What is a CMS?

A CMS (Content Management System) is software that allows you to create, manage, and update website content without needing to write code. Instead of editing HTML and CSS files directly, you use a user-friendly interface to add text, images, and other content. Popular examples include WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace. A CMS separates your content from your website's design, making it easy for anyone to keep their site up to date.

The most popular CMS platforms include WordPress (powering over 40% of all websites globally), Wix, Squarespace, Shopify (for e-commerce), Drupal, and Joomla. WordPress is the most flexible and widely used, particularly for businesses that want full control over their website. Wix and Squarespace are simpler but more limited. Drupal and Joomla are powerful but require more technical expertise.

A CMS like WordPress is open-source software you can install on any web hosting and fully customise with themes and plugins. A website builder like Wix or Squarespace is an all-in-one platform where hosting, design, and content management are bundled together. Website builders are easier to start with but offer less flexibility. A CMS gives you more control and ownership but may require more initial setup.

For small businesses, a CMS offers several key benefits: you can update your website yourself without paying a developer for every small change, multiple team members can contribute content, you maintain a consistent design across all pages, and you can add features like blogs, contact forms, or booking systems easily. This saves both time and money whilst keeping your website fresh and relevant.

If you plan to update your website regularly, add blog posts, or make content changes without involving a developer, then yes - a CMS is highly recommended. However, for a simple one-page website that rarely changes, a static HTML site might suffice. Most businesses benefit from a CMS because it gives them independence and the ability to respond quickly to changing needs.

Consider these factors: your technical skill level (WordPress needs more learning than Wix), budget (WordPress is free but hosting costs extra; Squarespace has monthly fees), required features (e-commerce, booking systems, multilingual), scalability needs, and how much control you want over design and functionality. For most UK small businesses, WordPress offers the best balance of power and accessibility.

A headless CMS separates the content management backend from the frontend presentation layer. Unlike traditional CMS platforms where content and design are tightly connected, a headless CMS stores your content and delivers it via an API to any frontend - websites, mobile apps, or other devices. Popular headless CMS options include Strapi, Contentful, and Sanity. This approach is typically used for more complex, multi-platform projects.

Yes, WordPress remains an excellent choice in 2025. It powers over 40% of all websites, has a massive ecosystem of themes and plugins, and continues to evolve with features like the block editor. Its open-source nature means you own your content and can move hosts freely. For UK small businesses wanting a professional website with room to grow, WordPress remains the most versatile and cost-effective option.