What is a CMS?

Summary

It’s Kevin again, from Syndkt!

In today’s newsletter, we will go over:

• A quick and easy way to add social proof to your website.

• Resources on what “above the fold” means and how many pages are needed on a website.

• A breakdown of Content Management Systems (CMS).

And much, much more…

Web/Brand Tip of the Day

It is imperative to include social proof on the home page of your website. The easiest and quickest way to do this is to include a list of company logos from notable companies that you have worked with. Check to see if your website has this, and consider adding this to your site!

Of course, having multiple forms of social proof is important. Have more time to upgrade your social proof? Consider adding written testimonials, video testimonials, reviews, certifications, awards, media recognition, and/or case studies.

Top Links of the Day

• An example of a website with a great amount of social proof (link).

• What is “above the fold” and the importance (link).

• How many pages does your website need (link)?

Tweet of the Day

Deep Dive: What is a CMS?

A CMS, or Content Management System, is the foundation where your website is built and managed. Think of it as the engine that powers your online presence. The big players in the CMS space are WordPress, Webflow, and Squarespace. Each platform has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your business's unique needs and goals. Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing the right CMS:

1. Level of Customization

When it comes to customization, Webflow is the clear frontrunner. Unlike Squarespace, which offers a more templated approach, or WordPress, which requires coding for advanced customization, Webflow allows you to design your website exactly as you envision—pixel by pixel. This makes it ideal for businesses looking for complete creative freedom to build something truly unique.

2. Maintenance

WordPress websites often rely on third-party plugins to add features and functionality. While this offers flexibility, it also means higher maintenance. Each plugin requires regular updates, and neglecting them can lead to bugs, broken functionality, or even security vulnerabilities. By contrast, Webflow and Squarespace rely less on third-party tools, resulting in lower ongoing maintenance and a smoother user experience.

3. Security

The reliance on plugins in WordPress introduces potential security risks. If plugins aren’t updated frequently, they can expose your website to cyberattacks or cause it to malfunction. Additionally, because plugins are created by external developers, WordPress has less direct control over their quality and security. Platforms like Webflow and Squarespace, which don’t depend on third-party plugins, offer a more secure environment with fewer vulnerabilities to manage.

4. Support & Acceptance

As the most widely used CMS, WordPress has an abundance of resources, from tutorials and forums to expert communities, making it easier to find help when needed. However, Webflow and Squarespace also offer strong customer support, including guides, webinars, and responsive service teams. While WordPress shines in sheer availability of resources, the more intuitive interfaces of Webflow and Squarespace may require less technical support overall.

5. Price

Pricing varies based on the tier and features you select. In general:

• WordPress: The base cost is typically the cheapest, but additional expenses for hosting, premium themes, and plugins can add up.

• Squarespace: A mid-tier option, with plans usually ranging from around $12-$40/month.

• Webflow: The premium choice, with plans starting around $14/month for basic sites and scaling up to $40+/month for advanced features.

While WordPress is budget-friendly upfront, Webflow and Squarespace may offer better value for businesses that want less maintenance or advanced design capabilities baked into the platform.

Choosing the Right CMS

Selecting a CMS isn’t just about what’s popular; it’s about what works best for your specific needs. Whether you prioritize customization, ease of use, or long-term security, there’s a platform that fits your goals. If you’re unsure which one to choose, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help guide you in the right direction.

How I Can Help

1. I have free guide that shows you exactly what to put on your website for maximum conversions (link).

2. If you are looking for a website or brand redesign - Book a call to learn how I can help. I have worked with companies up to $50m in annual revenue, achieving immediate lead generation (link).

3. If you are looking for general ongoing web, brand, or graphic design support, learn more about our monthly unlimited design subscription (link).

Or, you can just reply to this email.

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