SimpleCMS: The Most Simple CMS You Will Ever Use

SimpleCMS is probably the most simple CMS you will ever use. As with other cloud-based CMS systems (CushyCMS and Pagelime) you need to add specific class names to areas you would like to be able to edit. The difference with SimpleCMS, however, is that the system actually lets you define these areas by either manually adding the code or literally clicking around the page on the areas. They claim it's the first in the world to offer this and we haven't seen it anywhere else so we'd be inclined to agree with them.

The Pros of SimpleCMS

1) Ultimate Simplicity

The advantages are definitely the simplicity (it had to be really!) in being able to convert a static HTML site into a fully content-editable site within literally minutes. This is a big bonus for creatives who just need something quick and simple for smaller sites.

2) Easy Brandable

It's very brandable too, as well as being quick to do so. We managed to brand a Webmaster Format version of the system in less than a minute by uploading our logo, changing the colors with the convenient hue slider, and choosing a sub-domain of Updating.net (they also offer a CNAME option).

3) On-page Editing

Another positive of SimpleCMS is the on-page editing feature for clients of designers. There's no back-end to confuse them. All content is edited right there on the page as they see it.

4) Low Price

The last thing is the price: at just $7/month they definitely offer excellent value for money.

The cons of SimpleCMS

1) Ultimate Simplicity, Again

It can be a little too simple - for those wanting to offer clients with larger sites the ability to edit their content, then SimpleCMS is probably not for you. Big sites and a little more advanced functionalities should use a system more suited to managing larger sites, such as Drupal or Joomla.

2) Doesn't Sit On YOUR Server

The thing doesn't actually sit on your server, so you're tied into the monthly fee (albeit a low one) - this is the nature of many light content management systems, so they're not alone here.

Update: We've just heard that they plan to launch a downloadable version of SimpleCMS in the near future.

3) Very Expensive Phone Support

They don't offer telephone support with their Professional account - users must pay a whopping $70/month (!) for a Business account with 24/7 telephone customer support. Stick to the $7/month and use the forum instead we say.

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