I am asked this question a lot in relation to different vendors. I know the answer. But I am always perplexed by the origin of the question.

I talk to enough customers and vendors to know what organizations pay, and when vendors are willing to give out discounts, and what an average customer agrees to pay for any Web CMS in the market. Depending on which tier you look at, your budget can start at US$5K, $20K, $50K, $100K, or $250k – license cost only.

It is still a common misconception that open source is free. I've long been an advocate and educator for organizations, trying to get them to understand that licensing is only the initial investment. The bulk of the expenses will come during the implementation.

So, if you ask me who is cheaper when you're considering Adobe CQ5 vs. Drupal, or Ektron vs. OpenText, or some other nonsense combination, my answer to you: your priorities are wrong. First, look at how the WCMS fits what you're trying to accomplish. Second, look at how your business objectives are met with various options. (Our WCMS evaluations can help you here.) Third, look at how much your initial investment will be. I can go on.

It's simple, really. You're not just buying technology, or just a Web CMS product – you're buying a relationship. Whether you're loaded or not, it's not just about money.