Quick Facts: USM Web Content Management System

What is a Web Content Management System (CMS) and how does it work?

• Software and database system that automates the process of creating and maintaining web pages.
• Provides a workflow and permissions structure where multiple authors and publishers can contribute to the creation and maintenance of online content.
• Authoring and editing is done in an online WYSIWYG (“what you see is what you get”) editor, much like word processing software interfaces.

What are the benefits of a content management system (CMS)?

• There is no special software to install; all that is needed is a web browser and working internet connection.
• There is no need for web authors and publishers to learn technical code.
• Content can be created, edited and published quickly.Professionally designed templates will allow web authors and publishers to focus on content development without worrying about its visual presentation.
• The CMS will be built upon a recommended site architecture which will help departments organize their content in a way that leads to a consistent user experience across the USM web site.
• Page changes can be tracked and rolled-back easily to earlier revisions when needed.
• Site owners can self-manage who has access to author and publish content (i.e., no need to submit¬—and wait on—a Help Desk request).Improved accessibility for users with disabilities.Improved search engine optimization of content.=

What will USM require of its Web site Owners, Publishers, and Authors?

• Resources to devote to migrating existing content to the new system.
• Resources to devote to creating new content where identified in the adopted site architecture.
• Attention to proper document structure when authoring pages.
• Familiarity with best practices in writing for the web.
• An ongoing commitment to keeping content well-organized and up-to-date. 

Download the Web Content Management System (CMS) Fact Sheet.