Content Migration
One of the biggest tasks when moving your site onto a Content Management System like Drupal or Concrete5 is migrating your data into the new database model. For small sites with static content, sometimes the most cost effective option is a manual migration. However, larger systems will need a more comprehensive plan.
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The migration method defines how a migration may be accomplished for different content types for each system. The migration methods may include one or more people manually migrating content or utilizing simple to complex migration tools to automate the migration effort. Manual MethodThe manual methods is as it sounds, one or more trained personnel copy and paste each data element from one system into another. The length of time required to migrate content from one system to another using the manual method depends on the complexity of the data element being migrated, the number of personnel involved, and how similar the two systems are. Manual with Simple Tools Method“Manual plus” includes using a set of tools to migrate portions of the data elements that may include relationships between elements such as topics, categories, and users. Migration personnel would review each record migrated against the existing system and correct mistakes while finishing any attributes or associations that could not be migrated. Automated MethodAutomated migration utilizes a complex set of tools to convert data from the legacy system into the Drupal system that requires a lot of time upfront to develop migration scripts, but little oversight during the migration process. The automated migration manages converting all data related to the data element and properly assigns each attribute and association. |
Swipht has a wealth of knowledge and experience in programmatically migrating content from one system to another. Swipht has migrated all kinds of systems, from multi-site installations to complex web applications. We'll analyze your existing data and devise the best way in which to migrate, by performing the following tasks:
Conversion Analysis
- First, we'll provide an analysis of multiple content types and data formats.
- Then, we will audit your data and media for complex file and data incompatibilities.
- We will also look for character set and bi-lingual conflicts that may be lurking in your databases.
The goal will always be a full programmatic migration of the system to include pages, page content, navigation and media. We will also explore the possibilities of migrating meta-data, revision history, roles, and users if available in the legacy system as well.
Solutions
- Swipht will provide business analysis documentation and data integrity solutions for any issues identified.
- We will then put together migration tool sets and custom development to move the content.
- We will also make sure all data is consolidated from two or more database systems into one or more as needed for your custom configuration.
Typically, a partial programmatic migration using in-house migration tool supported by a manual (user assisted) migration progress is the correct strategy. What level of detail will be carried over from the legacy system to the new system will dictate the level of effort required for the migration. We will choose the best method based on amount of changing content and suggestions from the team.
