Review: Plone Content Management Essentials

It was difficult to rank my second choice, and I went back and forth on this for some time. However, in my opinion this shorter volume (245 pages) is a great book written for a different audience than the others - beginners - but it is still useful for more advanced users. The author states up-front that this is for the "masses" who do not have advanced Python, Zope, or Plone experience.

Luckily for me, by chance, I ran across this at the local bookstore before I got any of the other books. I think the shorter size makes the book less intimidating tot he new Plone user, less of a phone-book feel. Of course, it can't possibly cover as much material in the same detail. Chapter 2 is about installing, with even 3 pages about Linux, but not too extensive. Obviously geared more for people using the Windows installer version.

Chapter 3 provides very basic procedures for "using" a Plone site, but it is really well written and suitable for even the most newbie user level. For example, at page 70 it even has a section on how to use the search box! Once again, great book to perhaps hand over to a new user in your office once you get a new Intranet site up and ready for them to log in.

Chapter 4 is interesting in that the author jumps to "Additional Plone Elements", a.k.a. "products". Perhaps a bit outdated on some of the info (now that folders can be set to look like photo albums, why use a photo album product?); however, adding products is one of the most powerful aspects of this CMS, and since it is easy, it is sometimes overlooked by authors.

Chapter 5 covers customization of the look of Plone, but is way too short. Just covers skins and page templates enough to make you aware of what you don't know. Ok for beginner, but you will rapidly outgrow this part.

Appendix A really seems to be a waste of valuable page space. It tries to give an introduction to Python programming, the language at the heart of Plone, but the author never shows an example of how to use Python code in Plone itself, so why show it at all.

Appendix B is an interesting and clear overview of Zope and the ZMI, which also underlies Plone. But in this case, its ZMI screen grabs are more relevant for the beginner user. The book end with a good index. Overall, the author Julie C. Meloni did a good job reaching her intended audience, new users. It says she does computer training and her skill in that area shows through. $29.99

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