Essential Guide
Build a WCM architecture that supports business needs
Engaging an audience with online content has become a fast-moving target that requires new expertise. This guide includes tips on designing Web content management systems that give companies a competitive edge.
Introduction
Designing a truly effective WCM system is about much more than choosing the right tool. The overarching goal is to deliver the right content to the right audience at the right time. As the turnover of online information speeds up, building a successful WCM system requires a solid grasp of specific business goals and ongoing observation of customer experience.
When you lay out a Web content management architecture, consider the trends that are shaping the way we consume online information. The volume of content on the Web is growing at a rapid rate -- not just text, but rich media like images and video that must be managed differently. And while plenty of people still use laptops and even desktops, chances are they also want to access content through their mobile devices. The mobile trend is only gathering power, so companies need to be prepared with responsive design, and possibly a mobile-first mind-set for Web content.
All this ties into the growing importance of customer experience management as a way to create authentic relationships with website visitors and promote the company's brand. At a time when we are drowning in information on the Web, companies with a keen understanding of customers' experience with their websites and an ability to tailor Web content accordingly will have a better chance at survival.
1WCM Trends-
How WCM is changing shape
A WCM system needs to do more than deliver a single version of content to a single channel. As mobility takes hold and the implications of the Internet of Things (IoT) loom on the horizon, WCM architecture must become more flexible and scalable in order to provide a positive experience to website visitors.
As business picks up speed, WCM software can help
As the volume of online information increases and competition grows tougher, WCM systems can help deliver fresh, targeted content at a faster pace -- but not without updated business processes in place first. Continue Reading
The mobile revolution shakes up WCM strategy
Now that Web content needs to display on a variety of mobile devices, companies are enlisting Web content management systems that help tailor the user experience more effectively. Continue Reading
The pros and cons of SharePoint WCM in the cloud
Web content management with SharePoint Online may offer cost savings and ease of use, but before moving WCM to the cloud, make sure your organization can live without some key features. Continue Reading
Modernizing WCM with mobile-first Web
When you design a website, thinking about desktop-based users first could be a costly mistake. Should you shift to a mobile-first strategy? Continue Reading
Do you need DAM software?
Digital asset management (DAM) helps organize rich media like photos and videos, filling an essential function that WCM systems might lack. Continue Reading
Connecting WCM and CEM
WCM platforms are merging with customer experience management (CEM) and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, revealing just how important WCM can be in growing a business. Continue Reading
Is the IoT the next frontier in content delivery?
How can companies take advantage of the growing IoT to deliver timely service and information to customers? Continue Reading
2WCM Design-
Expert advice on architecting WCM
The most important aspect of designing a WCM system is aligning the architecture with business goals and content strategy, which typically center on getting the right information to an audience as painlessly as possible. With an understanding of your audience's needs -- such as the devices they use, their locations and languages, and the types of information they seek -- other elements start to fall into place. Then it's time to build taxonomies and tagging systems that structure content in a way that makes sense for your audience.
Going behind the scenes of an effective WCM system
To design a WCM system that works, put plenty of thought into the underlying structures that will make content easy to navigate. Continue Reading
When designing WCM, put content strategy first
A Web content migration can be a chance to revisit your company's content strategy. Continue Reading
An introduction to SharePoint 2013 WCM
SharePoint 2013 is designed to make Web content more accessible and more valuable, with features like catalogs and lists. Continue Reading
Aligning SharePoint WCM architecture with business goals
As with any Web content management system, SharePoint WCM must be designed with business goals and audience needs in mind. Continue Reading
3Buying considerations-
Tips for evaluating WCM tools
Once companies have a handle on the major trends that are driving Web content today and have outlined a WCM strategy supported by specific business goals, they might find it's time to select a new Web content management system or to add tools. Here are some final considerations companies should make before they decide to buy a WCM system.
Five things to consider before buying a WCM system
Take your time when you're deciding on a WCM system to avoid snags like hidden costs and limited scalability. Continue Reading
Understanding CMS options
Should you opt for a complete CMS platform, or should you try to fit together applications for different functions like digital asset management and marketing automation? Continue Reading
4Glossary-
Terms related to WCM architecture
Check out the definitions below to learn more about commonly used terms related to designing and architecting WCM.
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