Mambo CMS

Mambo is a feature rich open source CMS tool with an easy to use interface that allows even an inexperienced user to maintain a web site with professional functionality. The learning curve is a little steep for a first time user to set up, but one of the most remarkable features included in the Mambo structure is access to a well-developed help system and active community built right into the admin area. Users who need it always have help at their virtual fingertips.

After initial setup, web page creation is fast and easy using Mambo's WYSIWYG (What you see is what you get) editor. Pages are edited in a familiar environment most clients will be comfortable with, much like an email window. Tables allow you to create nested or flat content areas on the page, and navigation options offer easy sub-menu options for primary and secondary pages. Images can be uploaded to the server in the administration area or by FTP, or accessed from another web source. Editing pages after publication is just as easy.

You have the option of previewing the content before publishing, in order to spot any mistakes and edit them out. You can also save a draft and get back to it later. After content is published, it can be added to the site search engine and included in rss feed for public dispersal.

Mambo supports a member environment with tiered levels of service for members and guests, giving the administrator the option of restricting or allowing access to content relevent to each group in the tier. Problem members can be blocked to prevent access and messages can be sent to the entire user base. User preference includes and option to forward communications to registered email address, making Mambo an effective group mailing option.

Mambo excels in workflow management. The administrator has the ability to assign tasks and create a schedule for document submission, or to set start and stop dates for information availability. This makes Mambo an excellent project or task manager, with each user controlling his input and the project manager privy to what has been done at a glance.

One of the most appealing features of Mambo is user extensibility. The Mambo CMS community has been active for many years, creating and offering new extensions to increase and add functionality or to enhance existing features. You can choose from functional modules, visual or functional template styles, or simple layout variations - or a combination of all to find the right fit for the project at hand.

Mambo CMS is one of the most talked about tools in the developer market, and with good reason. the level of functionality is superior to most tools, and the ease of use after installation is remarkable. While some businesses may need industry specific or custom software, many will find they can adapt Mambo to serve their business tracking or workflow needs.