What is a headless CMS
The headless CMS is a back-end only content management system. It dissociates the content management from the presentation layer. If “head” is the presentation layer (or front-end) and “body” is the content repository, we cut the head from the body. Hence the name “headless”. Since we no longer have a default front-end, we are free to create as many “heads” as we want. And deliver our content to any device.
It uses an API call
A headless CMS uses an API call to establish a momentary link between the code written in the back-office. Also, the display of the content on the front-office side. A REST API is an application programming interface. Its role is to mobilize a set of predefined protocols that can be used by all software to retrieve the content to be displayed inside the CMS. If a link between the two parts is established only when necessary, it makes the technical structure much lighter.
It is tailored for the future
With headless CMS systems, marketers and developers can create amazing content today – and more importantly, future-proof their content management to deliver content that is always engaging, across all devices.
Advantages of the headless CMS
Compatibility with different programming languages and flexible front-office design. Besides, it allows for greater customization of your users’ experience. Marketing and content teams only have to create content once, and deliver it to all devices and channels. The REST API provides dynamic data that can be integrated into the page structure at any time, even without refreshing it. And using a headless CMS reduces the risk of DDoS attacks.
Disadvantages of a headless CMS
A headless CMS does not include the front-end. Your developers will have to configure it themselves, so you must hire developers who master back-end and front-end programming languages, which may not be your case. You will also need to set up permissions and credentials to protect confidential content from unauthorized users. A typical CMS includes user management in its administration panel.
Remember: Using a headless CMS may not be the best option for every web project, but you should at least familiarize yourself with the concept, as they are becoming more and more popular in the content management system ecosystem.