SEO without CMS: Impossible?

[EliteErikSEO]

Is WordPress the ONLY way to go for an SEO friendly website? Any REAL reason for using anything but?

[CSawatzky]

Wordpress certainly isn't the only way. This is a pretty broad question. Can you elaborate a bit more as to why you're asking?

Many people build custom sites and their SEO presence is just fine. Wordpress is also great. Many different platforms offer different items, so I guess it all depends on what you want out of a website.

[irvingw]

Joomla can be SEO friendly, there are custom made CMS platforms, if your site is small you don't even need a CMS.

[JCurrier]

Wordpress is a solid foundation to build any site on. However, it is not the only option. You should examine your needs and then weigh your options. If you are new to webdesign and don't have much to invest, then Wordpress is a fantastic solution.

If you are trying to build something with functionality beyond just a blog, eg. ecommerce sites and forums, something might be a better suit for you. Wordpress can do these things, but something else might be easier to get into.

As far as SEO goes, almost any self-respecting CMS out there that expects to last should be SEO friendly.

Are you looking for recommendations for a specific solution, or is there something you don't like about Wordpress?

[nurzhyk]

You can build your site on clear HTML but it solution is from past century and it very unproductive way. If question is about choice of CMS - big count of  CMS  is SEO friendly, you not must select Wordpress only.

[Jeepster]

Many people build custom sites and their SEO presence is just fine... it all depends on what you want out of a website.

Couldn't agree more.