Website platform

[JeanieWalker]

I read through this 2008 Moz post and comments: http://www.seomoz.org/blog/choosing-the-right-cms-platform-for-your-website-from-an-seo-perspective but a few years have passed since the discussion.

I am looking to completely revamp my site which is primarily static and built on WordPress, and create a rich community environment that is highly interactive and serves the visitor well. The question continues to come up why I'm using WP vs DotNet vs Drupal vs Juumla. The honest answer is: 1) it's easy for a non-tech like me to update, 2) seems like a lot of plugins are available for use, 3) has a high adoption rate (stable)

But also, I kind of don't know what I don't know. I wanted to open up the conversation to see why others favor a specific platform as it relates to the following needs:

1. Must be non-tech EASY to use (no high learning curve

2. Lots of plugins and interoperability - can add and remove as needed/times change

3. Must support forum/community needs and conversations

4. Must be able to create granular authentication / permissions for different audiences to see "permissioned" content

BONUS if it can interoperate with MS Dynamics CRM (unfortunately, sigh)

I've been burned in the past by using teams that had a predilection for a platform simply because they were comfortable with it - not because it was right for my needs.

I have a hard time understanding pro/con conversations if the technologies are too focused on the tech and not enough of what the technology delivers, and I'm naturally resistant to technologies that require a techie, rather than a marketing expert to use them.Thoughts anyone? Would love to hear Mozer opinions - thanks in advance

[AlanMosley]

An off the rack website, is never going to be as good as bespoke website can be, there s an advanatge to having a CMS, but it comes with a cost.

No matter how manny SEO plugins they may have, CMS systems spit out sloppy code with lots of violations.

It a bit like bying clothes of the rack, v's going to the tailor, there is a trade off

[SEOKeith]

If you are happy with Wordpress why change? I would not load your site up with plugins though, your blog / site will end up slow and insecure.

If you are having a bespoke site built and require a CMS I'v heard good things about MODx from a few dev's

[AlanMosley]

yes i have also heard good things about modx, but have not had the time to have alook myslf.

I also think you are correct about plugins, they are often created by people without the ability to test them in a wide range of circumstances. They can also start to conflick with oter plugins

[KnutDSvendsen]

I have used Umbraco and Sitecore lately. Umbraco is the easiest to install and use, but there's also a free version of Sitecore available. You might need some support to install a CMS, but once you get used to using the tool you'll see that you have new opportunities to design the user experience, work on your SEO, and enjoy creating great content for your readers.