Best Way to Migrate to New Custom Software
By SOLTECH
So, you’ve gotten your new software created – awesome! It’s exactly what your business needed and you’re excited to start using the new platform. Wait just a second. Do you just start using the new software and hope that it magically has all the information from the old? Unfortunately, no. At SOLTECH we’re often asked what the best ways are to migrate to the new custom software, and we understand why. It can be overwhelming and confusing, but not to worry. Best practices for migrating to new software are:
Define what you’re migrating
Take an inventory of any information, workflows, or documents that need to make their way to the new software. Then, make a note of where each item should live in the new system. This will help prevent lost or forgotten data.
Take out the trash
As you’re taking inventory of data, ask yourself if you need to keep it in the new software. If you come across outdated, useless items, throw them out. Start your new software experience with a clean slate.
Set realistic expectations
After data is combed through and ready to be migrated, you have to consider how to migrate. Using a method called the big bang, all data will be sent from the legacy system to the new software as one big package. Or, if you have more time, you may choose to send it in batches. There are pros and cons to each method and they should be seriously considered with everyone on your team.
Adjustment period
One major pro to sending data in small batches is the ability to put the loose piece back together in the new system a little at a time. No matter how organized your data is, there will always be a few rouge pieces. And, after the migration is complete, it’s up to you to find them and put them back. Take the time to have your team explore their areas of the system and note any missing data.
Breathe easy. You’re done!
After you’ve successfully migrated all data to your new custom software, you will start to see the payoff. Your new system should be easier to use and more efficient, making your workday a breeze.
Data migration can be a pain. It’s a slow moving, meticulous project, but with the right planning and expectations, your company can do it, too.
For 19 years, SOLTECH has moved companies of all sizes off legacy systems and onto a new, custom solution, tailor-made just for them. If you’re looking to trade in your old system for something new, reach out to us. Or, if you need advice on how to successfully migrate your data, we’re happy to help! We’d love to hear from you.
