Chicago, May 2005 / --
Web sites, by nature, are dynamic. Whether an organization's Web site provides functional tools to their audience or company information, news needs to be updated with the latest and greatest goings on. An efficient tool for updating this type of information is commonly called a content management system (CMS). A CMS provides a means for any non-technical user to manage content on the Web via a user-friendly interface.

	Example Web Content Management Systems Interface
	A CMS is an excellent tool for allowing non-technical users to update Web sites, control editing work flow, while maintaining design consistency.

The benefits of a CMS are most apparent in cases where content needs to be updated often, especially when involving multiple users. Consider a site that provides articles. Without a CMS, a Web master is required to add pages, add links, adjust formatting, and go back and forth with the article author or editor to continually make updates. This process is a drag, to say the least. On a large scale, it becomes nearly impossible, most notably at the end of the month when all new articles come in and are expected to be posted in a few days.

A CMS makes Web authoring a cinch. Non-technical users can add or update pages, editing copy, adding styles and even images to the page. Content created in programs such as Word can be pasted into a CMS text editor.

Content management systems empower and motivate contributors. After entering new or edited content, authors can preview the pages in their browser. This subtle feature will actually reduce save valuable back-and-forth time between the author and Web master to make those small changes that make the difference. Passing this creation process directly to the author decentralizes the updating activity, enabling more updates in a shorter time.

Controlling the Flow

Introducing a CMS to the Web environment doesn't necessarily mean Web authoring anarchy. Quite the contrary. With a custom designed CMS, your organization can keep authors within the confines of the site design. Headers, fonts, styles, colors, etc. can all be pre-programmed to be consistent with the organization brand Web structure.

Beyond controlling the cosmetics, the CMS can have a hierarchy structure of editing. For example, it may be necessary for any page within a particular category to be reviewed by two editors before going live. A custom CMS system can provide this hierarchy along with other proofing rules, alleviating worries about any live posting of uncertified content.

About Chicago Software Solutions

Chicago Software Solutions is a full-service, custom software provider focused on improving business practices through technology. With experience in database applications, office tool customizations, Internet development and PDA applications, Chicago Software Solutions works closely with each client to provide the solutions they need.