5 Great Social Networking CMS Platforms

A Content Management System (CMS) is a software application that allows users to create, manage, and modify digital content without requiring deep technical expertise. CMS platforms are widely used for enterprise content management (ECM) and web content management (WCM), empowering individuals and organizations to build websites and online communities efficiently.

In simple terms, a CMS is a tool that helps you build and manage a website without having to code everything from scratch.

What Makes Up a Content Management System?

A CMS typically consists of two key components:

1. Content Management Application (CMA):
   The front-end interface that enables users to add, edit, and manage content on the website without needing advanced technical knowledge.
2. Content Delivery Application (CDA):
   The back-end system that processes and stores content from the CMA and delivers it to website visitors in a structured, accessible format.

Together, these components make CMS platforms powerful tools for building blogs, websites, e-commerce portals, and social networks.

5 Great Social Networking CMS Platforms

1. phpFox

phpFox is a robust and user-friendly platform designed to build customizable online communities. It comes packed with advanced social networking features found on leading community websites, such as user profiles, activity feeds, messaging, and groups. Its flexibility allows administrators to tailor the system to meet specific community needs, making it an excellent choice for businesses and niche networks.

2. SocialEngine

A multiple award-winning CMS, SocialEngine is widely regarded as one of the best tools for creating fully customizable online communities. No coding or design experience is required to launch a social platform with SocialEngine.

Key features include:

• Customizable voting, liking, commenting, and discussion systems.
• An intuitive admin panel for managing users and content.
• A wide range of plugins and themes for personalization.

SocialEngine stands out for its deep customization capabilities, giving site owners complete control over the look, feel, and functionality of their social network.

3. Pligg

Pligg CMS is a popular open-source platform specifically designed for creating social publishing networks. Much like Reddit, Digg, or Mixx, it allows users to submit, share, and promote content.

Highlights:

• Supports unlimited authors and contributors.
• Ideal for community-driven websites focused on news aggregation, voting, and discussions.
• Powers tens of thousands of social publishing websites worldwide.

For anyone looking to create a content-sharing community, Pligg is an effective solution.

4. Ning

Ning is a powerful platform for building stylish and engaging online communities. It offers tools that make it easy to connect, communicate, and engage with users.

Standout features include:

• Built-in email broadcast tools for sending HTML newsletters.
• Customizable design templates for professional-looking communities.
• A fast setup process that allows users to launch a community in minutes.

Ning is currently one of the largest online community-building platforms globally, offering both scalability and ease of use.

5. eXo Platform

Originating as an open-source project in 2002, eXo has evolved into a leading open-source collaboration and communication platform for enterprises. It provides a comprehensive suite of social networking, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing tools.

Notable aspects:

• Trusted by organizations like the U.S. Department of Defense.
• Offers social intranet features, document management, and chat systems.
• Strong global presence with offices in the U.S., France, and Tunisia.

eXo is best suited for enterprises seeking a scalable and secure social networking solution with integrated collaboration tools.

Final Thoughts

Each of these CMS platforms offers unique features tailored to different types of online communities—ranging from small niche groups to large enterprise networks.

• Choose phpFox or SocialEngine if you want a customizable, ready-to-launch social community.
• Opt for Pligg if your focus is content-sharing and publishing.
• Go with Ning for fast setup and stylish community features.
• Select eXo if you need an enterprise-level, open-source collaboration suite.

By leveraging the right CMS, you can build a thriving online community that fosters engagement, communication, and growth.