Professional LAMP: Linux®, Apache, MySQL®, and PHP5 Web Development

13.1. Types of CMSs

CMSs come in all shapes and sizes, and can basically manage anything being worked on by a team of individuals. From managing simple static website content, to allowing collaborative documentation across the Internet (wiki), CMSs perform many functions. CMS packages can generally be classified into two categories: Enterprise CMSs and Web CMSs.

13.1.1. Enterprise CMSs

These high-powered software packages are usually comprehensive solutions, delivering effective content management for use on an enterprise, or corporate level. They are designed to help a corporation become more efficient and cost-effective, and increase accuracy and functionality, while decreasing human error and customer response times.

They can integrate corporate functions such as shipping and delivery systems, invoicing, employee and human resource issues, customer relations, and document management and transactional (sales) systems. Enterprise CMSs bring data management down to the user level so many users can add their individual piece to a very large integrated pie. Software companies deploying these complex systems pride themselves on offering highly customized company-wide solutions, and the software usually comes with a relatively hefty price tag.

13.1.2. Web CMS/Portals

Web CMS packages are mostly created for use on the web. They can incorporate numerous functions, or have one specific function they are centered around. They allow users to update portions of a common Web site or collaborate ...