Content Management Systems
If the content of your website needs to be updated regularly, a Content Management System (CMS) is usually recommended. A content management system is web based software used to create, edit, manage, and publish content (without the need for a web developer). The content managed can include text, images, documents, video or sound files.
I have years of experience in developing websites with content management systems. These can range from small systems for personalised blogs or simple product catalogues through to large corporate websites which require document and image repositories, version tracking and multi-publisher permission heirarchies.
Below are some recommended options for small to medium sized businesses. These are all open-source CMS’s which means the software itself is free.
WordPress
WordPress is the leader in blog or article based software. Recent improvements mean that it can now be used as a conventional CMS. It is very quick to implement and intuitive to use. (This website is built on a WordPress platform.)
ExpressionEngine
This popular CMS is well worth the license fee ($US250). It provides everything you need without the distractions of unnecessary functionality. It is perfectly customisable and highly recommended.
Joomla & Drupal
These are the 2 leaders in open source CMS software. Both are excellent and play to different strengths. I would recommend one over the other based purely on your website requirements.