Are you thinking of developing a website?
Do you want to re-develop an outdated site?
If so, you may be considering the best tool to build your own website.
Let’s review five web tools to get you started.
WordPress
WordPress has a user-friendly interface, making it easy to learn and use. It requires little knowledge of programming languages, providing a comfortable space for those new to website building.
WordPress has a number of hosting options and over 30,000 plugins. Since it is available as open source, you can modify and distribute code with few limitations.
WordPress has a vast community of support via Stack Exchange and Codex. WordPress also offers WordCamps, locally coordinated conferences on how to use WordPress effectively. These events are open to all user levels and occur in major cities throughout Canada.
Drupal
Drupal is a developer-oriented CMS. It offers strong SEO capabilities and stability in supporting many users simultaneously. Drupal also has a large community that develop modules.
Compared to WordPress, Drupal has a steeper learning curve, which requires strong coding capabilities.
Technical help is available via Drupal Forum. As well, VANDUG (Vancouver Drupal Users Group) meet once a month to discuss Drupal-related topics. You can join the group and attend meetings at no cost.
Joomla
Joomla’s interface is user-friendly and customizable. It’s excellent for managing large amounts of articles. Joomla is open source, easy to install and comes with many add-ons and templates.
Joomla requires some programming knowledge. It is not as simple to use as WordPress, but not as challenging as Drupal.
Joomla has an active community of support through its forum. As well, Vancouver’s JoomlaTraining offers a two-day training session for Joomla, enabling you to learn how to build a Joomla website and use it effectively.
Dreamweaver
Dreamweaver is a powerful and professional software tool that creates HTML and CSS while also managing your files. Its integrated CMS support enables you to author and test tools such as WordPress, Drupal and Joomla.
Dreamweaver is no longer available as boxed software. Instead, you can choose from monthly and annual membership plans.
Dreamweaver quickly scans code to uncover errors, and provides code suggestions. It also acts as both as a WYSIWIG (What You See Is What You Get) tool and a standalone web editor, enabling you to easily view design and code simultaneously.
Dreamweaver’s interface is challenging, but there is support. Alandale Training offers Adobe Dreamweaver courses in Vancouver, and Lynda.com provides Dreamweaver video tutorials to members.
MODX
MODX is a highly customizable CMS. The tool is securely designed, averting the corruption of SQL injections. It is built for collaboration, empowering programmers and graphic designers to produce complex projects.
MODX is a challenging tool for casual users. It requires programming knowledge, similar to Joomla and Drupal.
MODX offers a community of support through its forums. You can seek further training by attending a MODX event, or reading MODX: The Official Guide. Video tutorials are also available via Modx (evo) Training.
