
Joomla is a good choice used by major global brands. It allows you to create a new website quickly and easily. Joomla is not only a free content management system with a range of free templates and extensions but also allows you to create innovative and creative websites.
PROS of Joomla:
- suitable for various types of websites, including e-commerce
- powerful content management system
- different access levels
- offers ready-made templates for easy customization
- a selection of applications to provide the website with additional functions
CONS of Joomla:
- more installation time (compared to WordPress)
- requires a certain amount of programming knowledge
- a smaller community (compared to WordPress), i.e. a smaller selection of themes and extensions
- free support is only available in the community, otherwise, there is a very high probability that it will cost you something
- You are responsible for updates, backups, and security
PrestaShop
PrestaShop is one of the largest platforms for creating an e-commerce website. PrestaShop has a standard template that is available after installation and can be used as a basis for creating your theme. PrestaShop also offers a wide range of templates and add-ons, making it the preferred choice of many users.
PROS of Prestashop:
- fast installation and convenient admin panel
- many available features and functionalities are required for online stores
- simple navigation
- extensive reporting data in the statistics area
CONS of Prestashop:
- to add a blog to your website, you need to install an additional module
- you need some programming experience
Uncover the differences between PrestaShop and WooCommerce—read our in-depth comparison.
OpenCart
OpenCart is a ready-made system (CMS) that allows you to set up your online store quickly and easily. It offers many administration and editing options, a wide range of free and paid applications to achieve your given goal.
PROS of OpenCart:
- simple installation with just a few clicks
- optimized e-commerce system
- intuitive and easy-to-use admin panel
- easy integration of social networks
- you receive specialized technical support
CONS of OpenCart:
- clunky cPanel installation
- different installations do not always work together
- not comprehensive reports and customer data
- additional module installation if you want a blog
