indead joomla can be big , but it doesnt have to be ! try to get the most control of the site by running a dedicated server or at least SSH acces to the service ! joomla is good works good and got a big community .
1. Joomla enables a user to edit the site directly in the browser window. The user can add pages, edit pictures, change links and perform other web-designing tasks very easily. Its user-friendly administrative interface is represented by graphics and even a person who has no knowledge of HTML, CSS, etc. can understand it within a short span of time. 2. Can be installed via automatic script installers such as Fantastico. 3. Website owner decides to add pages or alter his site, he can do so using Joomla - he doesn't have to seek the help of a programmer or a designer. 4. it features a huge range of aesthetic templates that can make a website look like it was designed by a real pro. Both Gpl and Commercial templates. 5. Several extensions avalable for various function and enchancement to your site project. 6. Great friendly community. Good Luck in your decision.
I think joomla is great even with SEF url's ( i use sef advance) my site is still quite quick. even on a shared hosting platform i would recommend getting joomla and installing it and having a play to get used to it. then make a decision on if it is necassary for your site. i wouldnt use joomla for very small sites perhaps xoops or wordpress would be more suitable but if you want to go for a full community driven site with a lot of content and forums etc then joomla is very very good.
Has large users base good support forum great template clubs easy to design template for it now that there are dreamweaver extensions around has lots of components, modules and plug ins ( free and commercial) Now with own forum (fireboard) I haven't use it yet, but i heard joomla 1.5 is the business
joomla is one of the best cms ever made. its has great community, largest database of extension and hundred and thousands of templates.