Decap CMS is a headless, Git-based content management system designed to provide a visual editing interface for static site workflows. By decoupling the administrative dashboard from the frontend, it allows users to manage content stored directly in version control repositories as structured data. The system maps visual form inputs to repository files, enabling non-technical contributors to update content without requiring direct code changes.
The platform distinguishes itself through its Git-centric automation, which handles content lifecycles by creating commits, branches, and pull requests automatically. It features a schema-driven architecture that dynamically generates administrative interfaces based on configuration objects, allowing for highly tailored dashboards. Developers can extend the editor through a modular widget system, custom preview templates, and specialized serialization logic for non-standard file formats.
Beyond its core editing capabilities, the system includes comprehensive tools for managing complex content hierarchies, media assets, and multi-language localization. It supports collaborative editorial workflows, including staging and approval processes, and integrates with various identity providers to manage secure access. The interface can be deployed as a standalone dashboard or bundled as a module within existing project assets.