In schoolwork, the following applies: either the answer is correct or it is not correct. Apart from that, however, there is not always a clear yes or no. The problem is also known to editors who want to venture onto the Internet – and are wondering which software is best for doing so. Because there are probably hundreds of website builders out there now, all with their pros and cons. You have to find your way in this confusion. An overview and four popular examples:
The basics
In the past, anyone looking for a modular program for websites had to buy and install it on a CD. Today, so-called content management systems (CMS) can be conveniently operated via the browser. In this way, in simplified terms, several people can jointly access the website from different computers; there, for example, creating articles or proofreading, creating new subpages or fine-tuning the look of the website. A school computer is not absolutely necessary and it is also possible to work from the laptop at home – not entirely unimportant in these Corona times, which are considered to be distanced. Many CMS are also available as free basic versions, with which all sorts of things can be done even without programming knowledge. Even your own domain is sometimes included.
The top dog
WordPress is the most common CMS found on the internet. On the one hand, this is due to the fact that it is user-friendly; on the other hand, some templates – quasi design templates – and plug-ins – applications that can be integrated – are available free of charge. As with other CMS, different roles can be defined for users, which makes everyday editorial work easier. Perhaps the biggest snag with WordPress is its popularity, which makes the CMS attractive to malware. Updates should therefore be run regularly to close security gaps.
The starter set
Jimdo is also very popular among school newspapers. Because this CMS is considered to be particularly beginner-friendly and intuitive to use. And: Jimdo specifically advertises to schools and teachers, for example with their own class websites that can be used to share worksheets. Knowledge of HTML and CSS is not necessary. Compared to some other editors, the possibilities are therefore limited. The result can still be seen: As with other CMS, the designs can be individualized, texts can be published, and photos and videos can be integrated. The first website draft is quick, which motivates improvements and gimmicks in equal measure. The basic version is free, but there are also four tiered paid versions.
The heavyweight
There is also a wide range of free extensions for Typo 3, with which journalistic content can be displayed even better. Theoretically, everything is possible with this CMS – but it doesn’t hurt to have a little technical knowledge for the practical implementation. As is well known, everything can be learned, but helpful tutorials can be found on the internet. Nevertheless, CMS newcomers should always come up against their limits. Typo 3 is therefore more suitable for ambitious amateurs and of course professionals.
The space station
Even Drupal could possibly overwhelm people with no prior knowledge of website tinkering. The interesting thing about this CMS is that it is structured in a similar way to the International Space Station ISS: around a core, further modules are coupled according to taste, each of which has special abilities. Step by step, the website grows into either a classic homepage or a community platform. Alternatively, preconfigured models can be selected to a certain extent. These standard types leave less individual leeway, but they also do less work.
A free downloadable manual from the Bavarian Ministry of Education collects further online tips: https://www.km.bayern.de/online-schuelerzeitung