SharePoint migration can be challenging, but with proper planning, you can avoid common pitfalls. Here's what you need to know:
Data loss during SharePoint migration often stems from overlooked details. Misconfigured version control, incompatible customizations, and mishandled permissions can disrupt data integrity.
Some common causes include:
Once you understand these risks, you can take steps to safeguard your data.
A clear, organized strategy is essential for protecting data during migration. Start by auditing your content to pinpoint critical assets and their dependencies.
Here’s how to keep your data safe:
1. Pre-Migration Backup Protocol
Before starting, create full backups. Include version histories, permission structures, and any custom configurations in your documentation.
2. Phased Migration Strategy
Divide the migration into smaller, manageable parts based on content type and importance. For example, Lallemand successfully transitioned from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online by breaking their migration into phases, ensuring their custom solutions stayed intact.
3. Automated Verification Process
Use automated tools to check data integrity throughout the migration. Focus on these areas:
| Verification Area | Check Frequency | Key Metrics |
|---|---|---|
| Content Structure | Every 4 hours | File count, folder hierarchy |
| User Permissions | Daily | Access levels, group memberships |
| Version History | Post-migration | Document versions, metadata |
| Custom Solutions | Pre/Post-migration | Functionality, integration status |
"When performing a SharePoint migration, your biggest priority should be avoiding data loss and keeping your systems functioning properly." - ShareGate
To ensure data integrity, follow these steps:
Always test your backup’s reliability before starting each phase. Keep at least two separate backup copies in different locations throughout the process.
For sensitive content:
After securing your data, the next step is addressing compatibility issues to ensure a smooth migration.
Once your data is secure, the next step in a SharePoint migration is tackling compatibility issues. Moving between SharePoint versions can bring challenges, but addressing them early ensures a smooth transition.
Outdated SharePoint features often need updates to align with modern standards. Here's a quick guide to handling common issues:
| Feature Type | Solution | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Pages | Convert to modern pages with built-in web parts | Better user experience and mobile responsiveness |
| Custom Code | Replace with SharePoint Framework (SPFx) solutions | Improved performance and future-proofing |
| JSLink/XslLink | Transition to Column Formatting or Field Customizers | Easier maintenance and compliance with modern standards |
| Form Pages | Rebuild using PowerApps | More flexibility and a modern interface |
For example, AIS transformed a client's SharePoint 2010 home page by rebuilding it with SPFx and React.js. This update improved responsiveness and made ongoing maintenance much easier.
To address compatibility challenges further, Tech NoCo offers tailored strategies.
Tech NoCo takes a structured approach to resolving compatibility problems:
1. Assessment Phase
Analyze the current SharePoint setup to identify:
2. Modernization Strategy
Create customized plans that focus on:
3. Implementation Process
Use advanced development methods to ensure a seamless transition to modern features.
For the best results, consider these tips:
These steps not only resolve compatibility issues but also lay the groundwork for improving performance and speed in your SharePoint environment.
Once compatibility issues are resolved, the next step is improving migration speed. This involves tackling performance challenges and optimizing processes to reduce migration time while maintaining data accuracy.
Migration delays often arise from a variety of factors, including network limitations, inadequate server resources, and the structure of the content being transferred. Each of these can significantly impact overall performance.
| Bottleneck | Impact | Common Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Source Reading | Noticeable slowdown | Insufficient RAM, slow disk performance |
| Network Throttling | Fluctuating speeds | SharePoint's built-in protection |
| Content Structure | 250 GB/day vs 10 TB/day | Heavy vs light metadata files |
| Server Resources | Reduced throughput | Limited processing power, memory issues |
For example, content with heavy metadata - like list items with custom columns or small files - tends to migrate at about 250 GB per day. On the other hand, lighter files, such as ISO images or videos, can achieve speeds up to 10 TB per day.
Here are some practical ways to improve migration speed:
-DenyAddAndCustomizePages $false command on target sites."Everyone asks how fast Microsoft 365 content can be migrated. However, what you do or don't do before and during the migration can have the greatest impact on migration speed." - Randy Rempel, Senior Product Manager, Quest
Getting employees on board is just as important as technical preparations when it comes to migration success. Research shows that over 40% of SharePoint projects face adoption challenges due to a lack of proper training. Once the technical side is sorted, the focus should shift to addressing employee concerns and resistance.
Employees often resist change because it disrupts their familiar workflows or raises productivity concerns. The table below highlights common challenges and practical solutions:
| Resistance Type | Common Concerns | Solution Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Anxiety | Fear of a steep learning curve | Gradual rollout with hands-on practice |
| Workflow Disruption | Impact on daily tasks | Show real-world examples of improved processes |
| Data Security | Worries about information safety | Educate on security protocols |
| Time Investment | Training seen as time-consuming | Offer quick 30-minute learning sessions |
"We're all excited about this technology, but it also creates fear because we're creatures of habit. So, I think it's important to communicate clearly and really focus on taking their fears away." - Antje Lamartine, Microsoft MVP
A well-rounded plan is key to addressing different learning styles and comfort levels with technology.
"It's really about working with change and really understanding what your employees need. It should be part of the cohesive plan all along." - Liz Sundet, Program Manager at Microsoft
Here are some training strategies to consider:
Tech NoCo takes user adoption to the next level by tailoring solutions to fit employee needs and workflows. Their approach includes:
These strategies help ease the transition, reduce resistance, and encourage employees to fully embrace SharePoint's capabilities.
A successful SharePoint migration involves three main stages: pre-migration, migration, and post-migration. Each phase plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition. Here's a quick breakdown:
| Phase | Key Actions | Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Migration | Conduct a thorough data inventory and clean up outdated content | Simplifies the migration process and creates a more efficient environment |
| During Migration | Monitor in real time and address issues promptly | Reduces risks of data loss and maintains system stability |
| Post-Migration | Test functionality and fine-tune performance | Improves overall system reliability and efficiency |
"There's so much more to SharePoint migrations than just lift and shift; you need to cover every angle - from planning to optimization to governance and beyond." - ShareGate
These steps highlight the need for careful planning and ongoing support at every stage.
Tech NoCo offers specialized tools and services to tackle migration challenges effectively. Their solutions include:
With these resources, Tech NoCo can help simplify your SharePoint migration and set you up for long-term success.
We're here to help you reach your goals.
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