You're facing a CMS decision dilemma with stakeholders. How do you choose the right path forward?

1 Assess Needs

Before diving into the vast CMS market, you must thoroughly understand what you need from a CMS. Engage with stakeholders to compile a comprehensive list of requirements, including content creation and management, user roles and permissions, multilingual support, and integration capabilities. This step is not about finding the perfect CMS yet, but about identifying the features that are non-negotiable and those that would be nice to have. Your goal here is to create a clear picture of the ideal CMS that will serve as a benchmark in your search.

2 Market Research

With a clear set of requirements in hand, your next step is to explore the CMS market. Look for systems that closely match your needs profile. This phase is about narrowing down the options to a manageable shortlist. As you research, pay attention to the core functionalities of each CMS and how they align with your requirements. Remember, you're looking for a solution that not only ticks most boxes on your list but also has a strong community or customer support to help you through any challenges post-implementation.

3 Demo Time

Once you have a shortlist, it's time for demonstrations. Request demos from the vendors and involve key stakeholders in these sessions. A hands-on experience will give you insights into the usability and functionality of each CMS. This is also an opportunity to ask detailed questions about features, scalability, and customization. The demo sessions will help you see beyond marketing materials and get a real feel for how each CMS could work for your organization.

4 Evaluate Costs

Cost is a critical factor in any CMS decision. You must consider not only the initial investment but also the long-term costs associated with maintenance, updates, and scalability. Some CMS platforms may have hidden costs that can surface later, such as fees for additional features or increased usage. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the total cost of ownership for each option on your shortlist. This will help you make a decision that is financially sustainable for your business.

5 Stakeholder Feedback

After conducting demos and evaluating costs, gather feedback from your stakeholders. This step is vital because it ensures that all voices are heard and considered before making the final decision. Stakeholders may have varying perspectives on what's most important in a CMS, and their input can highlight potential issues or benefits that you might not have considered. Aim for consensus, but be prepared to make tough decisions if there are conflicting opinions.

6 Make Decision

Now it's time to make your decision. With all the information and feedback at hand, weigh the pros and cons of each option against your initial requirements. Remember to consider not only the current needs but also the potential for future growth and changes in technology. The right CMS should be one that not only fits your current situation but also has the flexibility to adapt as your business evolves. Trust in the process you've followed, and choose the CMS that stands out as the best fit for your organization's unique needs.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?