Mastering web content: A dive into traditional, headless, and decoupled Content Management Systems

When it comes to creating digital experiences by the sheer fact we want the end result to be completely effortless there can be a lot that remains unseen, tucked away behind the curtain while the finished project shines in the spotlight.

This blog series on CMS is both an homage to the technological solutions that make it possible to do what we do, and an effort to lift the curtain on what makes a great web experience. We’ll also share why we choose specific solutions for different projects, and why it’s important to match the technology with the outcome.

What is a Content Management System (CMS)?

Let’s start at the beginning. A Content Management System (CMS) is essentially the backbone of a website. It’s a software application that lets users create, edit, manage, and publish content without the usual load of manual coding.

With additional features offered according to the services provider, at its core a good CMS will help both our internal developers and our clients. From our end, we can achieve more with less, extending benefits to our clients - including making it easier to create, edit, organise and publish content on a site.

In turn, this can greatly improve how simple it is to keep websites fresh, improve user engagement, drive SEO and establish a strong brand reputation. Not to mention, our client can respond quickly to market changes and customer needs, updating content on the fly - even if there isn’t a coder in sight.

Defining the main types of CMS, and finding what works

There are different types of CMS solutions available - each with its own strengths and suited to specific needs or preferences. The ones we’re looking at here are traditional, headless and decoupled CMSs.

Traditional CMS

Traditional CMSs are like the Swiss Army knives of content management. They integrate backend content management with frontend display, offering an all-in-one solution. A good example of a traditional CMS is Wordpress, or Silverstripe, a lesser-known gem that provides a flexible, developer-friendly environment.

This type of CMS simplifies the process of building and managing websites by combining content creation, storage, and presentation within a single system. (Explore more about Silverstripe in the next blog in this series.)

Headless CMS

Headless CMSs take a different approach by separating backend content management from frontend presentation. This allows users to utilise any technology to design the frontend, while the CMS delivers content via APIs.

Sanity is known for its real-time collaboration and flexible content modelling, making it a favourite among developers. (Sanity features in the last blog of this series.) Another popular choice for enterprises is Contentful, which offers a powerful API and robust content infrastructure. This flexibility makes headless CMSs ideal for delivering content across multiple platforms and devices.

Decoupled CMS

Decoupled CMSs, also known as hybrid CMSs, offer the best of both worlds. They provide a traditional CMS interface for content management but deliver content through APIs, similar to headless CMSs. Essentially, a decoupled CMS maintains the familiar backend content management capabilities while enabling a headless approach for the frontend.

An example of this is using Silverstripe or Drupal with a decoupled frontend, where Silverstripe handles content management and delivers it to various frontend frameworks. With a single backend for both the CMS and any additional backend tasks, be that form submissions, search and more, Silverstripe allows for greater flexibility and ease of use.

This approach allows for flexibility and customisation in how content is presented to users - a big win when working across different browsers and devices.

Choosing the right CMS for your needs

So, how do you pick the right CMS? It all boils down to your specific needs and the factors that matter most to you.

Factors to consider

• Scalability: Can the CMS handle your website’s growth and increased traffic?
• Flexibility: Does it allow customisation and integration with other tools?
• Ease of use: Is the interface user-friendly enough for your team?
• Pricing: What will you pay in the long run, considering licensing fees, hosting and the cost of maintenance for developers?

Making the most of your vision with expert direction

Choosing the right CMS isn't just a technical decision, it's a pivotal choice that shapes the future of your website's performance and user experience. By exploring the different types of CMS and their unique advantages, or teaming up with the experts (that’s us) you're better equipped to make a choice that aligns perfectly with your specific needs.

Whether you’re drawn to the all-in-one nature of traditional CMSs, the flexibility of headless CMSs, or the hybrid approach of decoupled CMSs, the right tool is waiting for you.

Want more? Our next blog post uncovers the unique features and benefits of Silverstripe CMS.