Payload CMS – The next generation open-source headless CMS
Payload is a modern headless CMS based on Node.js/TypeScript. It combines maximum flexibility for developers with a convenient admin interface for editors. As an open-source solution, it is API-first (REST & GraphQL) and available both self-hosted and as a cloud service – you always retain full control over your content.
Key functions and features:
- Code-based content model: Model content using code (schema in TypeScript) – suitable for any data model. Any fields, relationships and validations can be defined in no time at all.
- Custom Admin UI: The React-based admin interface can be customised and branded. Offer your team an intuitive interface tailored precisely to your content and workflows.
- Rights management & versioning: Granular access rights down to field level, version history for every change and scheduled publications enable professional editorial processes.
- Media management & integrations: Manage images, videos and documents centrally. Webhooks and plugins allow the connection of external services (e.g. image optimisation, SSO, cloud storage) as well as the addition of specific functions.
- Multilingualism: Content can be maintained in multiple languages – ideal for international websites and apps. (The admin interface itself also supports multiple languages.)
Typical use cases: Whether it's a content commerce platform, corporate website or B2B portal, Payload adapts to suit. Its headless approach allows it to serve as a flexible content hub in composable architectures (MACH principle). For example, it can be combined with a shop system, PIM or individual applications to deliver consistent content across channels. Developer-first projects in particular benefit from Payload: when standard CMSs reach their limits, Payload enables even unusual requirements to be implemented without workarounds.
Technology & advantages: Payload is based entirely on the JavaScript/TypeScript stack, which guarantees an outstanding developer experience. Developers work with familiar tools, clean code and clear interfaces – no proprietary ballast. Thanks to API-first architecture, front ends in React, Vue, mobile apps or even IoT devices can be seamlessly connected. Extensibility is a top priority: functionality can be expanded as desired via hooks and plugins. Agencies don't have to worry about licence costs and limitations – they can create tailor-made solutions that are exactly right for their customers. Content teams, on the other hand, appreciate the simple, fast operation: the backend only shows what is needed, and complex workflows run automatically in the background. In short, developers, partners and editors alike enjoy the freedom and efficiency that Payload offers.
Our Payload partnership: In 2024, we at INFOLOX integrated Payload into our projects. The first step was as a page builder, site builder and template builder in conjunction with API connections to PIM, DAM and other headless CMS. We are now gradually expanding the ADMIN UI to meet the specific needs of our B2B customers with complex products and variants, and are also integrating Payload as a headless CMS.
Outlook – Figma & Payload: In June 2025, Payload was acquired by design platform market leader Figma. This merger underscores Payload's innovative strength and opens up entirely new possibilities for seamlessly combining design and content. In the future, for example, design systems from Figma could flow directly into the CMS – an enormous benefit for consistent brand identities and efficient workflows. For our customers, the Figma-Payload alliance means that their digital experience will benefit from even closer integration between creative design and content management. We are accompanying this development first-hand and ensuring that you can make the most of the new opportunities for your business.
