I'm looking to build a digital platform for conducting oral exams, where users can examine various types of data like videos, PDFs, and notes before presenting their findings. The main user experience involves logging in to access different pages containing this data, and at the end, users should be able to note down their observations in a saveable format. Additionally, the platform needs to meet several specific requirements: it must utilize a CMS that allows users to create new exam sites easily, while also ensuring everything is secured behind a login. The CMS should support embedded content so that nothing is directly downloaded, and there must be options to add customizable note input fields wherever needed to mirror a traditional paper format. I initially considered using a multi-site WordPress setup, but I ran into challenges with managing plugins and site creation. What other frameworks or CMS options would better suit these needs?
3 Answers
I suggest moving away from WordPress. It was never designed for web apps and using a multisite setup with multiple plugins can quickly become a maintenance nightmare. Instead, think about using a headless CMS like Directus or PayloadCMS in combination with a frontend framework like Next.js. This way you can build the exam viewer once and let your clients manage the content easily without dealing with daunting plugin settings every time they create a new site. It'll streamline your process significantly.
Consider a headless CMS paired with a frontend like Strapi or Directus for the backend and Next.js or Nuxt for the frontend. You'll have to create a site generator for different exam parameters, but this approach allows your customers to have control over managing their content without hassle. Make sure to clarify whether editing needs to be user-friendly for a few admins or for many individual customers—it'll impact how you set up the architecture.
Definitely skip the WordPress route! You need a strong data structure for your digital exam site. A headless CMS like Strapi would fit your needs perfectly, working alongside a frontend framework such as Next.js. This combination will handle user authentication cleanly and help avoid the complications that come with managing multiple sites on WordPress.

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