Web2.0 - CMS, bigger and bigger, do I really need this?

 

I need a Content Management System (CMS). We have heard this before in a lot of conversations with our clients. But when we ask them what they would actually like to do with a CMS web design system we encounter a lot of confusion. It is always very interesting (we pretty much hear the same from everybody) that we are not the first ones that the customer had talked to. A lot of times other so called web designers had approached the same customer with statements like "you need a CMS system..."

True, a CMS system could be an easy way to update and maintain a web site on a regular basis but the question is does it make sense? In most of the cases the answer is "no". From our experience, most people are totally overwhelmed with chore plus finding the time for this chore is a major factor. We have met companies that have spent 10000 of dollars for a system like that. We understand how hard it is to find a well qualified web design company. In my opinion, the problem is solely with the design company. The general rule is "less is better". So with this being said in 90% of the cases a static web site is more than sufficient plus in addition to that they are also a lot less expensive.

We had the most success with basic web design pages which reflects the current needs of the client and which can get expanded down the road. This also guarantees that clients with a small budget get high quality design. The same is applicable in regards to forums and blogs. If you don't have the time to make yourself familiar with a CMS system which is designed to be always evolving "don't do it!!" This is just my opinion from 15 years of design experience.

Markus