WDM enables your organization to abandon the old, ineffective methods of publishing new or updated Web content. And it maximizes the value of your business development by making it easier to publish frequent updates on your site.
Web Development Management solutions vary widely in price and performance - not all are created equal. There are a few things you should be aware of when researching and choosing a WDM solution:
Price:
Solutions have moved into the mainstream with prices within the reach of any organization. You no longer need to spend thousands of dollars for a fully functional and professional Web development management solution. Robust WDM solutions can be found today from $300 to $3,000, depending on the users’ needs.
Scalable:
Many organizations that adopt WDM solutions start small - putting only a section of their Website "under management" and extending it to a handful of users. Focus on vendors that provide
flexible solutions that will allow you a complete Web strategy that evolves with your business.
Easy Integration:
Vendors like to claim that their solutions are easy to integrate - but is it true? Due diligence
will help you to answer this question. It is no longer acceptable for WDM solutions to take months to integrate - the new standard is integration in days or weeks.
Easy to Use:
Many vendors say it's easy to use their solution. This is an important attribute - if a business user finds it the least bit difficult to navigate your site, it may not get visited at all. Be your own judge. Find vendors who let you test drive your web site at no charge.
Functionality:
Even "low-cost" WDM solutions deliver key components that used to cost thousands of dollars,
including: browser-based user interface, workflow/approval process, security, document check-in/check-out, content history tracking/audit trails, advanced search functionality, and the ability to view staged content.
 Related note - Find vendors who deliver a solution that fits your needs, not one that makes you fit their requirements.
Stable Vendor:
A shakeout is occurring in the Web development management market, with many smaller
vendors falling aside. Align your interests with a vendor that has a proven track record and a WDM focus – with references and case studies to back it up. |
