System migrations may seem overly complicated at first, but if you take some time to segment the process and create a smart strategy, it can all be done in a much simpler way. If you feel like it’s time for your business to switch from one system to another, take a look at the following six steps and get all the information you need in order to conduct a smooth migration.
Get Expert Help
A lack of knowledge is usually the greatest enemy of every business migration since it can have a negative impact on both resilience and security if conducted poorly. That is why you should pinpoint your weakest areas and hire experts who can help you automate the processes without friction. Even if you’re absolutely sure your team can successfully handle all the components, you should at least consult legal experts. In doing so, you will be rest assured everything you are doing is in accordance with the law. Whether it’s system migration or relocating entire businesses to Australia or any other country, the majority of people do their best to find a great team of lawyers who can help them avoid legal issues.
Clean Up the Files
Before you begin the migration, put some effort into minimizing the amount of data that will have to be moved. If your current system still holds outdated documents that no longer serve any purpose, delete them and reduce the amount of storage space your company will need. In fact, you can even save money on new software since many of them charge higher fees for large storage. Also, if some documents need to be updated, it is more efficient to do so before the new system is launched because you already know the current one inside and out.
Back Up Your Data
Once the files are all set, you are ready to do a backup to keep them safe. Migration is a large undertaking on its own, and the last thing you want to go through is having to recreate all the documents in case something goes wrong. Losing the files can setback the entire operation for weeks and therefore, having a good backup plan will save you from such trouble.
Design the Process
Creating a clear plan on how you want to conduct the migration will lead you through a smooth process with very little room for errors. Essentially, there are two main types to choose between: trickle or big bang migration. While trickle migration implies separating the data and transferring it in small groups, the big bang option suggests transferring all the files simultaneously. The end choice will depend on your team’s capacity, as well as the server you will use to migrate the system. Moreover, this is the point where you should also decide on the security plans adequate for your data, as well as the timeline of the entire procedure.
Test
Before you go live with the new system, take some time to test all of its functionalities. First and foremost, you need to make sure that all the documents have been transferred safely. After that, inspect whether each automation is set up correctly, with all the components running smoothly in the right order, at the right time. Lastly, check whether all the client-facing aspects correspond to the standards of your business. The new system needs to be able to maintain the existing quality of user experience, as well as the professional appearance of your company.
Set an Adoption Deadline
Finally, avoid going through such a large process without explaining all the benefits to your team, as well as defining a reasonable timeframe for them to adjust to the new system. Your staff will need some time to get to know the platform and to figure out how it can help them perform in a better way. Be gentle when it comes to the initial adoption of the software, but also set a hard deadline when it comes to full transition.
Reaching the point where your business needs more advanced software in order to thrive is amazing, and now that you’re aware of all the key points of the process, you are ready to go through a stress-free migration.
