Decoupled CMS
What is a decoupled content management system?
A decoupled CMS is a content management system architecture where the backend and frontend systems are separated, or decoupled. In other words, there is one system for the backend content creation and storage layer (the “body”), and another, separate system for the frontend content delivery or presentation layer (the “head”). APIs (application programming interfaces) then connect these two elements to deliver and present the content across various specified devices and channels.
Headless content management systems vs decoupled CMS
In a traditional content management system, such as WordPress, the frontend and backend components are intertwined, or “coupled”. In both a headless and a decoupled CMS architecture, these elements are separated, and the content is delivered via APIs or a web service. However, in a decoupled CMS, a frontend component still exists, whereas in a headless CMS, there is no frontend or presentation element.
Which architecture is right for my business?
There are pros and cons to each of these CMS solutions, so choosing the right one depends on your business needs and available resources. For example, building a decoupled system usually requires more frontend developer work than a headless system. However, if site redesigns or upgrades are necessary in a decoupled CMS, content editors can continue working simultaneously, as the content creation and presentation layers are separate. While headless and decoupled content management systems tend to offer more flexibility and scalability, they may also come with higher costs compared to traditional CMS builds.
