Is your organization debating whether or not to invest in content management software (CMS) or document management software (DMS)? Are you curious what the difference is between the two systems? Do you find yourself questioning the value of these systems for your organization? Are you currently aware of the distinct purposes of each management system along with the unique advantages of each?
If not, you will want to be sure to read on. We discuss what content management systems are along with what document management systems are. In addition, we also do a side-by-side comparison of the two systems, breaking down the similarities as well as the differences, taking the questions out of digital management.
What Is Content Management Software?
Before we get too far ahead of ourselves, let’s go ahead and define what CMS is. At its most basic level, CMS is a software application that is used to upload, edit, and manage content displayed on a website. Curious what a content management system is capable of? CMS can support a number of different processes. From improving site maintenance to providing superior content management to even streamlining scheduling, CMS offers a seamless and simple approach.
The Most Common Content Management Systems
There are a variety of content management systems available. While having unique attributes, each CMS also shares a common purpose: to make content management more efficient and productive.
Here are just some of the most popular content management systems you’ll come across:
- Microsoft SharePoint
- WordPress
- Drupal
- Joomla
- ModX
- Contentful
- Squarespace
- Textpattern
A Closer Look at Textpattern
Notorious as the most flexible open-source content management system available, Textpattern is a popular choice for many designers and developers. With a basic interface that is preferable for the tech-minded, Textpattern remains a top choice for those with a background in programming. However, that does not mean that Textpattern is the only content management solution available. While offering a robust number of features, Textpattern is certainly not the only option.
Textpattern vs. WordPress
WordPress is another commonly used content management system. While both Textpattern and WordPress offer impressive software, there are some differences between the two. For example, WordPress offers an extremely simple and user-friendly interface. Often ideal for the single blogger or website developer, WordPress makes content management simple even for those that lack HTML knowledge. However, Textpattern software offers the ability to manage multiple blogs without the need for additional plugins while also allowing for custom design features. In fact, with Textpattern, you can tweak your websites to your heart’s desire.
Who Should Use Textpattern Software?
As noted, there are some distinct capabilities that Textpattern open-source content management system is equipped with that may be more favorable for some users. Who is Textpattern ideal for? If you’re someone who is managing multiple sites, has extensive documentation needs, and plan on tweaking your site considerably, you may want to go with Textpattern. Unlike other systems, Textpattern offers a clean and adaptable approach to content management.
Is There Anyone Who Shouldn’t Use Textpattern Software?
Sure, there are plenty of benefits to using Textpattern, but that doesn’t mean that it is necessarily right for everyone. While some may find the features of this software useful, others may find them intimidating or unnecessary. For example, if you’re only looking to manage a single blog with minimal traffic, WordPress or Squarespace might be a better option than Textpattern. Not everyone will find the capabilities of Textpattern relevant and vice versa. There is not necessarily a right or wrong answer here; the best system is the one that is going to best suit your needs.
Our Textpattern review? It’s a good choice for those with extensive content management, plans to design, and the need to manage multiple sites.
Comparing CMS to DMS: What You Need to Know
A content management solution is only one piece of the puzzle. While CMS can effectively organize your website with the ability to update, add, delete, and manage pages of your site, a document management system can help you effectively manage your documents. As the name implies, DMS is designed to help you keep track of all those pesky files. From the Excel spreadsheets that your team has been working on to the PowerPoint you are planning to share at your next presentation, a document management system helps you organize these files. Unlike CMS, DMS deals strictly with specific file types such as PDF, Word, PowerPoint, etc.
Is there a Superior Option?
Is it possible that one system is superior to the other? This is a question that is commonly asked when comparing content management systems to document management systems. However, the real answer is that neither of these two systems is in conflict with each other. In fact, it’s actually quite the contrary; CMS and DMS serve 2 unique purposes. The capabilities—while similar—are also vastly different. For greater efficiency, it is wise to integrate both of systems into your operations. CMS used in conjunction with DMS can significantly help you streamline your operations while also reducing your overhead costs.
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