If you’ve never used one before, and have no prior knowledge in web design, getting to grips with a content management system can seem like a daunting task. I’ve recently been writing a user guide for CMS Made Simple which I pass on to clients as a handy reference. I’ve also been giving tutorials on CMS Made Simple, teaching clients how to update and manage their websites content.
Here are a few hints, tips and words of advice which you may find useful if you are using a CMS for your website – whether it’s WordPress, Joomla or any other open source content management system.
1. Always check the page you’re working on regularly. Open a spare window with the live version of the page you are working on and refresh when you make changes.
2. Does it look right? If your page is looking a bit out of line, or your images are spilling over the designated area, check the image size. Re-size and re-upload the image to fit the space you are working with. This is more aesthetically pleasing and ensures your website looks correct. Follow the image sized guidelines that your designer has provided to avoid this happening.
3. Try to keep within the theme. The fonts, colours and styles have been chosen for a reason and straying away will unbalance the uniformity of the website. Your designer should supply you with recommended styles, colours and fonts or have them set up and ready to use within the CMS. It’s a good idea to save a screenshot or ask your designer for a mock up as a reference for things like styles and image placements.
4. Keep file sizes as small as possible – large images and files take a long time to load, which is frustrating for users. Make sure your images are optomized for web use.
5. Take your time – it may take a while to populate your website if you have lot’s of content, so grab a cup of tea and take your time over the little details, as they make all the difference.