Thinking of a CMS Migration? Consider the Following First
While the prospect of migrating to a new CMS may seem daunting, we’re happy to report that it’s not as overwhelming as it may appear.
An effective content management system (CMS) streamlines website management, enabling users to easily create, modify, and publish content without requiring technical expertise. But if you find yourself reaching the limitations of your current CMS, it may be time to explore other options.
While the prospect of migrating to a new CMS may seem daunting, we’re happy to report that it’s not as overwhelming as it may appear. Hopefully this piece helps guide you through the early stages of the process.
What’s a Migration?
A CMS migration means moving your website or your group of sites from one CMS to another.
You might consider a migration if:
You’re accounting for business growth
Your current CMS includes outdated features
There is limited customization on your current CMS
You want to scale your content distribution options
There are many reasons to migrate your CMS that are not listed above, so even if these reasons don’t resonate, migration may still be the right choice.
It's important to differentiate between a CMS migration and a website redesign. A website redesign focuses on enhancing the visual appeal and engagement of the site, but a CMS migration entails a deeper consideration of website management's essential features, functionality, and context.
Through a CMS migration, you can improve the website's design and optimize its core functionalities and features, resulting in a better overall experience for both your site administrators and your users.
What To Consider Before Making a Migration
Your reasons for wanting to migrate should be clear, and you should seek a new CMS that solves those problems. A professional agency with experience in migrations can help guide you to choose the best CMS for you.
Before making a CMS migration, there are several key factors to consider, including:
Goals: Define what you want to achieve with the migration. Do you need better site performance, improved user experience, or enhanced security?
Content: Assess the quantity and quality of your existing content. Determine whether you want to migrate all content or just specific parts.
Functionality: Identify the essential features and functionalities that your website requires. Determine whether the new CMS can support these features or whether additional customization is necessary.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make a well-informed decision about whether to proceed with a CMS migration and how to plan for a successful migration.
How To Make a Migration Easier
1. Determine your Budget: Determine your budget for the migration. Consider the cost of the new CMS, any required customizations, and the cost of migration itself.
2. Decide on a timeline: Determine the desired timeframe for completing the migration. Establishing a realistic timeframe can help ensure a smooth transition while minimizing downtime.
3. Consult with a CMS Migration Project Manager: Strategy and content play a major role in a CMS migration, and experts can easily walk you through how to audit your content and how to create a realistic roadmap for the migration.