Articles - Page 80

Bland Brands Beware: Optimizely’s New Identity Brings Human Creativity to its Agentic AI and AEO Ambitions

matt-garrepy

It is with great pleasure that I announce the winner of the 2016 CMS Critic Award for Best Open Source CMS. This year, we had over 20k votes cast in the awards and the winner that rose to the surface was none other than <a href="https://getgrav.org/" target="_blank">Grav CMS</a>.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/best_open_source_cms.png" />
Grav is a modern flat file CMS that has rocketed to popularity over the last few years. Congratulations to the team at Grav, we wish them all the best and hope this win helps garner them some extra visibility and new users to their platform. Click their logo below to check them out:
<a href="https://getgrav.org/" target="_blank"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/grav-logo.jpg" /></a>

The Winner of Best Open Source CMS for 2016 is Grav

mike-johnston

At CMS Critic, we're always working hard to bring you the best content management systems so you can make educated choices for your next project.Our <a href="/products">CMS directory</a> is growing all the time, our CMS reviews are plentiful, and there's always CMS news on our homepage.But how about something to complement your chosen platform?<h2>20 Free or Inexpensive Tools to Complement Your CMS</h2><a target="_blank" href="https://ebook.www.cmscritic.com/"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/untitled277x0-is.jpg" /></a>CMS Critic's very first eBook is here, and it's totally free to download over at ebook.www.cmscritic.com.The eBook covers a range of tools to help with; landing pages, form building, eCommerce, blogging, social media management, and much more. Go ahead and grab it for yourself.Got comments, feedback, or some more useful tools to share? Get at us in the comments below, or head over to the CMS forum.

CMS Critic's Free eBook: 20 Free or Inexpensive Tools to Complement Your CMS

SocialEngine has taken 2015 by the scruff of the neck so far, and it continues to do so by unveiling the roadmap for SocialEngine PHP 4.9.0.<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sephp-4_9-crop.png" />In recent months, <a href="/socialengine-cloud-gets-responsive-themes-roadmap/">responsive themes have been rolled out for SocialEngine Cloud</a>, while <a href="/socialengine-php-version-4-8-9-released/">areas around importing and API have been enhanced</a>. I always like to point out progress when I see it, and it's clear to see that SocialEngine are upping their game. Good on them.Here's a closer look at what users can expect from SocialEngine PHP 4.9.0 upon release.<h2>Activity Feed Improvements</h2>SocialEngine are introducing iframely to help improve their Activity Feeds.It's a simple API that embeds content into user's feeds, making it easy to display content in an engaging way just by scraping a web link. SocialEngine will be hosting an iframely API for free (for valid SE licenses), but users will also have the option to go directly through iframely, or even to self-host using the open source version.Furhtermore, SocialEngine users will also be getting the power to upload multiple photos in the “Post Something” section, allowing community members to share moments and photos more efficiently.The ability to edit published statuses is another feature on the way. But wait, there's more. A lot more.<h2>A New Default Responsive Theme</h2>After the release of SocialEngine PHP 4.9.0, the default theme will be brand new, and able to adapt to any screen size.It will be compatible with all core modules and will ensure an excellent browsing experience for everyone. Admins will also be able to customize the theme’s color to provide for individuality and creativity.<h2>SEO-friendly Content URLs with Slugs</h2>The team at SocialEngine have also turned their attention towards making their platform more SEO-friendly.To do that, they're implementing SEO-friendly URLs with Slugs, replacing their current URL structure of numbers instead of set keywords.<h2>reCAPTCHA On The Way</h2>Yes, that’s what Google calls its new reCAPTCHA. We’re going to provide you with this experience soon by upgrading to Google’s new reCAPTCHA v2.0 (#153).Further improvements SocialEngine are aiming with version 4.9.0 include:<ul><li>Ordering feeds based on popularity</li><li>Ajax-based status posting</li><li>New Activity Feed Items for likes on content</li><li>Sort Past Events in Reverse Chronological Order</li><li>Options to disable YouTube and Vimeo Upload Options</li><li>Make video thumbnail available for selection when a video profile page url is shared</li><li>Animated GIF support</li><li>More organized Activity Feed Settings section</li><li>Ability to change position of Updates and search bar in mini menu</li><li>New widget: Column width modifier</li><li>New widget: Social Sharing buttons</li><li>Ability to set different titles of multiple HTML Blocks placed on a page</li><li>Better Social Login buttons on Login/signup page</li><li>Improvements in pagination</li></ul>Comments from users regarding this roadmap have been positive. And rightly so, considering the sheer size of this pending release.To find out more about SocialEngine 4.9, <a target="_blank" href="http://blog.socialengine.com/2015/07/09/introducing-the-se-php-4-9-0-roadmap/">check out the official blog announcement of the version's roadmap</a>.

SocialEngine PHP 4.9.0 Roadmap Revealed

It is with great pleasure that I announce the winner of the 2016 CMS Critic Award for Best Blogging Software. This year, we had over 20k votes cast in the awards and the winner that rose to the surface was none other than <a href="https://bolt.cm/" target="_blank">Bolt CMS</a>.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/best-blogging-platform-1_300x0.png" />
Bolt is an open source Content Management Tool, which strives to be as simple and straightforward as possible. Congrats to the Bolt team on their win. Click on their logo below to check them out:
<a href="https://bolt.cm/" target="_blank"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/bolt_cms_logo400x0-is.png" /></a>

The Winner of the Best Blogging Software for 2016 is Bolt CMS

So you're building a new website. What's the first thing you do after acquiring a reliable hosting plan? Apart from visiting the <a href="/products/" target="_blank">CMS Directory</a>, of course.
Whenever I begin to create a new website (whether for myself or a client), I start by firing up some of my favorite tried and tested tools to help me construct a (hopefully perfect) website.
<img style="max-width:550px" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/imac-606765_1280550x0-is.jpg" /> 
Over the years this list has changed many times, with <a href="https://www.capterra.com/content-management-software/" target="_blank">content management systems such as WordPress</a> making the website development process a rather easy experience even for the most inexperienced web developer.
With that in mind though, let's take a look at my personal collection of tools used to build my own websites for myself and my clients, without spending too much money, but acquiring a stellar result regardless.
<h2>1. Comindware Tracker</h2>
<img title="Comindware Tracker" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/e6ccxne.png" alt="e6CcxnE.png" />
Whether it's a personal or a business website, workflow management is crucial to getting things done effectively and on time. <a href="https://www.comindware.com/tracker/" target="_blank">Comindware Tracker</a> enables the development of an effective process for creating and updating of a website.
The solution provides effective task, data and document management within a fully collaborative work environment. Here are the key points of what the Comindware Tracker can do:
<ul>
<li>Unify all communication on one platform. Enabling the entire team to effectively cooperate, in particular: Designer, Front/Back-End Developer, SEO expert, Content manager, marketing manager, tester and finally the project manager himself.</li>
<li>Keep all data (text, design, comments etc.) available in one place.</li>
<li>Eliminate e-mail confusion by keeping all communication in one environment in the context of work.</li>
<li>Full and continuous process control by the supervisors over the creation and updating of the website pages.</li>
<li>Eliminated delays in website release due to an overall more efficient and productive team.</li>
</ul>
There are very few ways of replacing this type of workflow management, and learning these tools will allow you to build more stable strategies in the future.
<h2>2. Cubender</h2>
<img title="Cubender" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/dfbum9f.jpg" alt="dfBUm9f.jpg" />
Hiring a developer to do the dirty work for you might cost you a fortune, literally. Signing up for a visual website design tool such as <a href="https://www.cubender.com/" target="_blank">Cubender</a> is going to cost you next to nothing, and give you the exact same result.
All this thanks to rapid evolvement of the Cubender <a href="https://www.cubender.com/features/" target="_blank">design a website</a> platform. Here are the key strongest points I have found from using this particular builder:
<ul>
<li>Integrated style control makes this tool a perfect choice for already established designers.</li>
<li>Beginners will find the website editor a breeze and pleasure to work with.</li>
<li>Custom templates allow to save time and get inspiration for design possibilities.</li>
<li>Core features take care of things such as search optimization, building an online store, and custom forms.</li>
</ul>
many of my client websites have been built using this exact tool, and none have complained about reliability.
<h2>3. SheerSEO</h2>
<img title="SheerSEO" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/hdkausu.jpg" alt="hdkaUsu.jpg" />
Once we've got a decent project management tool and fully working website built, we can move on to some of the more interesting and rewarding parts of being a webmaster, such as search optimization.
I have been fond of using <a href="https://www.sheerseo.com/" target="_blank">SheerSEO</a> for the past couple of years due to its easy to use interface, and a great list of features that give me the necessary insights about how well my websites are performing in organic searches. Key points:
<ul>
<li>Gather all of your SEO information in one place. SERPs, PageRank, Pages in main and supplemental index, backlinks, Twitter and Facebook mentions, social bookmarking, on page analysis and more.</li>
<li>Show your clients how your work affected their rankings. Provide them with online and offline reports, and show them how well their rankings have progressed.</li>
<li>Track your positions in search engines over time and see what works and what doesn't.</li>
</ul>
There's plenty more, but these should give you an idea of what direction this tool is going to take you. It has been invaluable to my own web optimization journey, and surely will be to yours as well.
<h2>4. MassPlanner</h2>
<img title="MassPlaner" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/o1twxfz.png" alt="o1TwXFz.png" />
Social media is too big to ignore, but because there are so many social platforms to be a part of, it can become difficult to manage them all at the same time. This is where I rely on MassPlanner to take care of this problem for me.
As you might have guessed already, it's a social media scheduling app that allows you to schedule content ahead of time, to help you save time essentially. Here are the most important features to know:
<ul>
<li>You can easily manage the date and time of when content is going to be published.</li>
<li>Easily share content from your favorite publishers through RSS feeds.</li>
<li>Integrated tools such as automatic follow, like and share are bound to increase your follower base.</li>
<li>If you have access, you can post to all your groups and pages. You can even post the same content on several groups, pages or timelines at the same time.</li>
</ul>
There simply are too many social networks to be doing all of this labor manually. MassPlanner has been an immense help in getting my social streams oriented and actively updated.
<h2>5. Brand24</h2>
<img title="Brand24" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/blikimu.png" alt="blikIMU.png" />
The one thing the above tool doesn't provide for is social media analytics, which in my personal experience have been one of the most crucial marketing tools to have. This is where I rely on <a href="https://brand24.net/" target="_blank">Brand24</a> to help me gather up all my social channels in one place and see for myself — what works, why it works, and how I can further improve it.
You might not realize it at first, but there are plenty of social media mentions that we miss because we don't have the right tools to dive deep into the social experience. Out of the countless features that Brand24 offers, here are my favorites:
<ul>
<li>You can now identify social media users with the highest influential score, allowing you to tap into their circles and perhaps find a golden opportunity. It's easier than it sounds.</li>
<li>Sentiment analysis allows you to filter mentions by their appropriate emotion: good, bad, and neutral.</li>
<li>Tap into the vast search functionality to find anything and everything about your favorite topics, keyphrases, etc,.</li>
<li>Gain advantage over your competitors by being able to finally monitor their own success on social media, and see what works the best for them. Unlimited potential with this feature.</li>
</ul>
We don't really think that we need these tools at first, but when you start looking at the features list, it starts to show just how much more competitive advantage we're able to gain over our closest competitors.
<h2>6. Lucky Orange</h2>
<img title="Lucky Orange" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/ee6n1sy.png" alt="Ee6N1sy.png" />
The last of the essential tools that I use for building the perfect website has to be <a href="https://www.luckyorange.com/" target="_blank">Lucky Orange</a>. There is no replacement in terms of understanding how your website works, than being able to see how people interact with your design choices in real-time.
Lucky Orange is an easy-to-use heatmap tool that gives you a perspective of how your users are interacting with your website at any given time, on any given page — allowing you to adjust and optimize the site for everyone all at the same time. Here's what to expect:
<ul>
<li>Form analytics allows you to monitor the key metrics for your forms — the conversion rates, the abandonment rates, and the ability to review live recordings to see why exactly a form didn't go till the end.</li>
<li>Real-time analytics of what is going on your site at any given time. See which keywords are sending you the most traffic. (Now a defunct Google Analytics feature.)</li>
<li>Custom-built live chat software allows your visitors to interact with you directly from any page.</li>
<li>Heatmaps give you a general idea of where your users are spending their time the most on your website. Use this data to adjust design choices accordingly.</li>
</ul>
It definitely was one of those tools that I thought I didn't need until I actually started using it.
<h2>Over to You</h2>
So there you have it, a complete list of tools that can help build a website right off the bat.
Let us know in the comments about your favorite tools, or start a discussion over on the CMS forum.

6 Essential Tools For Building Your Next Website

Drupal has long been a solid CMS to use for business and today we are providing you with a list of 10 great Drupal business themes you can choose from when developing your business website.<h3>Foxin – Responsive Business Drupal 8 Theme</h3>Foxin is a modern and professional business Drupal theme with fully responsive design.The theme has its own super powerful theme control panel with lots of useful options and tools to manage your site: Block builder, customize, slider, etc. Foxin is built with Gavias Block Builder, the amazing drag and drop builder allows you build professional blocks in just a few simple clicks. In addition, with over 19 widgets integrated, building content is never easier.Features include:<ul><li>Compatible with Drupal 8.x</li><li>7 Homepages Demo</li><li>Drag &amp; Drop Block Builder</li><li>18+ widget types included by default</li><li>Custom type: Article, Portfolio, Gallery, Testimonial</li><li>Post Format: Image, Gallery, Video, Audio</li><li>Portfolio Format: Image, Gallery, Video</li><li>6 Color Schemes &amp; Unlimited color skin</li><li>Customization – customize(color, background…)</li><li>Fully responsive design</li><li>Powerful Grid system</li><li>Boxed style and Full width style</li><li>Powered by HTML5/CSS3/Bootstrap</li><li>Valid XHTML and CSS markup</li><li>Fast &amp; Friendly support</li><li>Support CSS Development</li><li>Well organized &amp; documented</li><li>And more…</li></ul>Grab it here: <a target="_blank" href="https://themeforest.net/item/foxin-responsive-business-wordpress-theme/20203550">Foxin Theme</a><h3>Consultant – Multipurpose Corporate Drupal 8 Template</h3><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/drupal_business_theme_-_2.png" />Consultant is a Drupal 8 template that can be used for meetings, consultants and much more. Well designed with a visually stunning design, Consultant offers everything you need to create a powerful and responsive Drupal 8 business website.Features include:<ul><li>Compatible with Drupal 8.2.x &amp; 8.1.x &amp; 8.0.x</li><li>Demo install and exist Drupal installation</li><li>Drag and drop layout.</li><li>4 Unique Home Layouts</li><li>Unlimited theme colors via theme settings.</li><li>Boxed &amp; wide versions</li><li>Fully Responsive with Bootstrap 3.</li><li>Over 580 icons with Font Awesome 4.</li><li>Power shortcodes.</li><li>Premium modules</li><li>Parallax supports</li><li>HTML5 / CSS3.</li><li>Video background.</li><li>RTL direction support.</li><li>Google Fonts</li><li>Sticky Menu</li><li>And many more…</li></ul>Grab it here: <a target="_blank" href="https://themeforest.net/search/consulting">Consultant theme</a><h3>The8 – Corporate, Business Drupal Commerce Theme</h3><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/drupal_business_theme_-_3.png" />The8 is a great looking theme that is suitable for a wide variety of websites. It's fresh and clean design complete with flat graphics and copious white space make it stand out. It's great for corporate/business websites, creative agencies, personal portfolios, online shops, blogs and many other business websites.Features include:<ul><li>Unique and Clean design</li><li>Unlimited color variations</li><li>Easy color management</li><li>Wide and boxed layouts</li><li>Fully responsive</li><li>Retina ready</li><li>Huge Layout Options</li><li>Multiple widgets</li><li>Simple multi-gallery</li><li>Revolution Slider included</li><li>Working (PHP) Contact Form</li><li>FontAwesome icons included</li><li>Google Fonts included</li><li>Ipad and Iphone friendly</li><li>Touch sensitive</li><li>Coded with SEO in Mind</li><li>HTML5 &amp; CSS3 Validated</li><li>Well documented code</li><li>Extensive Documentation</li><li>And much more…</li></ul>Grab it here: <a target="_blank" href="https://themeforest.net/item/the8-corporate-business-wordpress-theme/13443893?ref=pxcr">The8 Theme</a><h3>Tico – Responsive Business Drupal 8 Theme</h3><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/drupal_business_theme_-_4.png" />Tico is a modern, responsive business theme for Drupal that sports a unique look, tons of features and is a drag and drop builder to help you create the perfect looking design for your business website. With over 19 widgets integrated, building content has never been easier.Features include:<ul><li>Compatible with Drupal 8.2.x</li><li>5 Homepages Demo</li><li>Drag &amp; Drop Block Builder</li><li>25+ widget types included by default</li><li>Custom type: Article, Portfolio, Gallery, Testimonial, Team</li><li>Post Format: Image, Gallery, Video, Audio</li><li>Portfolio Format: Image, Gallery, Video</li><li>6 Color Schemes &amp; Unlimited color skin</li><li>Fully responsive design</li><li>Powerful Grid system</li><li>Boxed style and Full width style</li><li>Powered by HTML5/CSS3/Bootstrap</li><li>Valid XHTML and CSS markup</li><li>Fast &amp; Friendly support1224</li><li>Support CSS Development</li><li>Well organized &amp; documented</li></ul>Grab it here: <a target="_blank" href="https://themeforest.net/item/tico-responsive-business-drupal-8-theme/17424736">Tico Theme</a><h3>Highstand – Responsive MultiPurpose Drupal Theme</h3><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/drupal_business_theme_-_5.jpg" />Highstand is a responsive Drupal theme / CSS3 simple, clean and professional theme. It comes with Pages, Awesome Slideshows and Color Variations. It is easy-to-customize and offers a fully featured design. This theme suitable for Company, Business, Blog and Portfolio websites.Features include:<ul><li>30 Different Home Pages</li><li>4 Different Single Pages</li><li>3 Different Left Menus</li><li>3 Different Right Menus</li><li>30 Different Header Styles</li><li>10 Different Footer Styles</li><li>Tons of Features and Elements</li><li>Responsive HTML5 and CSS3 Template</li><li>Responsive Design</li></ul>Grab it here: <a target="_blank" href="https://themeforest.net/item/highstand-responsive-multipurpose-wordpress-theme/15578570?ref=Datasata">Highstand Theme</a>

5 Great Drupal Business Themes

Weglot - The easiest way to translate a website

The easiest way to translate a website

#18164c

DoceboLMS 4.0.2, open source e-learning platform written in PHP and MYSQL, is online, scope of this release is to integrate new web training scenario like social training and third party applications interfacement.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/screen-shot-2010-11-28-at-8_30_08-am-580x360.png" alt="Docebo" />
Features like support for learning simulators (serious games and intractive games), informal training , social learning (system is now interfaced with Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter e Google) and improved reporting system are the focus of this release.
They have also activated more community tools like online lessons, completely rewritten new manual and new website.
You can find all at <a href="http://www.docebo.org">http://www.docebo.org</a>

DoceboLMS 4.0 open source E-Learning platform unveiled

Content editing has never been easier. Veolay is one of the easiest online content editors out there that gives you the freedom to update content on the design itself. Veolay has been developed with Designer, Developer and Client in mind, stacking up a variety of features that will definitely drop some jaws! <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/veolay_editor_large-580x422.jpg" /> Veolay comes with additional features that any designer or developer would want :
<ul>
<li>Automated Backups</li>
<li>File Version Controller</li>
<li>White Labeling Tools to add your or your client's own branding</li>
<li>User Management</li>
<li>File Manager</li>
<li>Easy to use ‘on design' content updater.</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://veolay.com">http://veolay.com</a>

Veolay – The next generation Light CMS – Content Editor

Ektron has put out a solid whitepaper that's worth a read if you are looking for a content management system.
It's aptly named “The Essential Guide to Selecting Your Web Content Management Solution” and is available for free download (link below).
<img style="max-width:200px" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/w_ektr15c4.gif" />
Some of the topics covered include:
<ul>
<li>The key features to compare for a WCMS</li>
<li>Which WCM Solution will deliver the best visitor experience</li>
<li>How to select the right solution for your business needs</li>
</ul>
Even though this is written by a vendor, there's a ton of great content in it and if you are looking for some tips and advice, I recommend giving it a read. The whitepaper itself is free, you simply need to fill out a quick form to get the download.
You can grab the whitepaper here: <a href="https://www.tradepub.com/form/the-essential-guide-to-selecting-your-web-content-management-solution/w_aaaa3149/prgm.cgi?sr=adv&amp;_t=adv:Ektron,%20Inc.">The Essential Guide to Selecting Your Web Content Management Solution</a>

The Essential Guide to Selecting Your Web Content Management Solution

DesignModo's latest product comes in the form of Startup Design Framework, otherwise known as <a href="http://designmodo.com/startup/?u=1182" target="_blank"> Startup Framework </a> .
Based on Bootstrap3, Startup Framework makes use of a block model system, aimed to give developers and designers the freedom to use over 100 customizable content blocks in different combinations, creating unique websites in the process.
The platform's intended purpose – as quoted from the <a href="http://designmodo.com/?u=1182" target="_blank"> DesignModo </a>  website – is simple:
<blockquote>
“We have created a new product that will help designers, developers and companies create websites for their startups quickly and easily.”
</blockquote>
Now, it's my turn to figure out whether Startup Framework succeeds of fails at serving that purpose.
To kick things off, take a look at the Startup Framework introductory video below.
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/81676731?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Initial Thoughts</h2>
DesignModo's intention to please designers, developers and companies struck me as interesting. After all, those are three diverse groups, each with different needs and wants.
Nonetheless, my first impressions were good. Their website was sleek and modern, and was giving me plenty of information about how Startup Framework functions.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-1700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" />
As previously mentioned, Startup Framework provides uses with over 100 content blocks that can be customized to no end by anybody handy with HTML and CSS. You can mix and match the blocks as you see fit, building a website along the way.
Now, this isn't a particularly new way of building websites. One-page sites have been around for a while, and the block-model isn't something unique to the Startup framework.
However, Startup Framework also pushes the beauty of its product right from the start, and rightly so. In fact, just a brief look at the DesignModo website will tell you that they're big on presentation, and that's always a good sign.  
 <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/2700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> Not to mention, being responsive and retina ready out of the box makes Startup Framework a platform which is in line with how Internet users are experiencing websites today. And that's important.
<h2>Getting Started</h2>
After I signed up with DesignModo and, I made my way to my account to find the downloadable Startup Framework zip file – which the DesignModo team generously gave me access to for the sake of this review.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-2700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" />
The file is split into two main sections; the “Developer” folder, and the “Designer” folder. Each contain different file types and components to help both developers and designers build websites quickly.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-6.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> Naturally, both folders are filled with useful files including multitudes of images, icons, and plenty of code to go along with it. Instead of taking you through every single file, let's take a look at the meat of what you'll generally need to kick start a Startup Framework project.
<h3>Flat UI &amp; Other Componenets</h3>
Weighing in at over 500MB, the zip file that houses Startup Framework is reasonably hefty. 
 Within the Startup Framework, DesignModo have included all their files from their <a href="http://designmodo.com/flat-free/" target="_blank"> Flat UI Free package </a> . This includes user interface elements such as buttons, menus, alerts, forms, and tables, all of which have been designed with Flat UI (or Flat Design) in mind. 
 <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/1700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> Startup Framework is filled to the brim with such CSS and LESS files, most of which relate to the 100 blocks used to quickly build websites. 
 These blocks fall into nine different categories:
<ul>
<li> Header Blocks: The first block visitors will see, typically contains logo area and menu navigation.</li>
<li> Content 1: Standard content area for text, images, banners, buttons, and icons.</li>
<li> Content 2: Another content area which includes videos, signup forms, grids, and sliders.</li>
<li> Footer: The last block on the page, typically for contact information. Can include maps, links, banners, and signup forms.</li>
<li> Projects: Ideal for displaying portfolio items and other images.</li>
<li> Price Tables: Varied pricing table options.</li>
<li> Blog: Varied layouts of blog posts and other blog features.</li>
<li> Crew: Meant for a “meet the team” section, including photos, bio and social links.</li>
<li> Contact: Varied layouts to show contact details with options forms and maps.</li>
</ul>
Now, if you want to rely entirely on your coding skills to get your Startup Framework project going, then the tools are certainly there.
On the other hand, if starting from scratch doesn't sound too appealing, there is an alternative way to give a Startup Framework project life.
<h3>Generator</h3>
At first glance, it appears that the Startup Framework is for code junkies alone. However, <a href="http://designmodo.com/generator/" target="_blank"> Generator </a>  provides a helping hand for those who don't know their header tags from their footer tags.
Generator is a drag-and-drop tool which contains all of Startup Framework's 100 ready-to-use building blocks. 
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/4700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> You can build website mockups using the drag-and-drop system by grabbing them from the sidebar, dropping them into place, before shuffling them around and deleting the blocks you don't like. 
 Generator is super easy to use, and is perfect for thinking up design ideas. 
 <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/2-1700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> More importantly though, it's also an awesome collaboration tool. 
 At the bottom of Generator, you'll notice a “Share” Project” button. Pressing this gives you a permalink which you can send to clients and other members of your team. There are even social sharing links available. 
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/5.png" alt="Startup Framework" />
However, the biggest advantage of using Generator, is the export function. Right next to the “Share Project” button, you'll see “Export as HTML/CSS”. 
 <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/6.png" alt="Startup Framework" />
That's right. 
 Any mock up you build using the drag-and-drop interface can be quickly exported, ready to be customized and built upon if necessary. Now that's awesome. 
 Essentially, this means that Generator isn't just a neat design idea tool – it's also a genuinely easy way to start actual projects from scratch. 
 Now, as impressed as I am with Generator, the more I experimented with it, the more I wanted more from it. And more importantly, the more I felt that less tech-savvy users (like clients for example) would want more from it.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/3700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" />
Sure, it’s an extremely useful tool for getting started with a project, giving you the foundations of a website to export before you dig into the code for yourself.
However, I’m sure that some of those “companies” DesignModo want to help out will consist of people who want to do more than just drag-and-drop blocks into place. They will want a little more creative license, especially if they're relying on somebody else for their coding skills.
For example, simply giving the user a colour selector and perhaps even an inline text editor would really help bring less-technical users into the fray a little more. 
<h3>Putting it Together</h3>
With help from Generator, a small amount of coding, and perhaps less than half-an-hour from start to finish, I was able to construct a admittedly rough one-page website that had all the nuts and bolts in place, ready to be tweaked to perfection.  
 <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/cmsstartup700x0.png" alt="CMS Critic Startup Framework" />
Notice I said only a small amount of coding. 
 Thanks to Startup Framework's excellent block model, which comesfurnished with over 100 brilliantly designed blocks, you don't actually need to do much coding to make it look professional and personal. Sure, the above website is far from perfect – but for half an hours work? It's great. If I do say so myself.
<h2>Templates &amp; Design</h2>
DesignModo give away 25 free “Samples” with every copy of Startup Framework. Well, they call them samples, but they're really templates.  
 <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/1-1700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> Each template is unique, boasting diferent colour palattes, parallax effects, sliders, block configurations and so forth. They're all neatly presented in their very own folder inside Startup Framework, allowing you to quickly browse through them. 
 If you're looking to get a project started super fast – or you're simply not that confident starting from scratch, then choosing a template to use as a foundation will really help you out. It's also a great way to think up ideas to throw together on Generator. 
 <img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/2-2700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> In fact, the bundled templates are a pretty decent alternative to using Generator as a starting point altogether. After all, Generator is only capable of dragging blocks into place, leaving the heavier work to you and your coding skills. However, by using a template to kick start a project will give you plenty of extra visual effects, text areas, images and so forth right out of the box.  
For me, the 25 samples/templates all look stunning, and will be a welcome inspiration source for code-junkies, and a much needed foundation for code-junkie-wannabes. 
<h2>Add Ons &amp; Extras</h2>
The  <a href="http://designmodo.com/?u=1182" target="_blank"> DesignModo Shop </a>  hosts a small number of digital goodies to help enhance the already sleek look of the Startup Frameworks building blocks.
Aside from the Startup Framework itself, the shop is home to; Flat UI Pro, Square UI and The Bricks UI Bundle Pack.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/shop700x0.png" alt="Startup Framework" />
All of these products are collections of PSD files which come ready to implement into your Startup Frame work website.
Just like with Startup Framework, the focus of the store is on Flat UI, otherwise known as Flat Design. The collections consist of buttons, forms, menus, sliders and so on, all tastefully designed in way which is modern, minimalist and, well, flat.
Pricing is fair, and each package would compliment what you already get with Startup Framework nicely
<h2>Getting Help</h2>
The support system DesignModo offer for Startup Framework isn't bad, but it isn't great either.
Extensive documentation can be found within Startup Framework itself, but the most useful type of help offered is through <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLOJhs8F2y2iYthajewsE3w"> DesignModo’s YouTube page </a> , where over 40 tutorial videos are located.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/tutorial.png" alt="Startup Framework" />
There is also a <a href="http://designmodo.com/tutorials/" target="_blank"> tutorial section on the DesignModo website </a> , which in fairness is laden with a range of walk-throughs relating to HTML, CSS, LESS and so forth. However, it isn't organised very well, nor is there a search function. So, if you're looking for something specific, be prepared to trawl through every page.
What seems to be missing though, is a community.
With over <a href="https://twitter.com/designmodo" target="_blank"> 225,000 Twitter followers </a>  and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/designmodo" target="_blank"> 115,000 likes on Facebook </a> , it’s a pity that DesignModo haven’t yet set up an online community related to Startup Framework. Not to mention, the Startup Framework website itself is full of comments, the vast majority of which are from users and potential users asking questions. 
 Not only would a community of some kind be a way of delivering help and support, but users of Startup Framework would be able to support each other, too.
<h2>Pricing</h2>
To download the Startup Framework, you will need to pay a fee of $249. However, this fee only suffices for one license. Further licences must be purchased for a fee of $149.
That means that you will need to pay an additional $149 for every additional project you want to build using the Startup Framework. For me, that's a little steep if web development is your profession, and you aim to use Startup Framework as your primary framework.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/price.png" alt="Startup Framework" /> Furthermore, there are plenty of extremely popular and completely free frameworks on the market which many will argue rival Startup Framework. Such solutions include Brick by Mozilla and <a href="http://semantic-ui.com/"> Semantic UI </a> .
On the other hand, Startup Framework comes bundled with a very large range of ready-to-go blocks, 25 pre-designed templates and Generator to boot. Hardly daylight robbery. 
 So, you get what you pay for, but perhaps DesignModo should consider reforming their re-licensing fee.
<h2>The Verdict</h2>
DesignModo's Startup Framework provides a beautiful foundation for one-page websites. It gives you the palette, the brush and the canvas, giving you the power to create a responsive, retina ready masterpiece.
Every single one of the 100 pre-designed content blocks are sleek and professional right out of the box. With these building blocks ready to go, paired with Generator, even those with limited coding skills can construct stunning webpages.
What I loved most was DesignModo's ability to cater to designers, developers and companies – just as they promised. This range of friendliness is down to the hands-off approach of the Startup Framework. 
 It just seems to say, “Here are the ready-made content blocks, there's Generator, and over there you'll find every HTML, CSS, LESS and PSD file you'll need to change absolutely everything. Enjoy.”
It can be extremely simple, or extremely complex. It's your choice.
<h3>Pros</h3>
<ul>
<li>Over 100 beautifully designed and customizable content blocks that can be used to immediately peice together a website.</li>
<li>Lots of focus on modern &amp; flat design right out of the box and throughout addons.</li>
<li>With Bootstrap3, HTML5 and LESS, Startup Framework is technologically sound.</li>
<li>25 samples (templates) along with 14 highly professional images come free.</li>
<li>Generator opens the door to a whole new method of website development with Startup Framework. Huge potential if DesignModo keep adding to it.</li>
<li>Fully responsive and retina ready.</li>
<li>As a one-off purchase, $249 is good value for money when you look at the totality of what you get.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Cons</h3>
<ul>
<li>The help and support system could definitely be improved with FAQs, forums and perhaps a ticketing system.</li>
<li>Generator – although extremely useful – could do with some extra functionality.</li>
<li>The $249 pricetag is fair, but all additional licenses for other projects cost a further $149 each, which is steep.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Final Remarks</h2>
Although Startup Framework is geared towards startups, it isn't for newbies looking for a spoon-feeding website builder. But then again, it never claimed to be.
If you know your way around code, need a beautiful website and solid framework to work with, then I have no qualms in recommending Startup Framework. 
The framework’s focus on <a href="/strikingly-websitebuilder">strikingly</a> simple flat UI makes it a perfect fit for tech and software startups, and thanks to the bundled building blocks, UI kits and templates, there’s already a great deal of genuinely good looking groundwork waiting for you to build upon.
Generator also gives Startup Framework an exciting edge over its rivals. On its own, it’s a humble drag-and-drop block builder purely for design idea purposes, but paired with the Startup Framework, it acts as the starting point for all projects large and small.
Plus, if you ask me, if DesignModo decide to focus on adding more functionality to Generator, they could have one of the most powerful and accessible frameworks for one-page websites on the market. In fact, they may even begin to rival mainstream website builders.
Don’t just take my word for it though, try out the <a href="http://designmodo.com/startup/?u=1182" target="_blank"> Startup Framework Demo </a>  for yourself.
<a href="http://designmodo.com/?u=1182"> Buy Startup Framework </a>

Startup Framework Review

Telerik announced that they currently have 4 starter kits in development for Sitefinity 4.0.  When Sitefinity 4.0 is officially released (on January 14, 2011) these starter kits will be included with the Sitefinity Software Development Kit and will give everyone access to a wealth of resources and tools.
The starter kits currently being developed are:
<ul>
<li>Charity starter kit by Telerik</li>
<li>Education starter kit by Telerik</li>
<li>Intranet starter kit by Falafel</li>
<li>Real Estate starter kit by ProPeople</li>
</ul>
<h2>Charity</h2>
Telerik has been a long time sponsor of GiveCamp.  In the past, they have donated Sitefinity to participating charity teams, volunteered as a team and provided on-site support.  This year, during the upcoming national GiveCamp, the Telerik Sitefinity team will go even further.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/charity-1-183x300.jpg" /><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/charity-2-183x300.jpg" />
Through the charity starter kit, Sitefinity will be providing all teams with an instant full-featured charity web site.  This will include donation forms, PayPal integration, social media widgets, volunteer opportunities, event scheduling and more.
<h2>Education</h2>
Telerik International University (TIU) website was included in the Sitefinity installation and was shown to thousands of prospective customers.  This website is now reborn with Sitefinity 4.0.
<a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/Libraries/MetaBlogLib/Windows-Live-Writer-d94c608332b3_D0EC-TIU_4__2.sflb.ashx" target="_blank"> </a>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/education-1-300x251.jpg" />
This starter kit will demonstrate how far you can go with Sitefinity 4.0’s built-in functionality, sprinkled with a few customizations.  This website is being created by 1 developer &amp; 1 designer in 1 week.  The Education Starter Kit will stand as a testament to the productivity gains offered by 4.0.
<h2>Intranet</h2>
With the fast growth of organizations, it is sometimes hard to stay in the loop.  The Intranet application is intended to help organizations communicate and collaborate internally.
<a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/Libraries/MetaBlogLib/Windows-Live-Writer-d94c608332b3_D0EC-d_online_status_2.sflb.ashx" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/Libraries/MetaBlogLib/Windows-Live-Writer-d94c608332b3_D0EC-g_scheduler_2.sflb.ashx" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/Libraries/MetaBlogLib/Windows-Live-Writer-d94c608332b3_D0EC-h_scheduler_info_2.sflb.ashx" target="_blank"></a>
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/intranet-1-252x300.png" /><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/intranet-2-210x300.png" />
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/intranet-3-204x300.png" />
This Intranet starter kit is being created by Falafel Software and is designed to address these real-world internal challenges.  The starter kit will include solutions for scheduling, instant messaging, status (who is online), reporting, event registration, travel planning and more.
<h2>Real Estate</h2>
<a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/Libraries/MetaBlogLib/Windows-Live-Writer-d94c608332b3_D0EC-search-result-advanced-search_2.sflb.ashx" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/Libraries/MetaBlogLib/Windows-Live-Writer-d94c608332b3_D0EC-property-item_2.sflb.ashx" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/Libraries/MetaBlogLib/Windows-Live-Writer-d94c608332b3_D0EC-property-item-map-2_2.sflb.ashx" target="_blank"></a>
This starter kit will provide real estate companies with a huge head start on their project, as well as giving developers a template for adding custom features to Sitefinity.  It will include a property listing module, property search, agent directory, photo galleries, maps and more.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/real-estate-1-138x300.png" /><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/real-estate-2-190x300.png" /><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/v6-sneek-1_txsfsd.png" />
Expect more real-life development stories with Sitefinity 4.0 in the following weeks. When Sitefinity 4.0 is released all of the components used in these starter kits (templates, themes, widgets, modules, etc.) will be made available individually through the Sitefinity marketplace.
More information about Sitefinity 4.0 is avaialable at: <a href="http://www.sitefinity.com/4.0/asp-net-features.aspx" target="_blank">http://www.sitefinity.com/4.0/asp-net-features.aspx</a>
About Sitefinity
Sitefinity is a Web Content Management System that leverages the .NET 4.0 development patterns familiar to Microsoft developers. Sitefinity provides a convenient drag and drop interface for visual construction of web pages. The system is completely open with all content exposed as REST-ful services and fluent API for easy programmability. Sitefinity can be easily integrated with external web applications, CRM systems, and marketing tools to power entire web-based businesses.
The developer tools included with Sitefinity – Telerik award-winning RadControls for ASP.NET AJAX, RadControls for Silverlight together with the ready-to-use code samples and widgets further improve the developer productivity and reduce development time. With one of the largest 3rd party .NET communities with over 400,000 members, and a rich marketplace for add-ons, developers will find all the resources and guidance to create a truly engaging website that drives your business.

Sitefinity 4.0 will be Launched with 4 new Starter Kits

<a href="https://appinstitute.com/">AppInstitute</a> was founded in 2011 by CEO Ian Naylor and is now one of the largest app builders in the UK. During this time it has acquired a number of startup awards and is now making big waves in the US/Canadian market.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/appinstitute-review-1_csohse.png" alt="appinstitute review - 1" />
Known as the “Wordpress for apps”, AppInstitute is a welcome addition to the App Maker CMS. The app builder guides users with no design expertise to create their own applications via the Software-as-a-Service platform. This gives SMEs and individuals the chance to minimize business costs by keeping app development and maintenance in-house.
AppInstitute’s core value “Deliver Wow” is a bold statement for any business to make but it suggests that the company has complete confidence in its product. So the question is: “does it deliver”? Check out our review below to find out.
<h2>Getting Started</h2>
Setting up an account is a breeze and you’ll receive a friendly “Welcome” email straightaway. Once you sign up, you’ll see an option to extract your business information from your Facebook account by simply typing in your page name. Total convenience.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/appinstitute-review-2_az9kyb.png" alt="appinstitute review - 2" />
On the next screen you’ll be asked to name your app and follow these steps:
<ul>
<li>Choose a category to find the best template for your app</li>
<li>Select your industry</li>
<li>Enter your website address to create a colour scheme that works with the app.</li>
</ul>
The app builder will then bring you to the next stage of the process where you can edit your design, add content, and publish your app.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/appinstitute-review-3_h02crl.png" alt="appinstitute review - 3" />
<h2>Design</h2>
Design options are a bit limited but the available templates are good – with some better than others. Once you’ve chosen a theme you have to stick with it unless you want to start over which is a bit irritating, so it’s advisable to take some time in choosing the right one for your business from the start.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/appinstitute-review-4_dzbr3m.png" alt="appinstitute review - 4" />
<h2>Usability and Support</h2>
One of the best things about this app is the support you receive whilst navigating it. The online demo/video tutorials are great for users who aren’t at all familiar with the app building process (which likely accounts for a large portion of AppInsitute demographic) and this is important because the interface has a very cluttered look that may deter newcomers.
Once you look past that, though, the drag-and-drop builder makes it easy to edit or change various app elements and the addition or deletion of functions is also just a process of a few clicks.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/appinstitute-review-5_d83lkm.png" alt="appinstitute review - 5" />
<h2>Key Features</h2>
In addition to the app templates available, there are more than 20 modules available to add more app functionality. Some key modules include:
<ul>
<li>In-app calendar and booking system including the use of rich media for the events you create</li>
<li>eCommerce module: create your own menu and check-out features so that users can pay within the app</li>
<li>Loyalty program: coupons, stamps, and loyalty point available</li>
<li>Maps and other location-based features</li>
</ul>
Marketing resources and analytics, push notifications, and a Content Management System are also available to give you even more insight into how your customers are interacting with your app.
<h2>Languages</h2>
As the company is based in the UK, I expected at least 2 language options. However English is the only available option at the moment.
<h2>Compatibility</h2>
AppInstitute is compatible with iOS 6.0 or later on the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, and 4.0.3 upwards is required for the Android version.
<h2>Pricing</h2>
After your free trial, there are 4 subscription tiers available to suit your needs. The AppInstitute starter plan at $35 p/m is definitely affordable but it may not be enough for some companies. Things start to get a little pricey as you move up the tier ranks, but the AppBuilder Pro+ for $84 monthly is a solid middle-ground option that’s both cost-effective and feature-rich.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/appinstitute-review-6_lj8q9q.png" alt="appinstitute review - 6" />
<h2>Pros</h2>
<ul>
<li>100% free trial with no credit card required</li>
<li>Drag-drop builder and instant preview</li>
<li>Possible to hire a developer to assist with the design</li>
<li>Great online support</li>
</ul>
<h2>Cons</h2>
<ul>
<li>Limited template options</li>
<li>Once you cancel your subscription, your app is automatically unpublished from all stores</li>
<li>Can be pricey</li>
<li>Cluttered UI</li>
</ul>
<h2>Final Verdict &amp; Rating: ⅘</h2>
Overall, AppInstitute is a solid App Builder for app design newbies and the price factor isn’t a massive issue in comparison to outsourcing your app development. The busy interface means that it may take complete beginners a while to get their bearings, but the features available more than compensate for that.
If you’re a small to medium business in need of an app, I definitely recommend giving AppInstitute a try.

AppInstitute Review

CMS Summit 26

Find out at CMS Connect 26, August 4-5 in Montreal, Canada

What's ahead for CMS in the agentic era?

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<img title="Changes in the web industry" src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/webchanges.jpg" alt="Changes in the web industry" />
The web world is always changing. Always. For anyone whose livelihood is tied to the web, it's important to keep an ear to the ground to find out what's changing and how it might affect you. To save you the trouble of putting your own ear to the ground, we've done some listening ourselves. Here's the rumble on the biggest changes in the web industry. Whatever your role on the web, we suggest you take heed.

<h2>1. Responsive Design</h2>
As discussed in a previous CMS Critic article, <a href="/why-responsive-design-is-so-important/" target="_blank">responsive design</a> is huge. Right now, we're facing a sea change in the web design world bigger than anything since the Web 2.0 revolution nearly ten years ago. Sites without a responsive component are a step behind. Responsive is an integral component of any web strategy. Forsake this major trend at your own peril.
<h2>2. The Domination of Mobile</h2>
It is cliché to say anything about “the rise of mobile.” It already happened. That's old news. However, mobile domination is different from the rise of mobile. At the close of last year, CNN cited the presence of five billion mobile users on the planet. That's a huge percentage of the world's population toting mobile gadgets. It represents a gigantic demand for mobile information. The mobile monster demands the attention of designers, programmers, developers, writers, marketers, and anyone else whose life is touched by the web. (Which is, uh, everyone.) Mobile is the modus operandi for accessing the web and for doing our jobs. Like it or not, it's changing how you live your life in 2013.
<h2>3. The Demand for Instant</h2>
Due in part to our mobile addiction, we want everything now. Maybe that's why <a href="http://www.google.com/landing/now/" target="_blank">Google Now</a> is a standard fixture on all Android devices. It's more than just information —  stock tickers in website sidebars or weather widgets in our calendars. It's more than just blazing connection speeds. No, we want instant activity, instant direction, instant access, and instant everything right now. Whether you're crafting a site architecture or managing a website, think about the speed issue. How can we get even faster?
<h2>4. The Growth of Online Shopping</h2>
I'm an online shopping junkie. I even buy food online. (The fifteen-minute drive to Trader Joe's is just too much. Thanks, Amazon Prime.) The world's move to online shopping is on an upward swing. We're watching rising rates of online shoppers flock to the shopping websites across Europe and Asia, and pretty much everywhere in the developed world. More online shoppers means more online stores, bigger online stores, and heightened demand for the tightened integration of CMS, CXM, and CRM. More money is being spent online. A lot of someones are going to get a lot of money.
<h2>5. The Decline of SEO</h2>
The domination of SEO is fading. Sure, SEO is going to stick around for a while, but it will no longer have the immense clout that it once had. There are two major reasons for this; both reasons are rooted in search engine algorithms. First, search engines are becoming prescient. They know what words you're going to type in the search bar before you do. This goes beyond autocomplete. Search engines have the ability to anticipate searches based on your search history, geographical locale, demographic, and other features. Anticipated searches and user-specific results means that SEO is getting weaker by the minute. Search results are at once, far more nuanced and yet less malleable. We can't force rank shifts as easily as we once could. Second, the algorithms are adept at weeding out junk pages, content farms, spammy sites, and irrelevant information. (I'm looking at you Google Penguin.) Rankings have less value when a search engine acts more like a human than a search bot. And that's what we're dealing with now — search algorithms with humanoid complexity. Yes, SEO is declining, yet his is not the decade-old declaration that “SEO is dead!” Nobody's dead yet. SEO is just changing just like everything else in the web world. SEO is shifting in style and approach, and therefore its influence is waning.
<h2>6. The Rise of Personal Influence</h2>
Rushing in to fill this void is the rise of personal influence. We all know that Web 2.0 is an intensely personal and interactive web experience. With personal blogs aplenty, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and social media overkill, there is no longer any reason to feel like the web is an impersonal entity. The social trend is coming to maturity. Personal influence is going to matter more and more. For example, a single tweet from one individual can create a massive ripple in the Twitter pool. Likewise, the more prolific and skilled a blogger, the more you'll see his smiling mug in the search results of Google, thanks to Google+. It's less likely that a company will command your attention, and far more likely that an individual will carry that company's flag to the front lines. Personal influence is much more than just hiring managers checking out your Facebook page and LinkedIn profile. The rise of personal influence admits that the Internet is full of people writing information, people selling goods, people selling services, people sharing their lives, people uploading photos, people communicating with other people….people, people, people. Internet equals people. Therefore, it is no wonder that the web will ride on the wave of personal influence.
These trends are not just changing the web industry; they're changing the world. Although this article doesn't chase down the various ramifications of these changes, you'll probably want to do some thinking about how to respond in your own unique situation. Change is happening. We must learn to accept it, embrace it, and thrive.

Six Major Trends that Are Changing the Web Industry Right Now

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