Using Performance Metrics to Guide the Selection of a Website Content Management System -The Case of Joomla, Drupal and WordPress

Abstract

The most recent trend in website development is the usage of Content Management Systems (CMS). These systems provide user-friendly interactive interface for persons without prior computer coding knowledge to utilize them to create websites. Different kinds of content management system technologies are now available, hence, it becomes challenging for users/developers to decide on which one is best to work with. This study, researched into three popular CMS’s namely, Joomla, Drupal and WordPress to explore which of these proposed three will be ideal for developing efficient website in terms of performance. This study resulted in researching into details the features common to all the three CMSs. These features were evaluated based on four performance criteria. The method this study used was a quantitative method. Practically, the researcher developed three websites using the three CMSs, and tested them against performance criteria namely, page load time, page size , number of cascading style sheet file and number of JavaScript files. The results or data collected through the page performance exercise was then tabulated, compared, and later analyzed. The study found that Joomla CMS created much JavaScript files as compared to all, and as a result was very interactive, WordPress also created much CSS file, as a result gives the best web layout. The researcher concluded that each of these CMS performed well in different criteria. As a result, the best CMS will depend on the interest of the developer for his or her site. These researched done will help readers and the academia in general to acquire knowledge that reveals the characteristics of the three CMS in terms of strengths and shortfalls.

Keywords: CMS, website, Wordpress, Joomla, Drupal content management system, developer

DOI: 10.7176/IKM/13-1-04

Publication date: January 31^st 2023