Lesson 2: Understanding CMS and Popular Platforms
1. What is a CMS?
A CMS (Content Management System) is a tool that helps you create, manage, and publish content on a website — without writing any code.
It gives you a simple dashboard to control everything: blog posts, pages, images, layout, and more.
Think of it like using Google Docs — but to manage an entire website.
2. Key Features of a CMS
- Easily create and edit content (like blog posts and pages)
- Upload and manage images or videos
- Customize the design with themes
- Add features using plugins or apps
- Control user roles (Admin, Editor, Author, etc.)
- Make your site SEO-friendly (titles, links, descriptions)
3. Why Use a CMS?
- Saves time and effort
- No need to learn coding
- Lets you focus on your message instead of technology
- Works great for students, bloggers, freelancers, startups, and businesses
4. Top 10 CMS Platforms and Their Use Cases
| CMS Platform | Best For |
|---|---|
| WordPress.org | Blogs, websites, full control |
| Wix | Visual site building, drag-drop |
| Shopify | E-commerce stores |
| Webflow | Custom design + CMS |
| Ghost | Newsletters, publishing writers |
| Squarespace | Portfolios, brand sites |
| Blogger | Simple personal blogs |
| Joomla | Community & multi-language sites |
| Magento | Large eCommerce sites |
| Medium | Clean writing-focused blogging |
5. How to Choose the Right CMS
- Use WordPress.org for full customization and ownership
- Use Wix or Squarespace if you want simplicity and visuals
- Use Shopify if you’re focused on selling products
- Use Ghost or Medium if you just want to write
Next Lesson: Open Source Platforms and the WordPress Ecosystem
You’ve now learned how websites are built using CMS tools. Next, we’ll explore what open-source software really means, why it’s powerful, and how WordPress.org became the most widely used CMS in the world.