About

Adobe Dreamweaver is a powerful software program used to design, create, and update non-WordPress websites. It is required to create or make non-content-related updates (e.g., navigation, layout) to a non-WordPress website. Dreamweaver uses FTP to connect and upload files to your non-WordPress website.

Usage

Dreamweaver is typically used with Adobe Contribute to setup and maintain a non-WordPress website:

  1. The website is created using Dreamweaver.
  2. Content updates are made using Contribute.
  3. Changes to layout, navigation, and appearance are made using Dreamweaver.

Although Dreamweaver is a powerful web design program, it has a steep learning curve and high license cost. In addition, all Contribute and Dreamweaver users for a single website must use the same software version (e.g., CS3 or CS4) to avoid compatibility issues. As a result, BU departments are increasingly migrating their Dreamweaver/Contribute-based websites to WordPress.

Comparison with WordPress

WordPress has many advantages over Dreamweaver, including:

  1. It’s free — no software purchase is required.
  2. Ease of use.
  3. Drag-and-drop navigation.
  4. Streamlined file management.
  5. Built-in user management.
  6. Access controls.
  7. A catalog of existing designs.
  8. Built-in news and calendar tools.

To learn more about WordPress or request that your site be migrated to WordPress, see our WordPress Overview.

Purchasing

Departments can purchase licenses for Adobe Dreamweaver at a discount through the IT Help Center. Note: discounted licenses must be purchased using an approved requisition and are only available to official University departments and offices.