Automad

Automad is an open-source, self-hosted flat-file content management system and template engine. It allows for the creation and management of websites without the need for a relational database, instead storing all content, configuration, and site data directly in files on the server. This architecture simplifies backups and migrations since the entire site exists as a directory of files.

The software is deployed as a web application on a server and is primarily used for building static-like websites with dynamic management capabilities. Installation is supported via Docker, which bundles Nginx and PHP 8.3 for a containerized environment, or through Composer for a standard PHP installation. Users who lack access to these tools can perform a manual installation by moving a distribution bundle to the document root of a webserver and configuring the necessary PHP write permissions.

Key features

• Flat-file architecture that eliminates the need for a database
• Integrated template engine for website design
• Dedicated dashboard for content management
• Docker support for rapid deployment with Nginx and PHP
• Composer integration for project installation
• Support for custom language packs and translations
• Syntax highlighting plugins for various text editors
• Manual installation option for standard webserver environments

The system is designed for developers and site administrators who prefer a file-based approach to content management over traditional database-driven systems. Because it relies on PHP, it integrates with standard web server environments and requires the PHP process to have write permissions to the document root for the dashboard to function. The template language is supported by specific editor plugins that provide snippets and syntax highlighting, which assists in the development of custom themes and layout structures.

Automad serves as a lightweight tool for building websites that prioritize simplicity in data storage and deployment, catering to those who want a manageable interface without the overhead of a database server.