A content management system (CMS) is a website’s backbone. It simplifies content workflows and empowers companies to maintain a dynamic, user-friendly digital presence.
The most common CMS platforms, like WordPress, Wix, and HubSpot, support many business needs. Some prioritize drag-and-drop simplicity, while others — like Drupal and Joomla — offer deeper customization.
In this article, we’ll explain what a content management system is and how they work, identify different types, and explore how integrating video through tools like Vimeo can elevate your CMS strategy.
What is a CMS platform?
CMS software is a set of online tools that allows teams to build, manage, and deliver digital content without writing code. CMS platforms serve as the engine behind websites of all sizes: They host the tools to create pages, publish blog posts, and embed videos in just a few clicks.
Most CMS platforms have a user-friendly interface that lets you focus on content creation instead of backend development. Whether you're working with a small team or managing web content at scale, a CMS simplifies day-to-day operations while helping maintain consistency across your site.
Key features of a CMS include:
- Content creation and editing: Allow writing, formatting, and updating pages or posts in real time.
- User management and permissions: Control access and editing rights based on user roles, keeping workflows organized and secure.
- SEO-friendly tools: Optimize on-page elements, URLs, and metadata to improve search engine visibility.
- Integration capabilities: Connect your CMS to e-commerce tools, analytics platforms, and video hosting solutions.
- Content delivery and publishing controls: Download new content, manage uploads, and preview changes before they go live. Learn how to download videos from Vimeo if you're managing content offline or archiving older assets.
Explore these CMS integrations with Vimeo →
Types of content management software
Here are the most common types of CMS platforms and how they manage your online content.
Traditional CMS
Traditional CMS platforms like WordPress come with built-in editors and themes that make creating and managing web content easy. These systems often support plugins or integrations that let you embed or host videos and other media directly on your site.
Headless CMS
A headless CMS decouples the back-end content repository from the front-end display, delivering content via APIs to any platform or device. This is particularly helpful for teams that need to deliver video across multiple channels, such as apps or OTT streaming platforms.
By pairing a headless CMS with a dedicated video platform like Vimeo, you can centralize content creation, maintain control over branding, and ensure high-quality playback across every digital touchpoint.
Open-source CMS
Open-source CMS platforms like Joomla or Drupal offer more control over design and functionality. With access to the source code, teams can customize functionality to support advanced video content strategies, like adding searchable video libraries, customizing player features, or building private video sections for logged-in users.
Proprietary CMS
Proprietary CMS platforms like HubSpot CRM or Adobe Experience Manager are typically sold as all-in-one solutions with customer support, hosting, and marketing tools included. These systems offer seamless integrations with third-party services, including video platforms like Vimeo.
If your content supports sales, training, or onboarding, these CMSs make combining video workflows with CRM data, automation tools, and reporting easy.
Create a professional video site →
Benefits and challenges of a CMS
Choosing the right CMS makes your workflows more efficient, allows heightened user visibility, and acts as a smoother way to manage video content across your site. However, no system is perfect — here are some benefits and challenges to using a CMS.
Benefits
- Centralized content creation and editing for many media types, including video.
- Improved SEO performance via built-in optimization features.
- Flexibility across digital channels, especially with headless CMSs.
- Scalability for teams of any size, with role-based permissions and collaboration features.
Challenges
- Some platforms require significant setup and may require technical knowledge from a content manager to configure or maintain advanced features.
- Dependence on third-party plugins can create compatibility issues.
- Inconsistent governance across large teams may impact branding and formatting.
Explore how Vimeo handles video privacy to keep your content secure.
CMS examples: 6 of the best platforms on the market
Below are some of the best CMS options available today — each platform supports unique use cases, but they all share the ability to manage content efficiently and support high-quality digital experiences. For businesses where video plays a central role, platforms that have integrations with Vimeo can add even more value:
1. WordPress
The grandaddy of CMS platforms, WordPress is known for its flexibility and a vast plugin ecosystem.
2. Wix
User-friendly templates make Wix great for small businesses.
3. HubSpot CMS
Built for marketers, HubSpot’s CMS provides advanced analytic data surrounding user behavior.
4. Drupal
Highly customizable, Drupal is robust and open-source, ideal for secure, modular experiences.
5. Contentful
This headless CMS is great for omnichannel publishing and video delivery.
6. Joomla
Joomla combines ease of use with strong SEO and video plugin support.
Choosing the right content management software: Key factors to consider
Here are some elements a strong CMS should include:
- Ease of use: A straightforward interface helps teams publish content without technical help.
- Scalability: Ensure your CMS grows with your needs, handling increased traffic and content complexity.
- SEO tools: Built-in keyword research tools, search engine optimization, and user analytics improve visibility for both video and written content.
- Third-party integrations: Your CMS should offer seamless connections with external tools for maximum user engagement. Vimeo integrates with many major CMS platforms, allowing you to embed, manage, and analyze videos without leaving your dashboard.
- Customization: Platforms like Drupal provide deep customization for branded video experiences.
Frequently asked questions
What’s a CMS assessment?
A CMS assessment reviews your current system’s alignment with your business goals. It helps teams decide whether to upgrade their current CMS plan, migrate, or optimize.
What does it mean to be CMS certified?
CMS certification typically means completing a course or exam that proves proficiency in using a CMS like WordPress or HubSpot.
What kinds of websites can you build with content management systems?
From blogs and portfolios to e-commerce stores and enterprise hubs, CMSs support a wide variety of sites. A good CMS makes it easy to create, manage, and embed content, including video.
Can a CMS help with SEO?
Yes. A well-structured content management system provides the tools to optimize on-page SEO — from editing meta titles and descriptions to generating clean URLs and improving page speed.
Optimize your content strategy and CMS workflows with Vimeo
A CMS helps your team deliver exceptional digital experiences. When paired with Vimeo, you gain powerful video publishing, hosting, and engagement tracking tools — without ever leaving your CMS dashboard. Whether you’re building on WordPress, Wix, or HubSpot, Vimeo integrations can streamline video workflows and boost on-site engagement.
Explore Vimeo’s Enterprise tools for advanced CMS integration to simplify video content management and elevate your distribution strategy.
