What are three words you would use to describe Rock RMS?
Powerful.
Scalable.
Complex.
These words all came to mind as soon as I began exploring Rock.
There is definitely a learning curve when it comes to switching to Rock RMS to build a website. I have to admit that Rock is pretty difficult to jump into (as most rocks would be … ha!). I experienced this learning curve recently while building my first Rock site. With so many modules and custom features, it can be difficult to know where to begin. That is why I have compiled a list of helpful nuggets to digest as you are beginning your Rock programming journey. I want to encourage you that you will quickly get used to the quirks of Rock, just like using any other CMS for the first time.
Rock offers a wide variety of tools including database administration and a mobile app platform, but here we will focus on the front-end website side of things. As a Rock web developer, the CMS Configuration screen under Admin Tools will quickly become your new home!
The Sites module in Rock is square one. You are able to build several different websites within the same Rock installation. This capability is especially valuable for churches that invest in multiple other ministries outside of Sunday morning services such as a cafe, community center, preschool, etc. We’ve all browsed a website with a complex navigation bar and way too many pages to know that this is not the ideal setup.
Rather than housing information about all of these ministries on one massive website, consider breaking them out into their own microsites to give visitors a more efficient and catered to experience.
How to: Creating a New Site
There are some key terms you will need to become familiar with…
How to: Looking Deeper at Layouts
How to: Managing Zones
How to: Adding Pages and Blocks
One major benefit of Rock RMS is how it manages individual web pages. Pages are not saved as complete files, but rather dynamically constructed each time a user visits. This allows Rock to offer more personalization than any other church CMS. You are able to customize notifications, menu items and other content to cater to each specific user whether they are logged in or not. This will make your Rock website feel engaging and interactive.
How to: Personalization
I have found that the people within the Rock leadership team and community are so involved and eager to help others along the way. That is why there are various resources available such as the Rocket Chat, Rock Cast, Manuals, Classes, and Recipes. One useful tool I want to highlight is Rock U, which is a hub of video tutorials on just about every area of the RMS.
All of these resources provide both high-level strategies on how to manage your church through the RMS and in-depth tutorials on web development. Be sure to take full advantage of the robust Rock community as you jump in!
How to: Get Involved
How to: Rock U
Now go for it! Create your first website in Rock RMS and then celebrate your achievement. For a more in-depth look at building sites in Rock, read through the Designing and Building Websites Manual provided by Rock.
And if this feels like heavy lifting or you need additional support … you know where to find our Fishhook team. We’d love to partner with you to create a customized website experience for your church.