Articles - Page 94

Not All Heroes Wear Capes. Here's Why CMS Is Your 'Unsung Hero' in 2025

janus-boye

<a href="http://spreadsheetcrm.com/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spreadsheet CRM</a> is the latest offering from the developers over at ToutLabs.
The spreadsheet system, which was created to work in conjunction with <a href="http://www1.toutapp.com/the-greatest-sales-team-in-the-world-runs-on-toutapp-v2/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Toutapp</a>, claims it will allow users to focus on selling instead of complicated CRM software. And sure enough, when you sign up, you’ll see, “Remember: it’s just a spreadsheet”’ written on the very first page.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-19 at 16.49.46.png" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_4CdTUUoEWCx_n6N7Ie_i3-gXvpZ49l6k6QsohRxLffE-zjxezF5haCPSXEpzhLTV3xWleRnWbqHYXlj5gmFhY97WGexuY8snVNZ1UdWgXFoTWf_UTMyBBCJbfa6d-hfq6xIeVdW" />
But if it’s just a spreadsheet, what sets it apart? Is it really enough to be taken seriously as a customer relationship management system?
As a regular excel user, I was dubious.
So I signed up to Spreadsheet CRM as a beta tester (as the platform is in beta at the time of writing) and decided to try it out for myself. Read on for a breakdown of how this new CRM works and whether it’s the right choice for your business.
<h2>Signing Up</h2>
As previously mentioned, Spreadsheet CRM is still in the Beta phase, so you’ll need to request access to join. Once you’ve filled in your details (name, email address, company, title), you’ll receive a welcome email detailing the next steps.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-19 at 14.00.07.png" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/OFYX-tJCqL0vX-Ult-Z5OwZcGAORZ501c34qFGePYKiNDD8EgZGpVufgKqpylMZAwK7zMnZ8KOqNu5ZntptdXL12Tnt-bc2fShJwRxENoQZOdjwjvrzZcAKiQztxmZnEZj-_Ufcb" />
The signup page has a note advising users who need faster access to get in touch via social media – but I checked this out and Toutapp don’t seem to be the best at getting back to tweets.
My welcome email hit my inbox within a few hours though, so hopefully that’s the case for everyone who signs up.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-19 at 14.02.38.png" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/s22ixG3iw6_0pve4z1G2ynroT3FA_PiRENErv85Y3fZcypR5HLzJk7by1EfrBYZIYb-CeIS_R5OhX0i8--iboF9BnEvAfJNrJCIDqcfdJbDToG4-fOqqa64b_4DgcYpli5bDDsBs" />
In the welcome email, you’ll find a link to an instructional video and an invite to join the CRM user group on LinkedIn. I applied to join the group 3 days ago but haven’t received access yet, so I can’t really say whether it’s a good resource yet.
There are 69 members at present and it should be a good community once it gets going – so let’s hope it does.
<h2>Setting Up Your Spreadsheet</h2>
After you’ve watched the instructional video (not compulsory, but I recommend it), you can add the CRM file to your Google account and share it with your team. If you’ve used excel or Google Sheets in the past, this will all be pretty familiar territory for you.
The main difference between your own excel setup and this offering from Toutapp, is that it offers some pretty nifty time saving formulas alongside ToutApp integration.
Once you’ve added the file, you’ll see 3 tabs on the bottom of the template – dashboard, leads, and opportunities.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-19 at 12.52.53.png" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/irLuVxO_KsTnUWNI782X-iA6XYY_nQeTgCQlsU84ABV-HrL8z9sY9uzsc3WPKTTDOR0wZ_cqz-aNS99kYnmQPVTrPFPBY0N5Kf_ZwazqhSY8dpu6HYoAF6nnBi-gBNq50Dvw75SX" />
When you start adding in your contacts and companies to the leads tab, their website domains and Linkedin profiles will be autofilled for you. ToutApp claims that this is accurate 90% of the time, which makes sense considering not every email address will tally with the company website and not everyone will be on LinkedIn (although, you should be).
There are also columns for extra info such as follow ups, revenue, notes, etc. The default template allows for 100 contacts and Toutapp recommends that users with more than 100 leads should invest in a more extensive CRM system.
Moving on to the opportunities page, you can add in columns to track what stage of the sales process this lead is in – such as ‘initial contact’. The filters here are also pretty handy when it comes to managing your prospects.
Every time you update the spreadsheet, all of this information will be automatically reflected in your dashboard.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-19 at 12.52.32.png" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/tK25ukz4IS4bqY6bX-SRZDyKczDyWFynOhT204_Vtp1MBotOKedhfePcN_H8qPdRbEJJUJobpPbnqNcRby0q-OznLwJpWt7D46otJwtyKJcoIhX12GbBGFxUDY5XWOnOb7FHUtkT" />
If you’re a ToutApp user, you can insert a script which will pull all of your ToutApp data into the spreadsheet also, giving you access to recent emails and other useful information. For $30 a month, ToutApp will track and analyse your Gmail and OutLook data – so it’s worth looking into, but if it’s not essential. If you’re on a budget, you can always do this manually.
<h2>Is Spreadsheet CRM Worth A Try?</h2>
You know what? I think Spreadsheet CRM has a lot going for it.
Every sales person out there will be familiar with excel and I’d say it’s one of the most utilized lead management tools around, even when a ‘proper’ CRM system is in place.
I was in a company a few years ago who installed a great new CRM but were a bit slack on the training side of things, and as a result they had 80% of their sales team using both their own excel sheets and the CRM database to manage their contacts. Not exactly productive, right?
I think Spreadsheet CRM could be a really good stepping stone for companies who want to invest in a CRM system, but don’t have either the resources to provide adequate training or the extra money to spend.
Sure, you could put together your own spreadsheet, and like I said – lots of people do. But that’s hassle, and who needs hassle when you’re trying to make sales? Spreadsheet CRM makes customer management simple and it will save you a lot of time in the process. If you’re running a small business, I definitely suggest trying it out.
What’s your experience with SpreadSheet CRM, have you tried it out yet? Let us know in the comments below.

Spreadsheet CRM Review

grainne-logue

LightCMS has capped off their 2015 with a small range of updates.<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/lightcms.jpg" />The platform powers over 275,000 websites, and was the <a href="/the-winner-of-the-2014-peoples-choice-cms-award-for-best-cloud-cms-for-smb/">2014 People's Choice Award Winner for Best Cloud CMS for SMB</a>.This latest update brings about element CSS classes, gallery thumbnails, and a new responsive theme. Here's a closer look.<h2>Thumbnails &amp; A New Theme</h2>LightCMS' image element now includes settings that let you specify the dimensions for image thumbnails. These dimensions are set in the image element settings on the Basic tab. You can also configure aesthetic settings to do with shadows, hover effects, and much more. It's a minor addition, but it's the type of feature that helps the end result look as unique as possible.A new theme, titled “Vast”, has also been released. It's an ecommerce centric theme, and is available for use on any LightCMS website. You can use the design as is, or if you're an advanced user you can download the source files and use them as a starting point for a new custom design. It looks quite snazzy, too.<h2>Element CSS Classes</h2>Furthermore, LightCMS has unveiled a new feature for applying a CSS class to a specific element. Each element’s advanced tab now includes a custom CSS Class field.Developers and advanced users will know the value of this update right off the bat. Customization to the finer details of each LightCMS element will now be much easier to implement.These updates may be relatively small, but LightCMS is a platform that you can depend upon when it comes to regular improvement. Not a month goes by before they announce a set of new features, and I think that's worth commending.Here's hoping they keep it up throughout 2016.

LightCMS Gets Element CSS Classes, Improved Galleries & More

mike-johnston

Branded as their “biggest release in over a decade,” <a href="http://ez.no/" target="_blank">eZ Systems</a> has just unveiled new versions of both eZ Platform, their open-source product, and eZ Studio, their commercial product based on eZ Platform.
eZ software is trusted by the like of; The Financial Times, Harvard University, Elle, Hootsuite, and Orange.
<a href="http://ez.no/" target="_blank"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/ez-logo-no-tagline_max600height250.png" /></a>
Back in September, eZ Systems’ Director of Product Marketing, <a href="/ez-systems-set-to-launch-ez-platform-and-ez-studio/" target="_blank">guest posted here on CMS Critic to give us a sneak peek at both of these updates</a>. He stated that they, “[signified] a leap forward” for eZ Systems as a company.
We also recently enjoyed a featured week with eZ Systems, where I personally got to <a href="/search/?q=ez+publish&amp;sort=-date" target="_blank">explore some of the core features of the company's flagship CMS, eZ Platform</a>, including <a href="/managing-multiple-sites-channels-languages-with-ez-publish/" target="_blank">multi-site management</a> and <a href="/ez-publish-platform-content-management-marketing-ecommerce-under-the-same-roof/" target="_blank">eCommerce</a>.
Here's an overview of what's new.
<h2>Right Content, Right Channel, Right Time</h2>
<a href="http://ezplatform.com/" target="_blank">eZ Platform</a> is the open-source core for developers, while <a href="http://ezstudio.com/" target="_blank">eZ Studio</a> is the fully integrated set of tools for editors and marketers.
According to the eZ team, their aim with this broad update is to ensure that brands get the right content flows into the right channels at the right times, whether on desktops, tablets, phones or the Internet of Things (IoT).
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/ez_studio-schedulingcontent665x0-is.png" /> 
eZ’s software also allows organizations to manage multiple sites or apps from a single, secure platform, and deliver their content in different languages to engage local audiences.
<h2>eZ Platform: Content-centric Websites &amp; Applications</h2>
The core of eZ’s new solutions, eZ Platform is an open source software that provides developers a Web framework, rich APIs and a structured content repository for building websites and apps.
This update brings about a fully redesigned user interface to manage the repository. Like its predecessor eZ Platform 5.x, eZ Platform is based on the <a href="http://ez.no/Blog/Exploring-the-Symfony2-Full-Stack-Approach-of-eZ-Platform">Symfony full-stack framework</a>, the leading PHP framework today.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/ez-online_editor.png" /> 
Roland Benedetti, Chief Product and Marketing Officer at eZ, had this to say upon the announcement:
<blockquote>
“With our fully featured REST API and content repository, eZ Platform allows developers to build, extend and scale sites and apps with more ease than ever before. We welcome developers to <a href="http://ezplatform.com/">download the software</a> today and start experimenting.”
</blockquote>
<h2>eZ Studio: Content Management Simplified</h2>
eZ Studio is the commercial solution based on eZ Platform.
This premium offering now serves up additional, fully integrated features that allow editors and marketers to better manage a website or app built with eZ Platform. Those features include; in-page preview and editing, easy-to-use tools for managing complex landing pages (such as drag-and-drop blocks), automated content scheduling and customizable workflows.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/ez_studio_-_landing_page_creator614x0-is.png" /> 
According to Aleksander Farstad, eZ Systems' CEO and Co-Founder, brands making use of eZ Studio are about to experience vast improvements:
<blockquote>
“In eZ Studio, editors and marketers will see vast improvements in the user interface design and editorial tool.
This will lead to increased productivity, faster time-to-publish and a smoother editorial experience.”
</blockquote>
Both eZ Platform and eZ Studio are available as a fully integrated product through the eZ Enterprise subscription, which also provides support and maintenance services.
eZ Systems also offers <a href="http://ez.no/Products/Digital-Marketing">Cloud Services</a>, including eZ Personalization, eZ Smart Analytics and eZ Marketing Automation, which complement eZ Platform and eZ Studio.
To find out more about eZ’s content management systems, <a href="http://ez.no/Products/The-eZ-Publish-Platform" target="_blank">check out eZ Systems’ website</a>, or explore their offering <a href="/products/ibexa/" target="_blank">through our CMS Directory</a>.

eZ Launches New Content Management Solutions, eZ Platform & eZ Studio

Just days after Pligg CMS went on sale, <a target="_blank" href="http://900dpi.com/">900dpi</a>, the CMS that makes use of Dropbox to quickly launch and manage websites, is set to shut its doors for good. When <a href="/900dpi-build-websites-with-html-css-dropbox-and-nothing-else/">I first got my hands on 900dpi back in 2014</a>, I was impressed by it. It had charm, a simple interface, and plenty of wiggle room for a developer to code something brilliant. Plus, all you really needed was a dropbox account.Now, I hate being the bearer of bad news, but unfortunately, this new piece is just that. Bad news.The 900dpi team sent out an email to their subscribers yesterday, with the sad news of their impending shut down.<h2>“900dpi Cannot Meet the Rapidly Expanding Needs of the CMS Market”</h2>Apparently, its the vastly evolving CMS market that has killed 900dpi:<blockquote>“In 2013 we embarked on a great journey to create a CMS that was easy and intuitive to implement for designers and developers. We are so proud of the work that we put in, and that we were able to create a product that helps to make your lives easier.However, over the past year, we have realized that 900dpi cannot meet the rapidly expanding needs of the CMS market and its users. We have decided to close up shop on December 31st, 2015.”</blockquote>According to the email, existing 900dpi users have until that date to find a new solution for their Dropbox-driven websites. After that, their files will remain in their Dropbox folders as per usual – they just won't be live on the web anymore.As for hosting payments made for periods after December 31, 2015, 900dpi have confirmed that refunds will be going out within “the next few days”.The 900dpi team helpfully pointed users towards platforms which, only a few weeks ago, would have been competitors. <a target="_blank" href="http://cloudcannon.com/">CloudCannon</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.harp.io/">Harp</a> were among the names they listed.Like I said before, this is sad news. It's never pleasant to see a solid CMS shut its doors, but with the recent news of Pligg being sold to the highest bidder, one can only hope that we aren't seeing the start of a horrible trend.For one last look at 900dpi before it's gone forever, <a target="_blank" href="http://900dpi.com/">check out their website</a>.

900dpi Set to Shut Up Shop

Many organisations invest heavily into their CRM software and they expect a return on that investment. However, this can take some time to achieve – especially if your employees aren’t completely on board with the new process.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/image.jpg" />
If you want to see positive results from your company's CRM, then you have to ensure that it’s being properly utilized. After working with and researching numerous CRMs over the years, I’ve identified these 10 ways for your business to make the most of your CRM.
<h2>1. Make Life Easier For Your Employees</h2>
This starts before you even purchase your CRM. You have to involve your teams in the process from Day 1.
Find out what they need from a CRM and how it can make their jobs easier. No-one wants to take on the hassle of something ‘new’ when they’re already managing a hectic workload, so unless you actually show them the value of the product – they’ll be slow to adapt.
By consulting with them first and identifying their needs, your team will be much more invested in the onboarding process from the get-go.
<h2>2. Provide Sufficient Training</h2>
Following on from the point above, it’s important to have proper training in place for employees when transitioning to a new CRM.
A 10 minute lunch-time session isn’t going to cut it – you really need to invest adequate time and preparation into training so that your teams can hit the ground running.
Otherwise, your employees will have no qualms about reverting back to their own spreadsheet systems, and you’ll find yourself forking out for a CRM every month that no-one is actually using properly.
<h2>3. Start Off Slowly</h2>
It’s usually best of implement the changes slowly so that everyone has time to catch up and get on board.
A useful way to get started is by getting your sales team to start entering in all of their contacts; they can then start tracking those prospects and generating reports in a step by step process.
Once they start adding in new elements like this on a daily basis, it’ll feel less like a chore and start to become a part of their routine.
<h2>4. Involve Everyone – Not Just Your Sales Team</h2>
A lot of companies look at a CRM as a sales automation system and they forget to include other departments in the process of onboarding. It’s important to integrate your CRM with other platforms – such as your service desk – to properly manage your customer accounts.
For example, how is a customer service rep going to answer a query sufficiently if they don’t have up-to-date details on the customer’s recent interactions with the sales team?
<h2>5. Be Consistent</h2>
It’s important to have protocols in place so that your data is consistent across all channels.
For example, in what format will names and address be entered? It can be tough to get your salespeople to type in all of the required data when they’re closing a sale, so you should have a system in place that makes it easy for them to do so.
Once you’ve done this ahead of time, it will streamline your data process so that it becomes far more efficient and effective. It’s also important to have regular data ‘hygiene’ checks to ensure that all of the contact details are correct.
<h2>6. Get Social</h2>
Most CRMs will offer social media integration and it’s essential to getting the most out of your CRM software.
By integrating customer accounts with their social media profiles, you can keep track of where they post frequently and reach out to them online.
It’s also a good idea to start using a social media listening tool such as <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.google.com/url?q%3Dhttp://www.socialmention.com/%26amp;sa%3DD%26amp;usg%3DAFQjCNE71aFS_ahyRDutb7jUESZ2OChrhg&amp;sa=D&amp;ust=1450260398238000&amp;usg=AFQjCNH-UH_U16wZDglqJnhBAH9uAJC4FA">Social Mention</a>, to keep an eye out for brand mentions and react to conversations in real-time.
<h2>7. Don’t Forget About Marketing</h2>
Your CRM is a hive of customer data and this data should become an integral part of your marketing efforts, but many companies forget to actually utilize it.
Some CRMs will even allow you to automate your marketing campaigns/mailshots directly from the CRM system itself.
<h2>8. Be Mobile Friendly</h2>
A mobile friendly CRM is essential when you have reps out on the road. Your sales team need to be able to keep track of leads, opportunities, and proposals – from anywhere and at any time.
Once you have a CRM in place that can be easily accessed from any device, you’ll see a definite improvement in the effectiveness of your software.
<h2>9. Think Before You Migrate</h2>
If you’re switching CRM systems, then you have to put a streamlined process in place for transferring your data – or you’re in for a hell of a ride.
Make sure that your data can be migrated in an easy to use format, whether it’s via the standard ‘import and export via excel’ route or with the assistance of a CRM data migration tool.
<h2>10. Ask For Feedback</h2>
It’s important keep up to date with how your employees are adjusting to the new system, as it will allow you to identify and resolve any issues before they escalate.
An online survey can be a good way of keeping on top of this, or you can just keep discuss it in your monthly meetings.
<h2>Stay Ahead Of The Game</h2>
Ultimately, the best way to make the most of your CRM is to constantly stay ahead of the game.
This means keeping tabs on any issues that crop up and addressing them ASAP before the have time to fester. And by ‘fester’, I mean before they have time to irk your employees so much that they get fed up with the CRM and jump ship.
Every CRM system is different and each business will have specific needs, but your employees really are the people who are best equipped to tell you whether your chosen software is actually useful – so listen to them and you won’t go far wrong.

10 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your CRM

<a href="https://mobirise.com/" target="_blank">Mobirise</a> is an offline website builder for Windows and Mac, meaning that it needs to be downloaded to your desktop.
The drag-and-drop based website builder was born out of the Netherlands, and is designed to construct small-medium sized websites, landing pages, portfolios, and other such low-functionality websites.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/1tawul94409x0-is.png" />
It's marketed as user friendly for non-techies, minimalist, and totally free (even for commercial use).
Website builders don't need to much of an introduction. Startups, entrepreneurs and small businesses use them to kickstart their online presence, and they usually want to achieve that as quickly and as easily as possible. Oh, and without touching a line of code, too.
Let's see if Mobirise can rise to the challenge. Here's a video to get us started.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vvwnQ7NUWNY?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Initial Thoughts</h2>
The Mobirise website is clean and simple, for the most part.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-1776x0-is.png" /> Download buttons dominate the homepage, and it looks like a very inviting piece of software right off the bat. Minimalist indeed.
Yet, further down the homepage, lies an array of review quotes and testimonials. And when I say there is an array, I mean there is an array.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-2752x0-is.png" /> It's a little overkill to say the least. Not a massive deal, but clutter on the homepage of a website builder that touts simplicity isn't a convincing quality.
<h2>Getting Started</h2>
What's that? A website builder that I can't use through my web browser? Perish the thought.
But hold on just one second.
You may have to download and install Mobirise before you can use it – but believe me when I tell you that it's quicker to set up than most hosted website builders that require no downloads.
With Mobirise, you don't need to sign up or divulge any information whatsoever to begin downloading. The downloadable file is relatively small, installation is lightning fast, and there's no forms to fill out at any stage.
It went from a .zip file on my desktop to a ready-to-roll website builder in a matter of seconds. Impressive.
<h2>Page Creation</h2>
The page creation capabilities of a website builder help to define it as a platform. Unsurprisingly, Mobirise stays true to its focus on minimalism when it comes to page building.
The platform starts you off with a generic homepage, with a customization menu that can activated via an orange button at the bottom-right of the interface.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-3794x0-is.png" /> There are no standalone templates as such. Instead, you can choose from a number of different page blocks, piecing them together in a mix-and-match fashion to build a one-pager style website.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-4169x0-is.png" /> This method ensures that users stays within a pre-defined boundary when it comes to design, with just enough wiggle room to make some customizations. Such customizations include; images, videos, text, background images, background colours, show/hide elements, content aligning, and more.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-5234x0-is.png" /> I think there's a healthy balance struck here. The customization options aren't going to allow you to build anything drastically unique, but there's just enough there to help put your own stamp on your website.
As previously mentioned, this pre-defined design boundary will, in a way, push users towards creating a website that looks good, rather than leaving them to their own, (often inexperienced) devices.
In other words, if you suck as web design, you'll love Mobirise's method of website building.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-9863x0-is.png" /> I say that particularly because Mobirise's page blocks are so well put together. They include a selection of full-page sliders, information blocks, maps, forms, a pricing table, and more.
Upon hovering, each block presents three buttons in the top-right; Drag Block, Block Parameters and Delete Block.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-15.png" /> The first option allows you to drag-and-drop the block above and below other blocks, essentially rearranging your website like Lego. The Delete Block button is pretty self explanatory.
As for the Block Parameters button, this brings up those customizations I mentioned earlier, allowing you to edit the block in question. Different block types comes with different parameters, too.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-10.png" /> For example, a navigation menu block will give you the option to make the menu sticky, meaning that it will scroll down the page with the visitor; remaining visible at all times.
Further customization can be done by simply pointing and clicking on page elements. Otherwise known as inline editing. For example, clicking on a “Download” button brings up options to change the buttons color, and edit the text right there and then.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-6.png" /> To add a new page to the existing homepage, you can go to the menu on the left, “Pages”, and then “Create New Page”. further page options enable you to clone pages, edit file names, set page titles, and add meta descriptions.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-11.png" />
I feel that now is a good time to highlight the speed of Mobirise. I tinkered with all of the above settings, re-arranged page blocks and edited page elements – and it was a piece of cake. Mobirise is supremely speedy and responsive, just as a website builder should be.
<h2>Multi-Site Management &amp; Publishing</h2>
Similarly, you can add a brand new website from the same side menu, by clicking “Sites” and “Create New Site”.
Mobirise presents a grid-list of your existing sites on that same menu, allowing you to quickly switch between projects. Ideal for a developer with multple clients, one might say.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-8.png" />
The site manager section also allows you to export a website, assign a favicon, and add a Google Analytics tracking code.
When it comes to actually publishing your website, Mobirise gives you a few options.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-12.png" /> You can publish it to a local drive, upload it via FTP or use Google Drive. All three options seem to work fine, and they're solid options to make use of, too.
<h2>Apps &amp; Extras</h2>
Mobirise has a couple of extra features which help round it off.
Firstly, there's the ability to preview your website in desktop view, tablet view and smartphone view. Just to ensure all those responsive pages are looking spcik and spam.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-13195x0-is.png" /> Plus, you can preview the website in your web browser.
You can also import and export Mobirise websites, which is cool if you're looking to share your work with somebody else, or move one website between two different accounts or devices.
There are only four extensions bundled. These are; Facebook Comments, Soundcloud, Code Editor &amp; Google Analytics. However, the Code Editor is very highly priced, at $69.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/sshot-14467x0-is.png" /> Mobirise is showing its youth here I think. Four extensions is certainly nothing to write home about, and I think this should be an area of focus for the Mobirise team. I also think that charging $69 for a website builder's Code Editor is a little bit too bold. The price needs adjusting, if you ask me.
Extensions like Google Maps, Instagram photos, Disqus comments, a form builder and other standard extensions would all be welcome.
<h2>Getting Help</h2>
As far as help and support is concerned, there's not much to go on.
In fact, apart from some social media handles and an email address, there's no other way to reach out for support from official channels. There isn't even any documentation, which isn't really acceptable.
I would have expected a simple “Help” option somewhere on the website builder, or perhaps a document that comes bundled with the download. But surprisingly, there's nothing to help guide website building newbies at all.
The only saving grace is that Mobirise truly is easy to use out of the box. But still, that's no excuse.
<h2>The Verdict</h2>
Mobirise is an extremely simple website builder, and because that's exactly what it aims to be, I'm a big fan.
The level of customization that a newbie can implement is of a good level. There's limits on what can be created, which means they won't get lost in any complex menus. More experienced users can delve further into customization via the Code Editor extension (if they want to cough up the cash).
I'm also impressed with the quality of the blocks which can be dragged-and-dropped into place. They're the foundations of Mobirise, and they're brilliantly designed, with each one looking highly professional out of the box.
I have a few gripes, though. There aren't enough extensions to play with, and I feel that the page blocks could be a little more diverse. A few more different styles will provide just enough choice to ensure that users aren't constantly building similar looking websites.
Also, documentation and support need to be worked on. A user manual would be nice, and so would some FAQs on the Mobirise website.
Other than that though, Mobirise has won me over with its simplicity and speed.
<h3>Pros</h3>
<ul>
<li>Mobirise is extremely quick and easy to download and install.</li>
<li>Lego-like page blocks can be dragged-and-dropped into place, helping users construct websites that already look great.</li>
<li>All the pre-designed blocks are sleek and professional looking.</li>
<li>Customization options are pretty good, allowing for some useful modifications. An optional (yet expensive) Code Editor extension also gives experienced users complete control.</li>
<li>In-line editing plays right into the hands of inexperienced web designers. Point, Click, Edit.</li>
<li>You can upload the finished website via FTP, Google Drive or to a local server.</li>
<li>Easy to manage multiple sites.</li>
<li>Browser, Tablet and smartphone previews are easily accessible.</li>
<li>Everything is quick, responsive and bug-free. Mobirise is genuinely pleasant to use.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Cons</h3>
<ul>
<li>Not a hosted solution.</li>
<li>Not many extensions at all.</li>
<li>Documentation &amp; support options are lousy.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Final Remarks</h2>
If a website building novice asks me to point them in the direction of a totally free website builder, Mobirise will now be high on my list of recommendations. I'm that impressed.
I expected to find some bugs somewhere along the line. Perhaps an unresponsive button or a slowly reacting page element. But I found nothing of the sort. Mobirise is a dream to use.
Aside from the aforementioned documentation and support issues, the only problem I can see is that a newbie website builder will flinch at the idea of having to find a web hosting environment for his or her Mobirise website. They would much prefer a hosted solution to take care of those technicalities.
Maybe I'm being pedantic, but it seems to me that Mobirise has been built for the same people who wouldn't even know how to “Publish” their site using FTP or Google Drive.
However, if the idea of uploading and hosting your own website doesn't bother you, I'd strongly recommend giving Mobirise a whirl.
Besides, it's a free platform that takes under a minute to set up, can be used by anybody, and can be hosted anywhere. What more could you want?

Mobirise Review

Update: Pligg CMS was sold on December 16th 2015 for over $50,000.<a target="_blank" href="http://pligg.com/">Pligg</a>, the free and open source CMS that enables users build social websites similar to Reddit, is up for sale on Flippa.The domain name, all owned assets related to the platform, and the credentials to Pligg's GitHub account, are all included in the package. In other words, the eventual buyer will own everything to do with Pligg CMS, bar the third party developer-owned modules found and sold on the website.Established in 2005, Pligg has a solid reputation and a relatively large user base. It can build websites where members can submit articles, vote on them, and leave comments.In many ways, it's sad to see it being sold on – but there could be a silver lining.<h2>A CMS That Needs Saving?</h2>Sometimes, projects (no matter their size) can no longer be maintained by those who initially brought them into existence. That certainly seems to be the case with Pligg, as the owner states:<blockquote>“After operating this domain for nearly a decade, I'm ready to move on. I haven’t been able to commit much time to the website recently and I hope that the new owner will be able to revitalize the site and accompanying software product.”</blockquote>In any case, one thing is for sure. Pligg needs saving.Now, I'm not implying that Pligg is a damaged product by any means. It's currently offered as a “one click install” option from many popular web hosts, and is still used by thousands of web developers to build social websites.The owner admits a decrease in website traffic and sales over the past year, but has attributed that to a lack of recent updates.However, if a buyer cannot be found, Pligg risks fading away into the deep digital darkness of the Internet's history. That shouldn't be allowed to happen.Furthermore, it's worth noting that Pligg lies within the social network builder niche, an area of the CMS world that I've long bemoaned for not being as accomplished as it ought to be.Stellar social website &amp; social network builders are few and far between, with Pligg being a historically average option. Perhaps, though, through its sale and purchase, it can become the product that rejuvinates the social website builder niche.<h2>What's Included?</h2>Pligg's owner has answered a few questions via the Flippa sale page, detailing what's included in the sale:<blockquote>“I'd be glad to provide the new owner with [GitHub] admin rights so that they could take control of the project and publish updates.I am including all of the premium content that I have developed for Pligg, including the Facebook and Twitter login, Comment Subscription, and other popular modules. Modules included with the sale are marked as “Sold by: Pligg CMS” on the product page.All other modules are owned by their respective developers.”</blockquote>Some Exclusive Answers from The FounderI managed to ask a couple of questions directly to Pligg's Founder, Eric Heikkinen. Here's what he had to say.<hr />KI: Why have you decided to sell Pligg?EH: This week celebrates 10 years of Pligg development, and I've been a part of the project since it all began. As you might expect, a decade is a long time to be committed to one project.Over the past year, I haven't been able to give the project as much attention that it deserves and I hope to find a new owner who will be able to care and grow Pligg in my stead.KI: What challenges did you face while running Pligg?EH: The biggest issue that I faced as an open source project manager was sourcing and retaining developers. When I first began the project, there were a number of enthusiastic open source developers who were eager to help out and explore the new project. In 2005-2006, managing these users effectively was very difficult.The tools for collaborating were limited (no GitHub or Slack) and it wasn't easy for users to submit changes to the core code. Today the process is much easier, but I've struggle to find developers willing to contribute to the project regularly without any financial incentive.<hr />If you ask me, it's a pretty lucrative deal. Pligg has potential, and I hope the eventual buyer is able to push it away from decline, and into prosperisty again.Find out all the details via Pligg CMS' sale page on Flippa.

Pligg CMS Goes Up For Sale

Call Tracking + AI 

Call Tracking + AI that Turns Calls into Leads

#ffffff

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bitrix24.com/">Bitrix24</a>, the popular CRM and collaboration tool, has made a significant set of announcements.<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/bitrix24_logo_400x0.jpg" /> The platform – which is a little over three years old – has over 800,000 signups and 4.5 million users, and is set to gain a few more with the news of a free basic plan which now boasts a long list of new features. Bitrix24 also Best CMS for Corporate IntranetsSuch features include; CRM report dashboards, task dependencies, custom fields, email tasks, and much more. Let's take a closer look.<h2>A Seriously Major Bitrix24 Update</h2>One thing's for sure; this is a big Bitrix24 update.The actual CRM update brings about a long, long list of additions. We're talking about a new dashboard with reports on leads and also on quotes and invoices. But that's certainly not all.Here's a full list of what's new:<ul><li>Ability to add email recipients to activity stream posts</li><li>Tasks to email, email to tasks</li><li>Email to chat</li><li>New Bitrix24 instant messenger</li><li>Bitrix24.Softphone</li><li>Gantt chart with dependencies</li><li>New task reminder options</li><li>Restrict task scheduling to work days and work hours</li><li>New mobile tasks</li><li>New push notifications</li><li>Collaboration between users with different Bitrix24 accounts</li><li>New pricing and discounts</li><li>Gantt zoom in/out</li><li>Task dependencies</li><li>Workday/time scheduling restrictions</li></ul><h2>Mobile Updates Included</h2>Bitrix24's mobile-version CRM has been enhanced, too. When receiving an incoming call for example, users will be able to view the client’s full profile.<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/crm_-_en_-_1178x0-is.png" />The mobile version also now has a fully featured VoIP softphone, as well as quick replies from push notifications via Apple Watch and Android Wear, providing easy access to live chat.<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/applewatch_-_en259x0-is.png" />Overall, it's safe to say that the Bitrix24 team has worked hard on this robust update. More interestingly though, is their move to provide a totally free plan, opening the door to customer relationship management for countless small-to-medium sized businesses across the world. Good on them.To find out more about this update, checkout the Bitrix24 blog announcement. Also, be sure to checkout the video presentation of the new update.

Bitrix24 Unveils Free CRM Plan & Flurry of New Features

<a href="https://svbtle.com/" target="_blank">Svbtle</a> is a minimalist blogging platform that has been through a few changes since its launch in 2011.
Initially, Svbtle membership was invite only, and this exclusivity was actually one of its key selling points. In 2014 though, it became available to everyone for $6 a month.
<a href="https://svbtle.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 17.40.17.png" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4c-GN4lD_HofTbmUFca2Bagg3V7uNIviTWI4Hn4nFbCxb18-7Rr7O6YXni-SlCnyHPH-PX3aCer5l3QkgS6yHhk3ppGcBd5dlk8xBpPMkNijyrFefXclnMcAlshrwunoZtbMTDq_" /></a>
Svbtle creator, Dennis Curtis, says he initially limited users because he wanted to prime the site with strong content and test it out before launching to the wider public. By inviting only select members, his goal was to create a site that housed meaningful and substantial content, but that might be a little tough to maintain now that it’s been made accessible to everyone.
I decided to take a look and see what Svbtle has to offer and hopefully this review will help you to decide if it’s publishing platform you’re looking for.
<h2>Getting Started</h2>
The signup process is simple. First, you’ll have to insert your name, email, password, and then come up with a nickname for your subdomain (you’ll get a svtble.com domain name automatically, but you can create a custom one later on).

<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 13.55.50.png" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/VHDMROlmHQ4d-77xKSKNlj5KM9GvmcFNLo1Z6LmYQFJBnPURsV6jpAh3xoR6R_1CvWCWp66uEsGv959wI2zpIzWxuADoM6GUOjNx4oc2eLFc4wKTwMKqZfWS5BR_CSktG4eXPxz4" />
New customers are offered a 2 week free trial, but you’ll need your credit card on hand to sign up for the monthly $6 fee; if you don’t wish to continue after the 2 weeks, you can simply cancel your card.
I can’t say I’m fan of this method though; it might as well say ‘please insert your card details and forget to cancel so that we can continue to charge you’.
But if you keep track of time, you won’t have any problems. And who knows, you may not want to cancel at all.
<h2>Ease Of Use</h2>
All of your posts will be composed on the ‘Ideas’ page, which you will be brought to when you click on the dashboard tab in the menu on the right hand side.
This screen is divided into 2 sections with your unpublished posts (ideas) on one side, and your published posts on the other.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 13.58.43.png" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/JGHMp7IPQJDQwWhC5ZYboY7-N75l9TIoZIciZtqK8uS8ZXi-ulB0oSNkQ5x9KDzuRp5fnUdV98vLPSBVMrWeYC3QS_O7fARAGr7teovQLwGB5Qxl2CqwLyydfS5PnZzywMjkabdF" />
When it comes to publishing a post, the Svbtle ‘editor’ really is as minimalist as it gets.
There are no menus available and you’re simply presented with a space to enter your blog title and post. If you want to make edits such as font changes, you will need to use Markdown – which adds in extra work that you really don’t need, especially if you have to learn it from scratch.
The only other features are the post scheduler and custom URL. If you wish, you can also choose to allow Svbtle to feature your post.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 15.27.58.png" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/CHioK2zaMdtmyShkgocCYybHmFH4FABmZrPuZwFRUUZawgA5nkes09rGvi3Sk8pykzm2xEgK8dH8Mz0Xed0-2sVGa4wm7LSLBpYvpS1Np1TTF770HSDYws2PsUyk6sTJACQIYO85" />
<h2>Themes</h2>
If you love customizing and designing your own themes, then you won’t be very happy with what’s on offer.
There are no tools or widgets, so choosing an accent colour and adding an avatar will be the extent of your creative endeavors here. I understand why Svbtle went down this route, after all – it’s a minimalist blog, but it won’t be for everyone.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 13.56.05.png" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/YkcFGjY3nMWUuguAn_jPZgOfAYiMxDzPVx2mJmlkD6_qr8I4hhsecGDzvD6Wp10nuE28T6RSTQywm0OGuMsUzPqGeLJ0I-IlqVm-W2Te2g4TrpwYmay32ERwThxGSaFbT530EhAH" />
<h2>Content Management and Promotion</h2>
Svbtle doesn’t allow comments. Instead, users can offer ‘kudos’ if they like a post – which isn’t exactly the best conversation starter.
Your readers also can give you a ‘nudge’ if you haven’t posted recently.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 14.05.26.png" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EduQdYQIDTAd4tuS57p7c7Ot8QQIs9T4JoKKvX7BKyvdOJo_lkHPOEdTUkFr0qj3yOJMimzFZyucjMRTj71w_9lrHdxlLRWY2Is5eZrHmQd5mlh9XkZKl_UK64ibzbj6ryNTHUOA" />
In terms of social sharing, there are optional Twitter and Facebook share buttons which you have to enable yourself, and you can also add your email address for people to contact you with feedback.
I can see how disabling comments minimizes the work involved in managing a blog, but I think users should have the option to enable them if they wish. SEO is also left out of the loop and there are no tools available to keep your metadata in order which will probably be an issue for some users.
However, there is at least a Google Analytics section which will allow you to incorporate analytics by typing in a code number.
<h2>Support</h2>
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-13 at 17.15.55.png" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ckARFhl8g-VvmfY8NOlT8SFSjnJdZgayHQWet_lQX2PxwoPVRJ4avO2X3YR8muwsYQ12ft0GjGOukLJqYO6zlHVXkbQvmMrHEKu8EFa9XC-h4e53TF3bZg9fU4bC02rDwkBJUpxE" />
There’s a distinct lack of community within Svbtle and this contributes to the lack of support available.
In the Help section, you’ll find a few FAQ’s and some useful Markdown documentation, and there’s an email address you can contact with any issues – but then you’re playing the waiting game until someone gets back to you.
Some real-time action would make a big difference here, such as adding an instant chat box or a help forum to the mix.
<h2>On The Fence</h2>
To sum it up, Svbtle just isn’t what is used to be.
When Svbtle first launched, it was a status symbol of sorts – and the sleek design and simplicity wasn’t its only appeal. Bloggers felt ‘special’ to be invited and have their work featured. But now that it’s readily available and competing with similar platforms such as Medium, Svbtle is going to have to up its game.
Sure, it has a beautiful design and an easy-to-use interface – but is that it? It can’t be, not if it wants to succeed.
Instead of being created with the user in mind, I think Svbtle was originally created with Svbtle in mind. And this worked when it was a clique that remained elusive and difficult to join, but now that it’s become open to everyone – the ‘we don’t need any frills because we’re the best’ vibe doesn’t really work anymore.
Hopefully this is something that will change pretty soon, because this is an elegant writing platform with a ton of potential.
Svbtle will appeal mostly to writers who aren’t overly concerned with engagement or promotion, and that’s absolutely fine. Maybe that’s the niche it’s going for. Not everyone simply writes content to improve their SEO ratings, promote their business, or create communities online.
Some people just write, to write. Svbtle was created for the lone wolf; the writer who will mull over drafts for weeks and tweak their posts to perfection; the writer who writes only for themselves and isn’t one bit apologetic for it. And I love those kinds of writers. Sometimes I am that kind of writer.
It can’t be denied that Svbtle is beautifully designed platform creates a distraction free zone for professional writers, and if I was looking for something like Evernote to keep track of notes and ideas for personal use, then Svbtle would be perfect.
But if a client asked me to set up a business blog for them today, this platform wouldn’t be my first port of call.
Have you used <a href="https://svbtle.com/" target="_blank">Svbtle</a> in the past, or are you using it at the moment? We would love to hear your thoughts on it in the comments below.

Svbtle Review

Following on from the <a href="/dotcms-enterprise-cloud-released/" target="_blank">recent release of dotCMS Enterprise Cloud</a>, dotCMS has unveiled version 3.3 of their platform.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/dotcms-250h-1.jpg" />
dotCMS is a platform with a track record in the enterprise market, and can be utilized either on-premise or via the cloud. It was also the winner of the <a href="/2014-critics-choice-award-winner-best-cloud-cms-for-smb/" target="_blank">2014 Critics' Choice Award for Best Cloud CMS for SMB</a>.
Here's what's new with dotCMS 3.3.
<h2>Cold Hard Cache</h2>
With 3.3, dotCMS has seriously revamped the way it handles caching.
First and foremost, the new advanced caching schemes with external cache are designed for use in high availability and low latency situations.
Here's a breakdown of the new features, which aim to keep systems running better, faster and with fewer downtimes.
<ul>
<li>Supports four caching providers: Guava, H2 (disk), Timed Memory, Redis (external cache service)</li>
<li>Supports multi region caching</li>
<li>Ability to add/define your own cache providers via plugin</li>
<li>Configurable cache chains</li>
<li>View cache region settings by name in dotCMS: System -&gt; Maintenance and press the Refresh Stats button</li>
<li>Note that configuration of cache chains and providers are available only in dotCMS Enterprise licensed editions. DotCMS Community editions use the default GuavaCache provider</li>
</ul>
dotCSMS Enterprise customers will find that, with dotCMS 3.3, a Redis Cache Provider is now included out of the box. <a href="http://redis.io/">Redis</a> allows offloading cache to networked servers or a cluster of servers.
The benefits of this approach include:
<ul>
<li>Redis caching servers can be scaled independently and at runtime in order to add or remove cache capacity and can improve performance</li>
<li>External caching with Redis removes the dotCMS cache from the Java heap, which lowers the dotCMS memory requirement and may significantly speed up Java GC</li>
<li>Cache “puts” and “removes” are network-wide</li>
<li>There is no external syncing mechanisms that can fail</li>
<li>dotCMS servers can be restarted with their caches fully loaded which is really cool, and speeds restarts which is most welcome in most situations.</li>
<li>Supports master/slave environments – read from one, write to another</li>
</ul>
<h2>Push Publishing</h2>
dotCMS 3.3 also brings about added stability to the platform's push publishing feature, thanks to a range of bug and use-case fixes.
The integrity checker has also been enhanced and the dotCMS team has added the ability to directly push languages and add languages to bundles.
So all in all, it's an update that's highly focused on improving the caching capbilities of dotCMS, which enterprise customers will be happy to hear about.
You can <a href="http://dotcms.com/blog/post/snapshot-dotcms-3-3" target="_blank">read the full story on the dotCMS blog</a>, or you can download dotCMS 3.3, <a href="http://dotcms.com/download/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
Want to find out more about dotCMS before you do any downloading? No problem. <a href="http://dotcms.com/" target="_blank">Visit their website</a>, or explore <a href="/2014-critics-choice-award-winner-best-cloud-cms-for-smb/" target="_blank">dotCMS via our CMS Directory</a>.

dotCMS 3.3 Arrives With Caching Improvements

<a href="http://www.kentico.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kentico Software</a> has revealed the latest version of its CMS, E-commerce, and Online Marketing platform. <a href="http://www.kentico.com/kentico9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kentico 9</a>.
Founded in 2004, Kentico is an Enterprise Web Content Management System and Customer Experience Management solution, available as an on-premise or cloud solution.
Kentico 9 is a sizeable update, bringing about a long list of improvements from MVC support to Modularization. Let's take a closer look.
<h2>A Look at the New Features of Kentico 9</h2>
Kentico 9 moves the platform forward quite some bit. Here's a detailed fifteen minute introductory video to get the ball rolling.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mzDNCdBCmek?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Continuous Integration 
Continuous Integration means that new changes are published more efficiently than ever before thanks to continuous delivery. Kentico 9's new Continuous Integration Solution is designed to be easy to set up, reliable, and fully automated.
This reduces the need for manual deployment, allows for better and faster detection of integration problems, and helps reduce and even prevent errors and loss of data – all resulting in reduced development costs.
Integrated Campaign Management 
Brands are facing issues when it comes to creating, managing, and evaluating campaigns based on incoming data.
Kentico 9 enables such brands to do all of that from a single, unified control panel. The new reporting engine is accessible not only for campaign management, but also for email marketing.
ASP.NET Model View Controller (MVC Support)
MVC is the fastest growing developer framework, helping companies to build better performing, more scalable websites.
In recognition of this trend, Kentico 9 has embraced MVC to a much higher degree than ever before.
Improved Web Farm Support
Kentico 9 is optimized for cloud deployments. Improvements such as auto-scaling support are geared at simplifying every user's life.
The platform has been geared to respond to the environment as it scales up or down, minimizing the amount of administration that companies have to do in web farm scenarios.
Modularization
The final major upgrade comes in the form of modularization.
With Kentico 9, it's much easier to move code between modules, and move modules in between projects. This functionality had its beginnings in version 8, but it has been dramatically expanded in version 9.
<h2>Evolving &amp; Delivering on Promises</h2>
Kentico's Technical Evangelist, Bryan Soltis, made some interesting remarks about how the product is evolving:
<blockquote>“Kentico 9 is evolving along with the .NET community and is a major step forward in terms of technology and capabilities.
The new release demonstrates that we're listening to our customers, to our partners – and even to those companies that aren't customers and partners – to see what features and capabilities they need and what obstacles remain in their way.”</blockquote>
Kentico's CEO, Petr Palas, on the other hand, spoke of how Kentico is keeping its promises:
<blockquote>“There are only a handful of vendors who offer customers the full range of capabilities, from CMS through E-commerce to Online Marketing. There are even fewer who can deliver on that promise. Kentico is one of those companies.”</blockquote>
To find out more about Kentico, <a href="http://www.kentico.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">visit their website</a>, or check out the Kentico 9 announcement. You can also view the new home page for Kentico 9 at <a href="http://www.kentico.com/kentico9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.kentico.com/kentico9</a>.
Plus, you can explore more of <a href="/products/kentico/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kentico via our CMS Directory</a>.

Kentico 9 Released With Integrated Campaign Management, MVC Support & More

<a href="http://silvrback.com/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Silvrback</a> is a sleek blogging platform that was designed with simplicity in mind.
Its creator, Damian Sowers, started working on Silvrback because he couldn’t find a blogging platform that completely satisfied his needs. So, he developed his own instead.
<a href="http://silvrback.com/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-05 at 23.12.25.png" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/E3OSZ_t5XuLXBa24w0vr5awlt2A3esxjvnOfvScrworheHk0OhesKpBJQ4CN4no5www-pMkTmTIzgdNxNVVKYySiZZHrf3hNh4QYbJqXeYCc-bzGL6XLCBWwEhu4U69WzOATr4Jp" /></a>
With Silvrback, Sowers has built a platform that provides a truly minimalist blogging experience, by incorporating the best elements of other similar platforms such as Svbtle and Medium. You can read more about these platforms in our list of <a href="https://www.cmscritic.com/minimalist-blogging-platforms/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">15 Blogging Platforms That Encourage You To Write</a> (Silvrback also gets a mention).
Sowers has spoken out about the pros and cons of these two platforms in particular, citing Medium as a platform that’s great for readers – but not so great for writers attempting to establish themselves in a highly populated market.
Key features of Silvrback include syntax highlighting for developers, custom domain support, and email subscriptions. However the lack of features it has on offer is actually its selling point; Silvrback aims to create a distraction free writing zone for authors by scaling back on the customization options available.
Silvrback offers a 14 day free trial for new users, and after this the pricing is set at $29.99 per year.
As a long-time WordPress user (and a self-confessed widget addict), I was curious about Silvrback – so I decided to check it out. Read on for my full review.
<h2>The Set-Up</h2>
Setting up a Silvrback account is easy. Once you’ve entered your name and email, you’ll be sent a registration email which will allow you to log in and complete the signing up process.
At this stage, you’ll need to come up with a username and a short description of yourself. Following this, there are optional entries where you can set up a custom domain name, add your social media links, and more.
The customization is pretty basic, but that’s what Silvrback is all about.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-05 at 23.07.13.png" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ahb2oyusJvpQK_L8AvdDm6k_yf_mFRgekMEDCR-fKhkDTBVRTazd6HsB_i8bUO9l5DH2c21ouKH_fsc8kzCXsOcRZhTDOQezLO1lrTDtQGgySe2hdtWUNJP_oQgBE_aNnEivrn-E" />
<h2>UI Schemes (Themes)</h2>
There are only two UI schemes to choose from on Silvrback, so the design options are limited – but that’s really the beauty of it.
Once you’ve selected your UI scheme, you can also add your profile photo and background image/color.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-05 at 21.44.01.png" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/riqm1yug7K-5xLKCbP7WLQ8LZ6ODFj6b_hmTqKIWvCYFAmkZhtVZvEWbiiYNNbExlpI3GMfopEKoRjPuAAbc6YNN2ulg0emumGG2Fpsu1D-uwsRq3DNGOV4M0tdx3FWGkP2OsHfa" />
<h2>The Bio Page</h2>
When discussing the author bio page he created for Silvrback, Sowers described Silvrback as ‘more than a blogging platform’, and ‘more like a branding platform’.
On the author bio page, writers can list projects they’re working on, places they’ve worked, education, and lots more. So it’s definitely a step up from the standard ‘about me’ section.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-05 at 22.20.42.png" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/qRSxstSAevD338BAb7o7h-qanSOj3ehIriKxYuZkkoruxso_cVb3tylzIcAOxLH1NwmT0goKbuw2XmXrn7S_tMTw0yfz4amBVQPq9NFBdy4N5InkrnWA67lRznLir0FqRTYbWbJx" />
<h2>Writing &amp; Publishing</h2>
Silvrback supports markdown, which automatically converts your plain-text input into HTML. The writing interface is almost identical to the published blog posts – as the same color, font, and spacing is used.
The markdown formatting symbols will be on display in the interface, but if you need to check your coding you can click the ‘preview’ button to see the ‘live’ page before publishing.
<img alt="Screen Shot 2015-12-05 at 22.09.05.png" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qRs1cq6y_jsJduKP5HGaL8aNI1ZsN4m_CZZ8EZQaOFmfFe9xM6gTr9T3eCIQevPmTJ9oImrbiw5srkwtyWwbzIGjsXqNbZstVYeyH97HalTgxuTudyYc3b-vQ7sHN_gOX3zgMXWk" />
Everything you write is also automatically saved in your browser and on Silvrback’s online servers.
So if your laptop is a bit temperamental side, you can rest assured that your work will be saved regardless. And, if you’ve ever had a catastrophic laptop freeze about half way through a 5000 word article (I can’t be the only one) – you’ll know how important this backup feature actually is.
<h2>The Verdict</h2>
In my opinion, Silvrback is a great markdown powered blogging platform that offers just enough customization, without overwhelming the user with unnecessary features.
If you’re looking for a feature-rich content management system, then Silvrback definitely isn’t for you. But if you’re after a cleaner and more simplistic interface, with a sleek and modern design, then this is a platform that’s worth checking out.
What’s your preferred blogging platform and how is it working for you? Why not share your favorite with us in the comments section below.

Silvrback Review

<a href="https://craftcms.com/" target="_blank">Craft</a> has announced the latest version of their core product, as well as a brand new product in the form of CraftCommerce.
<a href="https://craftcms.com/" target="_blank"><img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/craft-logo-200x107.png" /></a> 
In 2014, Craft was selected as the Critic'c Choice Winner for Best PHP CMS for Small to Midsize Businesses.
Craft CMS 2.5 is the update that brings about 280 new features and additions to their platform. <a href="https://craftcommerce.com/" target="_blank">CraftCommerce 1.0</a>, on the other hand, is something totally new. It' a first-party eCommerce solution that fits snugly into of Craft's core product.
Let's take a closer look at both.
<h2>Craft CMS 2.5: What's New?</h2>
Well, to begin with, Craft has released a smart introductory video:
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/147139440?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Most noticeably, there's a brand new and customizable dashboard where users can manage widgets.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/new-dashboard_2x688x0-is.png" />
That level of customization stretches elsewhere, too. Admins can now reorder the sidebar sources for element indexes, customize the source headings, and even customize which table columns should be visible.
Furthermore, new elements can now be created right from element selector modals, which should drastically speed up content creation workflows when the content needs to relate to other content that may not exist yet.
Craft 2.5 brings about hundreds more new features, and you can <a href="https://craftcms.com/news/craft-2.5" target="_blank">read about them here</a>.
<h2>Introducing CraftCommerce</h2>
The eagerly anticipated eCommerce platform for Craft CMS is finally here.
<a href="https://craftcommerce.com/" target="_blank">CraftCommerce</a> is the vendor's first foray into the world of eCommerce. The product was in private beta for some time, tested by around 200 participants.
<img src="https://cmscritic.com/ms-content/uploads/2023/08/edit-product-page_2x713x0-is.jpg" />
Features include; Live Preview, custom fields everywhere, Twig templating, mobile support, inline product creation, one-click updating, order processing workflows, and more.
CraftCommerce will set users back $999 per site, although its also free to download, upload and play around with (until you want to start accepting payments, anyway).
To learn more about CraftCommerce, <a href="https://craftcommerce.com/" target="_blank">check out the dedicated website</a>.
Also, be sure to explore more of <a href="/products/craft-cms/" target="_blank">Craft via our CMS Directory</a>.

Craft 2.5 & CraftCommerce 1.0 Unveiled

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