What are the Most Beneficial Headless Content Management System Trends?

Headless Content Management Systems (CMS), which are a new variant in the CMS landscape, are causing much buzz among developers – and for good reason. Unlike their traditional counterpart, headless CMSs provide greater flexibility, and for a fraction of the effort required.

How is this possible? Instead of deploying separate back-end and front-end interfaces to create, manage and display content, a headless CMS omits the front-end and utilizes only an API (hence the term ‘headless’). The API is responsible for pushing content out from the back-end, and onto any device of one’s choice – be it of varying screen dimensions or operating systems.

In layman’s terms, this means that you can create content without worrying about how it will look once it’s displayed – because the API takes care of it. So unlike a traditional CMS, a headless CMS doesn’t require you to develop a front-end, which can end up making your life much easier.

Here's a closer look at how headless CMS systems can benefit developers and businesses alike:

With a traditional CMS, the preset front-end interface displays content across a limited range of devices and operating systems. With a headless CMS, this limitation is alleviated, since the API is capable of pushing content out onto almost any device, over any operating system. Your content can reach more people and more devices seamlessly, with less effort from you and your teams.

Since the aspect of displaying content is completely automated through an API, you can dedicate more focus towards creating quality content and forgo the step of running regular maintenance procedures over various front-ends.

Should you wish to update or expand your content, it will be significantly more convenient to do so over a headless CMS, since you need not worry about what your front-end will look like – you can use any content creation method you like, and the API will take care of the rest.

Another advantage of a headless CMS is that you’re not locked into using the same system to create AND distribute your content. This means that you have more flexibility and options for your business since you can use the features and tools that work best for your business and content plans, even if those tools are offered by various solutions.

Now let's discuss some of the features and functionalities of a modern-day content management system 

• Built-In SEO 

While Google always tweaks and updates its algorithms, it is always better to have a built-in SEO functionality in your content management system to keep up with the search engine rankings. These SEO tools help in optimizing your URLs and content for the search engines with automated functionalities within the software. 

• Security

Cyber security is one of the biggest challenges for any business. Content management systems are always vulnerable to these attacks, a good content management system ensures maximum security to protect your data, brand, and valuable customer information. Plug-ins and third-party apps are also designed to enhance the security of the website. A CMS which allows verified third-party apps to integrate can significantly reduce the risk of security attacks on your website.  

• Multi-User Access

Most websites are managed by multiple users with different levels of access. A good CMS platforms provide multi-level user access to ensure a seamless workflow of the website with different roles, permissions, and assignments. 

• Easy to Use Interface 

An easy-to-use interface to handle some of the most complex functions on a CMS plays an important role in the success of any content management platform. No code web and mobile apps are trending and giving power to the users to create useful and functional platforms without the need of using codes and programming languages. 

• Pre-designed Templates 

Most popular Content management platforms are offering a wide range of pre-designed templates, with room for customization that enables users to set their website up and running in no time. 

•  Apps/Plugin Marketplace

While comparing content management software, you should definitely look for the 3rd party app and plugin marketplace. These apps and plugins provide you with limitless possibilities and easy integrations to provide your website with powerful features like SEO optimization, eCommerce, social media marketing, pop-ups, and much more.

• Support 

When your whole business is dependent on your website, you have to ensure that the content management platform provides sufficient support. While setting up you might face challenges and bottlenecks that require support from the content management software vendor. Make sure that you are choosing a platform that provides active support and debugging. 

Cloud-based CMS provides faster time to market, reduces the dependence on the IT teams, and ensures scalability and better security. 

Modern CMS platforms are mobile-friendly and their apps allow you to publish your content using a mobile device. Your CMS should also allow you to publish your content across multiple channels including social media and email marketing.  

Headless CMS also gives you complete control over your content. You can plan, organize and schedule better which gives you more time to make content rather than manage content. 

Another important factor while comparing the CMS and choosing one for your website is the cost. Most cloud content management systems charge a monthly fee that covers upgrades, maintenance, and bug fixes. Also, consider the training cost of your employees to use the content management platform. 

Our Content Management System (CMS) Software Buyer's Guide helps to choose the right CMS system for your website. You can also check the CMS reviews and rankings with their pricing and subscription plans. 

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