Published in January 2022, this guide examines five of the most widely used content management systems (CMS) for website creation. A CMS is a platform that allows users to build websites without programming knowledge, using graphical configuration to create pages. The choice of platform should depend on the website owner’s specific objectives; examining competitor sites can help clarify goals before selecting a CMS.
WordPress
WordPress.org powers 39 percent of websites globally, making it the most popular CMS. The platform offers flexibility to create any type of site: e-commerce stores, blogs, landing pages, forums, and subscription sites. Base functionality is included in the free version, with additional features available through plug-ins. Themes provide pre-designed layouts, and plug-ins like Elementor enable block-based page creation. The platform supports automatic translation into any language. A drawback is the learning curve required to manage the system, though most users can overcome this initial difficulty.
Wix and Squarespace
Wix is a fully hosted platform combining ease of use with extensive functionality. It includes hundreds of customizable templates and a drag-and-drop builder. Both free and paid apps extend capabilities. However, Wix’s hosted service displays the platform’s own advertising unless users pay for an ad-free subscription. Squarespace, a professional site-building platform, offers enterprise-level hosting infrastructure and ready-made, fully customizable designs. Content addition is straightforward through point-and-click editing and drag-and-drop layout tools. Its limitation is restricted add-on functionality, as additional features come only from Squarespace’s own development team.
Shopify and Gator
Shopify is designed specifically for e-commerce, powering over 500,000 businesses with 1 million active users. More than 40 billion dollars in products have been sold through the platform. As an all-in-one solution, Shopify handles updates, backups, and payment processing for any credit card automatically, plus third-party payment systems. Its disadvantage is higher pricing for beginners compared to other platforms. Gator, created by HostGator, is a fully hosted platform offering over 200 professional design templates with simple customization options through the builder. Unlike some competitors, Gator offers no free plan or free trial, and modifications beyond basic design cannot be easily delegated to developers.
Frequently asked questions
Which CMS powers the largest share of websites?
WordPress.org powers 39 percent of websites created globally, making it the most widely used CMS platform.
What is Shopify’s primary focus?
Shopify is designed specifically for e-commerce and online stores, with over 500,000 businesses using the platform and more than 40 billion dollars in products sold through it.
Which platforms are fully hosted with no hosting costs?
Wix, Squarespace, and Gator are all fully hosted platforms, meaning users do not pay separately for hosting services.
