Blogs & Content Management Systems
Blogs & Content Management Systems both put you in charge of what's on your website.
What is a blog?
A blog (from web log) is a method of online publishing. Blogs are published in two channels: webpages and feeds. Feeds deliver content directly to a web browser, email address, or another website (like BlogLines or FeedBurner). With feeds, you don't have to visit the blogger's website; you don't even have to bookmark it. You add it to your feed and when the blogger makes a new post, it's delivered directly to you.
Blogging software, such as Wordpress, essentially takes care of all the heavy lifting. You write, format and edit the text, and when you're ready to publish, it sends out the feed and posts it on your website.
Blog software often serves as a content management system as well. Wordpress, for example, allows you to make Pages. These are permanent articles that won't be stored in an archive or pushed to the bottom when you post something new.
What is a Content Management System?
Content Management Systems (CMS) make it easy to edit your site. We'll take care of most global content: your logo, layout, colors, etc. A CMS allows you to change what your site says. You can edit existing pages, make new pages, and create user profiles, so you're not the only one updating the site. With some software, you can upload images and files, apply free add-ons, and send email.
Content management systems are web software. They're built into your website, and securely password protected. There is no software that needs to be installed on your computer. You can log on and make changes from anywhere. As long as you have an internet connection, your website is under your control.
