What are some of the features and functionalities that you look for in a content management system (CMS)?

As you're vetting a CMS, ask for input from all departments expected to use it. A CMS that's easy for developers, for example, may not be as easy for business users. A copywriter may love it, but a marketing manager may feel like it's too much work. Collect needs and requirements from each team, aim for the middle ground, and keep talking about trade-offs. Every tool has them.

For me, a user-friendly interface is at the top of the list. No matter how many cool tools a CMS might have, if it's a pain to navigate, it's not for me or my team. I want to hop in and know where everything is – no fuss. Beyond the interface being user-friendly, features like good SEO tools, scalability, and making sure our content looks awesome on any device. While all the fancy features are nice, if it's not easy to use, what's the point, right?

Ask yourself and your team how long you’ll be needing this tool and will it be able to fire with you as your team - and content library grows! Free tools often don’t stay free once you need more features - don’t be swayed by using a free tool without making sure it can grow with you because having to switch platforms and relearn a new interface… stinks for everyone.

Delivery and optimization is crucial for EVERY stakeholder. When I work with CMS' for clients I make sure anyone and everyone who would ever have to look at it, use it or learn from it is enthusiastic in their use, trained and empowered to solve problems should they arise. I think optimization means it has to work for everyone.

Your CMS tool should allow for a wide range of media: videos, images, quotes, links, emojis, and anything else that will help translate your brand's voice, credibility, and aesthetic to the platforms of your choosing. Consider both your brand vision and your current team's needs and capabilities when choosing a CMS. Finding a CMS that offers native responsive content features can save you time and money, as well as improve your SEO optimization by strengthening your user experience.

Popularity and prevalence are also worth considering when deciding on a CMS. A popular CMS usually has a large and active community of developers and users who can provide support, feedback, and updates. A prevalent CMS has more integrations with other platforms and tools, considering that there are more APIs and plugins available. Of course, a CMS becomes popular and prevalent by meeting the aforementioned criteria, but the more popular it is, the more support it can garner and the more benefits it can offer.