Articles - Page 130

What I Mean to Say: A Practitioner Perspective on AI, Semantics, and Content Evolution

msalvatierra

<a href="https://www.weebly.com/" target="_blank">Weebly</a>, the world-famous website builder, has just made their iPad users' lives a whole lot easier.
Powering millions of websites worldwide, Weebly has built its reputation by enabling users to build good-looking websites via a drag-and-drop system, for free.
Weebly for iPad was the Weebly community's, “second most requested feature”, and it's not difficult to see why. Weebly's interface is ideal for touchscreens. This also means that Weebly is the first website builder to be completely functional on an iPad. Let's look at what it can do.
<h2>Weebly for iPad</h2>
According to the Weebly announcement:
<blockquote>“[We have brought] the drag and drop experience to life in a way you’ve never seen before with the ability to both create and edit a website on the iPad. It’s been a huge technical challenge to make every site ever created with Weebly editable on iPad.”</blockquote>
That's right. If you have a Weebly website, you can now edit it on an iPad, just as you can on a desktop, for free.
Here's a video demonstrating what Weebly for iPad is capable of.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cAuKRyuHQcc?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Below are some of the Weebly for iPad features:
<ul>
<li>New interface and design language built specifically for touchscreen. Site Selector, Element Sidebar and Image Editing flows completely overhauled for tablet experience.</li>
<li>Any website created with Weebly is editable from the iPad (stores and blogs coming soon!)</li>
<li>Element Sidebar naturally collapses and expands while you work or with a swipe, maximizing screen real estate.</li>
<li>Powerful new editing capabilities optimized for the iPad, you can now edit images and customize font color with intuitive touchscreen motions.</li>
<li>Save and sync work across devices so you can pick up where you left off on desktop or mobile.</li>
<li>Offline mode captures updates made without an internet connection. Work anywhere!</li>
<li>Manage your website’s SEO right from your iPad</li>
<li>One of the first apps built uniquely for iOS 8, leverages the new operating system to create an experience unlike anything you’ve seen before on the iPad.</li>
</ul>
On top of these features, Weebly have announced that they will also release these functions, in due time:
<ul>
<li>Create and edit blogs and stores</li>
<li>Analytics and stats</li>
<li>Android tablet app</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/8107663_orig700x0.png" />
To download the Weebly for iPad app for free, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/weebly/id511158309" target="_blank">visit the iTune store</a>. For more information, check out the <a href="http://blog.weebly.com/post/weebly-for-ipad" target="_blank">official blog announcement</a>.
Plus, explore more of <a href="/products/weebly/" target="_blank">Weebly via our CMS Directory</a>.

Weebly for iPad Goes Live

mike-johnston

Squarespace, the popular website builder, has announced the release of Squarespace 7 to the public.
Squarespace 7 features a number of significant changes including a completely redesigned interface, integration with Getty Images making over 40 million images available for just $10 each, an integration with Google Apps allowing for easy email setup under your domain, and more.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9IDeKXQuiik?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Squarespace 7 – The Interface</h2>
What's new with the interface in Squarespace 7? Quite a bit actually. The team has worked hard to make the interface cleaner and more intuitive.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/squarespace_7_interface_screenshot_11086x0.png" alt="squarespace_7_interface_screenshot_1" />
As you can see, there is a new sidebar to the left that contains quick access to all of your menus. The process of getting around on your site is much easier as a result. The bulk of the editing tools are now more easily accessible, something that makes Squarespace more competitive against other website builders such as <a href="https://www.weebly.com/">Weebly</a> and Wix for instance.
Furthermore, they've added front end editing capabilities. Simply hover over an editable area and the interface reveals itself. A quick click lets you make the necessary changes quickly and easily.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/squarespace_7_interface_screenshot_21086x0.png" alt="squarespace_7_interface_screenshot_2" />
<h2>Squarespace 7 – Getty Images Integration</h2>
For those looking for high quality images to use within your website or blog, Squarespace has also struck a deal with Getty Images giving you the ability to quickly purchase and use an image from their massive repository at a very reasonable $10 per image.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/gettyimages.jpg" alt="getting images" />
This is a great way to get beautiful imagery for your site at a fraction of the cost of typical photography websites. Sure, there are less expensive ones but having the option is always nice.
<h2>Squarespace 7 – Cover Pages</h2>
Bad news for website builders like <a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/website_builders/reviews/strikingly/" target="_blank">Strikingly</a> (which specializes in single page websites) is the new introduction of Cover Pages. Cover pages let you quickly make single page websites or simply create powerful landing pages to grab a readers attention.
Here's a great example of one:
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/squarespace_7_-_cover_pages1042x0.jpg" alt="squarespace_7_-_cover_pages" />
<h2>Google Apps Integration</h2>
For businesses like ours that integrate with Google Apps for email, documents and more, this is exciting news. Squarespace 7 can link your domain to branded email accounts, office productivity tools, cloud storage, and more via Google Apps.
<h2>Wait, there's more! </h2>
These are only some of the new features that Squarespace 7 brings to the table. To learn more and sign up for a free trial of Squarespace to try them out, <a href="http://www.squarespace.com">visit Squarespace today</a>.

Squarespace releases Squarespace 7

<a href="https://ghost.org/" target="_blank">Ghost</a>, the blogging world's newest platform, has given users custom post meta data features, and has also changed the prices charged for Ghost Pro, their hosted solution.
Released in late 2013, Ghost is still relatively young platform. It offers a simplified user interface for uses to focus on creating good blog content, and has been tipped to soon oust WordPress as the number one blogging platform on the market. 
Not long ago, along with the release of Ghost 0.5, Ghost announced that they would be <a href="/ghost-0.5-released-with-re-written-admin-ui-multi-user-support-more/" target="_blank">updating their platform on a far more regular basis</a>. The introduction of custom post meta data features and a rethink on pricing for Ghost Pro are two such updates, coming in quick succession.
<h2>Custom Post Meta Data</h2>
Ghost users can now add a custom meta title and description to all their posts and pages within Ghost. Naturally, this means a higher level of control over your search engine optimization management for individual posts and pages.
The GIF below shows you how it's done.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/meta.gif" /> Search engine optimization is on every blogger's mind, so Ghost users will definitely be glad to see this feature now up and running. You can find out more about this feature <a href="http://blog.ghost.org/post-meta/" target="_blank">right here</a>.
<h2>Ghost Pro Pricing</h2>
Furthermore, Ghost have had a rethink regarding their price plans for Ghost Pro, their premium, hosted service.
Firstly, prices have gone up slightly. Secondly, view allocations have also gone up. Thirdly, there are no more website suspensions if you go over your view allocation. 
Below are the updated plans, now starting from $10 per month. <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/pricing700x0.png" /> To find out more about how Ghost Pro pricing has changed, check out the <a href="http://blog.ghost.org/new-ghostpro-plans/" target="_blank">official blog announcement</a>. 
Also, <a href="https://ghost.org/" target="_blank">visit the Ghost website</a> to get started on your blog.

Ghost Unveils Custom Post Meta Data & Rethinks Pricing

<a href="http://hotarucms.org/" target="_blank">Hotaru CMS</a> has just released version 1.6.4, bringing about a number of core changes. 
Hotaru allows users to build social bookmarking and social media websites. With over 4,200 members, they have a decent sized and <a href="http://forums.hotarucms.org/" target="_blank">tightly-knit community</a> residing in the Hotaru forums too.
Version 1.6.4 is the latest in a flurry of updates coming after the release of Hotaru CMS 1.6.0, which went live on September 19th 2014. Here's a look into what's new, since then.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-1.png" />
<h2>All Hotaru CMS Fixes From version 1.6.0 to 1.6.4</h2>
The Hotaru CMS team has been busy in these last few weeks, releasing no less than 4 updates. Here they all are, in order.
<h3>Version 1.6.0</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fixed problems with new install that existed in beta </li>
<li>Please read ReadMe file for install and upgrade instructions</li>
</ul>
<h3>Version 1.6.1</h3>
<ul>
<li>Critical Updates for Admin – plugin management </li>
<li>Icon updates with FA</li>
</ul>
<h3>Version 1.6.2</h3>
<ul>
<li>Replaced CSRF with new code </li>
<li>Replaced PEAR Mail with PHP Mailer</li>
<li>Admin Template updates</li>
<li>Comments css updated</li>
<li>CSRF fix for post_images plugin</li>
<li>hotaru shortlink call for update post imge</li>
<li>admin styling</li>
<li>add fields for forum username/pwd in admin settings</li>
<li>auto check for plugin update stage 1</li>
</ul>
<h3>Version 1.6.3</h3>
<ul>
<li>A number of admin page fixes</li>
<li>Plugin version number updates coming direct from Forum Resources to Admin Dashboard now</li>
<li>Hotaru Version umber update also coming direct from Forum area to Dashboard</li>
</ul>
<h3>And Finally, Version 1.6.4</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fix for Pages url link for sites not using friendly urls</li>
<li>A few extra startup plugins included in this package also</li>
</ul>
To download Hotaru CMS, or if you just want to learn more about them, check out the <a href="http://hotarucms.org/" target="_blank">Hotaru CMS website</a>, or <a href="http://forums.hotarucms.org/" target="_blank">join their community</a>.

Hotaru CMS 1.6.4 Released

With the People's Choice CMS Awards coming to a close in the next 10 days or so, it's time now to announce the judges for this year's Critics' Choice CMS Awards. This is the portion of the awards that are selected by our panel of judges.
This year, we've mixed things up a bit and added a new judge to the mix. First, let's get the obvious part out of the way. Your judges this year include myself and two others. Here are the profiles of the judges.
<h3>Judge #1:</h3>
<h3><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/cmscritic_1408494048_7796x0.jpg" /></h3>
<h3>Mike Johnston Founder of CMS Critic and Co-Founder of Website Builders Critic</h3>
Mike founded CMS Critic in 2008 and has since developed it into the premier website for content management system reviews, articles and coverage. He has assisted hundreds of companies and individuals in their quest to find the perfect CMS for their needs. He is also the co-founder of the recently launched <a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com">Website Builders Critic</a> alongside CMS Critic writer, Kaya Ismail. Mike can be found traveling the globe covering web development and content management conferences, speaking at events and spreading the word about the amazing products within the industry. You can reach him at mike@www.cmscritic.com.
<h3>Judge #2:</h3>
<h3><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/cms396x0.png" />Kaya Ismail CMS Critic Writer and Co-Founder of Website Builders Critic</h3>
Kaya has been a writer with CMS Critic for a number of years and has developed a wide knowledge of the products in the industry. His passion for the world of CMS has shone through and he's helped take CMS Critic to new heights within the market. Kaya has also joined forces with Mike Johnston to co-found the newly launched, Website Builders Critic, a project aimed at furthering the resources we can make available to those in the market for a solution. Kaya can also be found writing on his personal blog, <a href="http://www.employtheinternet.com/">Employ The Internet</a> where he discusses employing the internet to expand his career in freelance writing and blogging. You can reach him at kaya@www.cmscritic.com.
<h3>Judge #3:</h3>
<h3></h3>
<h3><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/me.jpg" /></h3>
<h3>Barb Mosher Zinck Digital Content Strategist and the Founder and Editorial Director of Digital Tech Diary</h3>
For those of you who have been in the industry for a while, you know Barb. She is the former editor of CMS Wire (and also a fellow Canadian!) that has been in the industry for years. Barb has coordinated teams of writers to produce content management related articles for years and as the editor, has an in-depth knowledge of the industry. She now is a digital content strategist and the Founder and Editorial Director of <a href="http://www.digitaltechdiary.com" target="_blank">Digital Tech Diary</a>, an online resource for marketing technologists. She spends her days learning how to build better customer experiences, translating what she’s learned into actionable strategies for her clients and practical guidance for her magazine audience. As a former Application Architect, Barb is able to understand the value of technology and translate it into guidance and strategies for today’s practitioners. Residing in Nova Scotia, Canada, Barb and her husband spend most of their time in hockey arenas and dance studios with their three kids. You can reach her at barb@digitaltechdiary.com.
I am very pleased to have Barb and Kaya ias judges this year and can't wait to see what we come up with together as this year's Critics' Choice CMS Awards get under way. Stay tuned for the announcements as we begin the deliberation process.

Announcing this Year's Judges for the 2014 Critics Choice CMS Awards

For those of you who have always wondered what the difference was between Squarespace and WordPress and how they compare, check out our latest article on Website Builders Critic entitled “<a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/squarespace-vs-wordpress/">Squarespace vs WordPress</a>“.
The question of <a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/out/squarespace">Squarespace</a> vs WordPress isn't a straightforward one. 
 WordPress isn't a website builder in the same way that Squarespace is. At the same time, Squarespace isn't as flexible as WordPress, nor is it well known for building large websites like WordPress can. 
 However, WordPress rivals Squarespace in terms of being being simple and user friendly. So, when somebody wants to build a small, simple and good looking website quickly, the question of WordPress vs Squarespace can crop up. A lot.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/wordpress-or-squarespace.png" />
In the article, Kaya compares six flash points aimed to help you decide between the two.
The items he compares are as follows:
<ol>
<li>User Friendliness</li>
<li>Themes and Design</li>
<li>eCommerce</li>
<li>Blogging</li>
<li>Pricing</li>
<li>Maintenance and Support</li>
</ol>
Check out the full article here: <a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/squarespace-vs-wordpress/">Squarespace vs WordPress: The Full Comparison</a>

Squarespace vs WordPress

Today is a big day. Mike Johnston and I (the CMS Critic team) are joining forces to launch a project that we have been toiling over behind the scenes.  
 We have compiled a number of the world’s best website builders in order to review, compare and demonstrate their abilities via real and replicable examples. 
 We wanted to reach out to the less-tech savvy world of individuals and businesses looking for a professional online presence, and guide them towards not only the best products on the market, but also towards the best products for their project.  
 Introducing, <a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/" target="_blank"> Website Builders Critic</a>.
<a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/wbclogojpg.jpg" alt="Website Builders Critic" /></a>
 Along with simple and unbiased reviews, entrepreneurs and businesses alike can expect to find <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/websitebuilderscriti">video tutorials</a> for each major website builder. Such videos will illustrate how each website builder can be used to construct different website types, including blogs, online stores and business websites. 
 The best part? These reviews and video tutorials weren't written or recorded by just anybody. Both Mike and I have worked hard to craft each piece of content, guaranteeing that our knowledge of the website builder industry remains the key ingredient throughout.  
 After all, thanks to our years of work through CMS Critic, it's fair to say that we know these products inside out. We've seen what they're good at, and what they're bad at. 
At the time of launch, Website Builders Critic will have a focus on the following products:
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/website_builders/reviews/squarespace/" target="_blank"> Squarespace </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/website_builders/reviews/weebly/" target="_blank"> Weebly </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/website_builders/reviews/wix/" target="_blank"> Wix </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/website_builders/reviews/lightcms/" target="_blank"> LightCMS </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/website_builders/reviews/strikingly/" target="_blank"> Strikingly </a></li>
</ul>
All of the website builders above have been selected for their quality in terms of user friendliness, functionality and end product creation. Collectively, they serve up a range of website building options, from online stores to one-page websites. 
 So, if you want to find the best website builder for your project, you'll want to check out our demonstrations and insights into the best of the bunch. 
<a href="http://www.websitebuilderscritic.com/">Visit Website Builders Critic</a>

Introducing Website Builders Critic: Unbiased Reviews & Video Tutorials

CMS Kickoff 26

Find out at CMS Kickoff 26, January 13 - 14, St. Pete FL

What's the future of CMS in the AI era?

#ffffff

Not long after the <a href="http://www.opencart.com/index.php?route=feature/blog/info&amp;blog_id=74" target="_blank"> first beta </a>  release, OpenCart 2.0 has now been officially rolled out. 
OpenCart is a well-known free eCommerce solution which offers thousands of themes and hundreds of payment gateways. 
Version 2.0 of OpenCart comes with a responsive, Bootstrap based admin and front end, custom form fields, and even more payment gateways. Let's take a closer look.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/logo-1.png" />
<h2>Bootstrapped UI &amp; Admin Notifications</h2>
Users will be happy to hear that the user interface of OpenCart (including the front and back end) has been completely revamped. Twitter Bootstrap has been utilized, making everything look cleaner and more usable.  
 Plus, a new extension installer makes installing OpenCart extensions much easier and pleasant, as a progress bar now keeps you updated throughout installation. 
 The final major update comes in the form of a notification button on the new admin top menu. It notifies admins about product stock shortages, reviews awaiting approval, and so forth.  
 Notably though, the OpenCart team have said that:
<blockquote>
“OpenCart 1.5.6.* is still considered to be the most stable version of OpenCart available and will continue to be supported for the next six months. As OpenCart 2.0 has only just been released, many modules aren't compatible with it just yet.”
</blockquote>
So, OpenCart users may wish to hold back for a while, if their stores are heavily reliant on modules. 
 To find out more about OpenCart 2.0, as well as to download it, <a href="http://www.opencart.com/index.php?route=feature/blog/info&amp;blog_id=75" target="_blank"> check out the official announcement </a> .

OpenCart 2.0 Released

Since launching our new CMS Critic Forum last week, we've had plenty of participation and they are continuing to grow strong. Today, I thought I'd share some of the great topics we've got going that you are more than welcome to participate in.
Don't forget that everyone who participates has a chance to Win a $50 Visa Gift Card as well! We're giving away three of them.
The best part? You can enter DAILY which means you can get more than 1 entry per day by posting regularly.
Be sure to jump in and participate and don't forget, it's also a great place to start your own thread. Whether it's a question or something you are just passionate about, we welcome you to share.
<h3>Hot Topics in the Forums</h3>
<ol>
<li>The People's Choice Awards – Who did you vote for?  – Jump in and share with everyone who you voted for in the People's Choice Awards. Even better, tell us why!</li>
<li>The Internet's Best Looking Websites – Is there a website that you think deserves mention? Share with everyone who your favorites are for the Internet's Best Looking Websites and Why!</li>
<li>Platform Lock-in: Fact or Myth – Do you think platform lock-in is fact or myth? Join in and support or debunk this myth alongside our experts.</li>
<li>Share your Favorite Theme / Design – Got a fav theme or design you want to share with the world? Do so in this thread (no affiliate links please)</li>
<li>What are your Top 3 Website Builders – Share with us who your favorite website builders are and why!</li>
<li>What do you *hate* about your Favorite CMS – Got a beef about the CMS you use or your favorite? Let us know.</li>
<li>Most Improved CMS in 2014 – Who do you think has improved the most in 2014? Let us know.</li>
<li>Showcase – Get Feedback on your Site – Get feedback on your website from our experts. This is a great way to get another opinion on your design for free!</li>
</ol>
There you have it. These are the hot topics at the moment. Jump in and participate. We'll see you there!

From the Forum: Internet's Best Looking Websites & More!

PrestaShop may come with elegant default theme right out of the box, but that’s not all it offers in terms of design.
Via the <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/" target="_blank"> PrestaShop Theme Marketplace</a>, you can find thousands of free and premium PrestaShop themes. Some are created by the PrestaShop team, although most are a result of <a href="/a-closer-look-at-prestashops-global-community/"> PrestaShop’s busy community</a>.
It goes without saying that sifting through all of those themes to find one for you can be quite the task. So, I’ve compiled ten of what I consider to be the very best PrestaShop themes on offer. Here they all are.
<h2>1. Response</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-1700x0.png" /> If you’re looking for something to make your store stand out, the Response PrestaShop theme is for you.
It makes use of responsive, Retina-ready image tiles which display product images and information. You can configure colour gradients, sidebar positions and more.
Reponse also comes in three styles, with one allowing you to play a video in the background of the theme.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/neutral/8803-01-response.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO7338.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>2. Trendy</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-2700x0.png" />
The name Trendy is apt, since today’s web design trend sees many websites incorporating a one-page style design. The Trendy PrestaShop theme follows suit.
A full-width slider tops the page, followed by banners, neatly laid out featured products, more banners, a newsletter subscription are and a contact us section, which boasts a full-width map.
Of course, the Trendy theme does have other page types, all of which look excellent.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/fashion/17556-trendy-luxure-prestashop-theme.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO9493.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>3. HiTech</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-4700x0.png" />
Looking for a PrestaShop theme with some “Wow Factor”? You just found it.
HiTech is an obvious choice for merchants looking to sell tech-related goodies, and the slick design will no doubt help to refine the image of your online presence. It’s sleek, modern, and outright pretty.
The bold colours work perfectly with the full-width slider and banners, all of which are professionally presented.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/high-tech/17787-vphitech-responsive-for-prestashop-16x.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO9726.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>4. Flooring Store</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-7700x0.png" />
Don’t ignore this one because of the name. It may be perfect for flooring stores, but it’s also a pretty good fit for all other industries.
The black and white colour scheme is simple and elegant, and make the banner and sliders (which as you may now have guessed, are hallmarks of PrestaShop themes), stand out even more.
There’s a handy side-menu down the left too, which can help you showcase more of your stock. Definitely worth looking at, no matter what you’re selling.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/interior-furniture/17782-flooring-store.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO9721.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>5. Star Fashion</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-9700x0.png" /> Another visual powerhouse.
Star Fashion serves up large banners to capture the attention of shoppers, along with an elegant menu at the top of the page. Geared towards the fashion industry, the minimalist design works well.
If you have good imagery to show off, Star Fashion is definitely for you.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/fashion/17488-star-fashion-responsive-template.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO9422.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>6. Oslo</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-8700x0.png" />
Oslo has a big emphasis on visuals and general usability.
The homepage is dominated by giant banners, which, together, make up a product catalog. There’s also a slider in the middle of the page, whilst logos and menus take their place on the side bar.
It’s a unique look, and one which would suit a number of industries. Plus, it comes in two slightly different styles.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/fashion/16958-01-oslo.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO8871.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>7. Leo</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-5700x0.png" />
This PrestaShop theme is ideal for fashion and jewellery merchants.
The centered logo, large slider and neat design make it one of the most professional themes on the PrestaShop market.
It also boasts mega menus, displaying product thumbnails and standalone images and text alongside a list of pages.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/fashion/11447-leo-fashion-store-prestashop.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO7934.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>8. Gadget Shop</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-10700x0.png" />
The Gadget Shop theme is ideal for, well, gadgets.
With a snazzy, modern design, it’s a great fit for all things tech related. Yet, I wouldn’t rule it out for any other industry either. The design is neutral in that respect.
The menus can get detailed too, as the drop-down menus allow you to display pages, products, images and even videos.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/high-tech/11449-new-gadgets-shop-responsive-html5-theme-16.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO7936.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>9. Elation</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-6700x0.png" />
Sometimes, a theme can make you fall in love with it, just by scrolling down the home page. Elation is one such theme.
The full-width slider, call-to-action button, dainty fonts and beautiful use of banners, carousels and images makes Elation one of PrestaShop’s most attractive themes. It really is stunning.
Plus, with the right approach, Elation could be used in almost any industry.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/neutral/16704-elation-advance-touch-theme.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO8611.html"> Demo </a>
<h2>10. Travely</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-11700x0.png" />
Looking to dazzle? Look no further.
Travely greets visitors with a full-page slider, overlaid with a mega menu, text area, logo and cart area. It’s one of the most professional PrestaShop themes around.
As the name indicates, Travely is best suited for those selling holiday packages. However, I think all forms of service-based products can be sold using this classy theme.
<a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/en/travel/17643-travely-theme-shop-of-travel.html"> More Info </a> <a href="http://addons.prestashop.com/demo/FO9582.html"> Demo </a>
So there you have it. ten PrestaShop themes that are certainly worth your consideration – and maybe even your investment.
Have I missed out your favourite PrestaShop theme? Let me know in the comments section below.

Top 10 Beautiful PrestaShop Themes

<a href="https://www.drupal.org/node/2348025"> Drupal 8.0.0 – beta1</a> has just been released for testing and feedback.
The first beta, according to the <a href="http://www.drupal.org/" target="_blank"> Drupal</a> team, is thanks to the efforts of over 2,300 people who contributed more than 11,500 committed patches to 15 alpha releases, and especially the 234 contributors who fixed 177 “beta blocker” issues.
As one of the world's most popular CMS', this upcoming release of Drupal 8.0.0 will impact the way that millions of website owners and admins go about their duties.
Here's a look at what Drupal 8.0.0 is set to bring to the table.
<h2>A Look Inside Drupal 8.0.0</h2>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/drupal8tablet.jpg" alt="Drupal 8.0.0" />
Drupal are calling it, “the most customizable, adaptable Drupal release ever”. Here are the feature highlights:
<ul>
<li>Deploy content once and watch it display the way you want on any device.</li>
<li>Multilingual Capabilities.</li>
<li>New configuration management.</li>
<li>Effortless, WYSIWYG authoring.</li>
<li>Easily customize the front page, listing blocks, and more.</li>
<li>Better markup with HTML5.</li>
<li>Multilingual capabilities.</li>
<li>Built-in web services.</li>
<li>Fun and fast theming.</li>
<li>Strong accessibility feature.</li>
</ul>
And that's not all, either. <a href="https://www.drupal.org/drupal-8.0" target="_blank"> Click here to explore everything Drupal 8.0.o has to offer</a>.
<h2>Drupal 8.0.0 Release Date</h2>
Before the final release of Drupal 98.0.0, this first beta will be followed by a series of additional beta releases with bug fixes, performance improvements, and improved stability.
The final release of Drupal 8.0.0 will launch once there are no more <a href="https://www.drupal.org/project/issues/drupal?text=&amp;status=Open&amp;priorities=400&amp;categories=All&amp;version=8.x&amp;component=All">critical issues</a> (as of today, there are 97 remaining) and after the release of at least one <a href="https://www.drupal.org/core/release-cycle#rc">release candidate </a>  (RC) without adding any more critical issues to the list.
If you're looking for an actual Drupal 8.0.0 release date, you won't find it just yet. Here's what the Drupal team had to say about it:
<blockquote>“When will [the release of Drupal 8.0.0] be? “When it's ready.” The more people help, the faster we can find and fix bugs, and the faster 8.0.0 gets released. The faster 8.0.0 gets released, the faster we can <a href="https://www.drupal.org/node/2135189">start adding new features for Drupal 8.1.0</a>. So help out where you can, and let's deliver the best release of Drupal ever!”</blockquote>
To find out more about Drupal 8.0.0, <a href="https://www.drupal.org/drupal-8.0" target="_blank"> check out the official information page</a>. To find out more (and to download) the first beta of Drupal 8.0,0, <a href="https://www.drupal.org/drupal-8.0.0-beta1" target="_blank"> click here</a>.
Additionally, be sure to check out <a href="/products/drupal/" target="_blank"> Drupal via our CMS directory</a>.

Drupal 8.0.0: First Beta Released

The Mac versus PC debate seems to have cooled off in recent years. Gone are the days of Apple computers being viewed as specialty machines for graphic designers and tech newbies, with Windows machines being the only way to get “real” work done.
Today, most software – whether it’s for games, accounting or design – is available for both platforms. Beyond that, much of the work we do is processed and stored in the cloud without relying on the inner workings of our operating systems at all.
So, does that mean operating system is no longer a consideration when choosing a content management system?
Not so fast.
While the majority of the work you do on your website through your CMS will take place inside your browser and not on your desktop, there are still a few key considerations to account for when choosing a CMS.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/mt-operating-systems-and-cms-choice-1700x0.jpg" />
<h2>Source Code Language</h2>
Ideally, your CMS works as advertised day in and day out. In the best case scenario, you only interact with the user interface of your CMS and never have to make adjustments or go troubleshooting inside the source code of the application.
But what happens if something goes wrong? Does your team have the skillset and expertise to craft a solution?
While many content management systems offer similar functionality and features, the underlying bones can be very different. Consider Umbraco, which runs on the .NET application framework developed by Microsoft. The source language of .NET platforms is likely to be C# (as it is for Umbraco), which is a Windows language.
On the other hand, PHP-based platforms like Drupal and Joomla, along with Perl platforms like <a href="http://www.movabletype.com/" target="_blank">Movable Type</a>, are considerably easier to work with across different operating systems.
Again, on a day-to-day basis, you’ll likely be dealing with the user-facing side of your content management system, which is totally operating-system-independent. If, however, you’re doing your own work on customizing the source code of the CMS or fixing application issues, you’ll want to make sure you’re operating on a platform that’s compatible with your company’s machines.
<h2>Browser Inconsistencies</h2>
There are very few web browsers unavailable to either Mac or PC users. Regardless of your operating system, you’re free to use the likes of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera and more to surf the web and, more importantly, to make edits to content inside your CMS.
There are, however, some subtle differences between Chrome for Mac and Chrome for Windows. The same applies to Safari, Firefox and the rest of the bunch. A discerning eye will notice inconsistencies in pixel count, some font spacing issues and other CSS variables that differ between the two versions of a given browser.
These sorts of tiny hiccups, unaddressed, can completely compromise the integrity of your design and content.
The most important thing you can do is browser test your content. Using a tool like <a href="http://www.crossbrowsertesting.com/" target="_blank">Cross Browser Testing</a>, explore your content on many different browsers, operating systems and screen sizes.
To fix any discrepancies you discover, you may need to make edits directly to your CSS stylesheet such as setting default padding values or using absolute values for element height that aren’t relative to pixel spacing.
For this reason, you’ll want to adopt a CMS that makes it easy for you to make and implement stylesheet edits. Or better yet, a CMS that takes care of these cross-operating-system browser inconsistencies on its own.
In this scenario, wide adoption is a good thing. Platforms like WordPress, used by millions and millions of people across all devices and operating systems, are well equipped to handle browser inconsistencies.
<h2>Security Concerns</h2>
Wide adoption, while great for cross-platform content creation, can also have its drawbacks.
By now, we all know about the recent brute force WordPress attacks, where attackers targeted WordPress installs by trying to guess common usernames and passwords, even spreading login attempts between many machines around the globe to circumvent lock-out procedures. Some estimates show that as many as one in every six blogs on the Internet runs on WordPress – making these attacks quite frightening.
Not everyone knows, however, that Mac users were no less vulnerable to these hackers than their Windows counterparts.
For a long time, Macs have been considered to be safer, in general, from attackers and malware. But this outdated perception is beginning to do more harm than good. It’s been shown that Windows users are often more diligent about protection – both on their operating systems and their online properties. Some experts believe Mac users have been lulled into a false sense of security, and it’s leading to greater vulnerability.
It’s true that Macs have traditionally been safer than PCs – but only because they’ve been historically less targeted. That’s all changing. In 2012, a piece of malware called Flashback infected over half a million Apple machines.
To top it all off, these recent CMS attacks aren’t discriminating by operating system.
So how do you know for sure if your CMS is secure? The best way is to look for documentation. Choose a content management system that’s proactive about keeping users informed of fixes, potential threats and extra safety measures they can take.
Movable Type details the security features of its latest build <a href="https://movabletype.org/documentation/mt42/movable-type-42-and-security.html" target="_blank">here</a>, while Drupal keeps a running log of all issues as they’re resolved.
If you’re using a Mac, don’t assume that security isn’t important when choosing a CMS. Think like a Windows user and arm yourself with information to keep your data protected.
<h2>The Bottom Line</h2>
Your operating system should not be a major consideration when choosing a content management system for your organization. But it should be something you’re keenly aware of when scouting potential pitfalls and problem areas associated with your daily workflow.
As detailed above, it’s the little things – the subtle differences between Macs and PCs – that can make a world of difference, whether it’s the location of a pixel or a security loophole that puts your entire organization at risk.
Don’t get caught overlooking these critical details.

Should Your Operating System Affect CMS Choice?

Whether you consider yourself an Internet entrepreneur, a content marketer or simply somebody who makes their living off the web, you'll have likely heard of <a href="http://www.copyblogger.com/" target="_blank">CopyBlogger</a>.
The Internet marketing blog turned community has long been an authority when it comes to content that converts. Now, they have a new platform built from the ground up to convert visitors into customers, and browsers into community members. It's called the <a href="https://rainmakerplatform.com/" target="_blank">Rainmaker Platform</a>.
Although it's based off of WordPress, it isn't WordPress, nor is it a WordPress plugin or extension of any kind. It's a standalone CMS for Internet entrepreneurs.
Rainmaker offers a long list of specialised features, many of which Internet marketers will have come to know and rely on. Here they are at a glance:
<ul>
<li>Create powerful content-driven websites on your own domain.</li>
<li>Choose from 27 customizable Genesis themes &amp; additional landing page templates.</li>
<li>Build membership sites, forums and online training courses.</li>
<li>Upload, manage and sell digital products like software, ebooks, and more.</li>
<li>Built-in analytics &amp; reporting.</li>
<li>Built-in A/B Testing.</li>
<li>Training &amp; educational material included.</li>
<li>Avoid a patchwork of plugins, themes, and complicated code.</li>
<li>Cloud hosted, with upgrades, maintenance, security all taken care of.</li>
<li>Export content to WordPress at any time you choose.</li>
</ul>
Now, as a blogger with my own website, <a href="http://www.employtheinternet.com/" target="_blank">Employ the Internet</a>, Rainmaker doesn't just interest me – it suits me perfectly. A platform which makes it easy to create bespoke landing pages, build membership-driven communities, distribute eBooks, podcasts, and more? Well, that sounds awesome.
And indeed, it is pretty awesome.
But despite my admiration, I doubt I'll be migrating my blog from WordPress to Rainmaker just yet. My hands-on tinkering with the platform will explain why.
<h2>Hands-On With The Rainmaker Platform</h2>
Note: This is not a full review of the Rainmaker Platform, but rather a brief insight into some of its core features.
After quickly and easily signing up and logging in to Rainmaker, I was presented with a clean and sleek dashboard.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-3700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" />
The dashboard is populated with some nicely laid out stats, from membership signups to forum activity. It also lets you keep track of A/B testing results, and (after integrating with Google Analytics) site traffic too.
Before navigating away from the dashboard, I took the opportunity to test out some of the top menus and other options. I noticed that I had control over what displayed on my dashboard, via a WordPress-esque “Screen Options” menu.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-14700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" />
This was one of many examples of where the WordPress foundation was shining through, but if anything, this only serves to make the move easier for users coming from WordPress.
Across the top of the page, I noticed buttons allowing me to preview my site, add, edit and manage different areas and pages, as well as a help menu, which directed me to the Rainmaker knowledge base. Everything worked well, and as a regular WordPress user, I didn't feel completely alienated by the new interface.
<h2>Themes &amp; Design</h2>
Navigating to the “Design” section brings up a range of options to choose from in setting up and customizing your website. These include; Themes, Appearance, Menus, Content Areas, Slider, Dynamic Sidebars, Custom CSS, Forms, Maintenance Mode, and Social Sharing.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-4700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
Rainmaker currently has 27 Genesis themes, all of which can be customized if you know your way around CSS. They're all pre-installed, which means you only need to click “Activate” to switch between them all.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-5700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
When it comes to customization, WordPress' customization tool is used. This allows you to select and adjust Favicons, change colour schemes, background images, footer sections, content areas, page layouts and so forth.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-6700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
You can also use the “Design” section to set up sliders, apply custom CSS, and even put your site into maintenance mode.
Overall, Rainmaker's design options are solid. There may not be many themes available, but putting a personalised spin on things seems to be quite easily done.
<h2>Content Types</h2>
The most exciting part of Rainmaker is the content types it can manage and help you distribute.
Via the “Content” section, a number of different content types can be created. These include; Pages, Posts, Landing Pages, Portfolios, Podcasts, Media and Forums. Plus, this is the place where you organize categories, tags, forms and import/export content to and from WordPress.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-7700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
All types of content are created using an editor page which is highly similar to the WordPress editor page. WordPress users wont have any issues adjusting. When it comes to things like Podcasts and Portfolios, the page merely offers up additional fields below the text editor.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-8700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" />
For example, when creating a new Podcast page, you can upload the audio file, and configure things like player placement and episode duration.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-9700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
It's all rather straight forward. Far simpler than I expected it to be, actually.
<h2>Conversions &amp; Reporting</h2>
More notable features can be found in the “Conversions” section.
Here, you can set up membership pages, connect to email marketing tools like Mailchimp and Aweber, and set up your preferred payment gateway too. At the moment, the options are Stripe and PayPal.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-10700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
Further down the “Conversions” page, you will find options to create new products, begin A/B testing, view orders and configure your download manager.
The built-in A/B testing system will have many marketers up on their feet.
You can easily assign pages to be tested, by setting up one, two or three variations of the same page, to test which one converts best. You can set it to run up until a certain amount of traffic runs through, or by how many times the page is viewed.
You can also manually stop the test whenever you like, but you can't choose to end it on a particular date. Which I found strange.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-13700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" />
As far as reporting goes, Rainmaker goes into detail within the “Results” section.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-15700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
Here, you can check Google Analytics, conversion reports, A/B testing reports, affiliate reports and even form reports, which enables you to see how well your contact form is doing, for example.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-16700x0.png" alt="Rainmaker Platform" /> 
All in all, Rainmaker offers pretty much everything an Internet entrepreneur needs to accommodate his or her audience, and assess how best to move forward.
It's a simplified, refined and slightly more professional version of WordPress, with fewer moving parts, but a more robust marketing engine.
<h2>To Move, Or Not To Move</h2>
Internet Entrepreneurs everywhere (most of whom live on planet WordPress) are now asking themselves the same question. Should I move my site over to Rainmaker?
Typically, there's no straight forward answer to this question. But to help you decide, allow me to weigh up the pros and cons for you.
<h3>Why I'm Tempted to Move</h3>
Rainmaker streamlines the processes between you as an Internet marketer, and your audience.
You can focus less on plugins and coding, and more on your website's design and copy. Rainmaker gives the nitty gritty stuff a back seat, by supplying you with hosting, automatic updates, security, a dedicated support team and a knowledge base to keep your business afloat when things get tricky.
Plus, signing up to Rainmaker automatically gives you access to <a href="http://my.copyblogger.com/join-authority/" target="_blank">CopyBlogger Authority</a>, a renowned marketing education community.
I could imagine that moving from WordPress to Rainmaker would feel like moving from a modern super city to a scenic, tightly-knit village, where every resident is a marketing fiend. The removal of all that complexity will just make life easier.
However, the grass isn't always greener for everybody.
<h3>Why I'm Staying Put (For Now)</h3>
Although Rainmaker is a highly professional and functional platform, it doesn't quite negate the broad usefulness and flexibility of WordPress.
Rather ironically, a recent blog post of mine, <a href="http://www.employtheinternet.com/optimize-blog-posts/" target="_blank">7 WordPress Plugins to Optimize Blog Posts</a>, is something Rainmaker users will miss out on, and those are just the tip of the iceberg. Plugins like WooCommerce and frameworks like Thesis also go out the window. So sure, Rainmaker is simpler, but it's also more restrictive.
Rainmaker compensates with built-in SEO, Genesis themes and and its own native formatting options, but the fact of the matter is, WordPress allows for all of that and more – albeit with a little more elbow grease.
With no plugins, and only a small amount of themes on offer, Rainmaker users may even begin to see their competitors employing the exact same tactics as they are, perhaps even with similar designs. Naturally, this lack of flexibility could easily become a problem.
This, paired with a hefty price tag of $95 per month, is enough to make me sit tight. For me, and likely for many others, WordPress still does a solid job, and it allows me to continue experimenting with my online presence.
With that being said, if you know your audience is large enough, and your podcasts, eBooks and online courses are already flowing, Rainmaker is worth consideration. In fact, despite my preference to stick with WordPress for now, I certainly don't rule out a future with Rainmaker – especially if it matures and expands.

Hands-On With The Rainmaker Platform: The CMS for Internet Entrepreneurs

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