Migrating content from SharePoint 2007 to SharePoint 2013 can pose some challenges. Here is a list of challenges you may face when migrating from SharePoint 2007.
Switching from 32 bit to 64 bit environment
SharePoint 2007 was used in a 32 bit environment whereas the new SharePoint 2013 works in a 64 bit environment. Hence you have to ensure that the new SharePoint 2013 environment will accept the 2007 features and services. Without this critical factor, migration will be considered partially successful.
Adapting the 2007 Site Content to the new 2013 architecture
There are several new features in SharePoint 2013 that help with better search and management of the SharePoint content. Hence whatever content is imported into SharePoint 2013 will have to be updated to meet the requirements of these new features. Features like Managed Metadata, SharePoint Service Applications, the new Workflow, the Office Web App servers, the new Search Engine, etc. will help better utilize the 2007 content in 2013 provided it’s updated immediately after the migration. All these have to be planned before the migration actually begins.
Creating content batches for migration
Prior to migrating the Site Collections, Assets, Permissions, Lists, Documents, everything should be segregated into proper batches to ensure a reliable migration. Batches reduce the chances of loss of content during migration and also help in migrating content during off peak hours when database restrictions can be easily imposed. Prior to this the database has to be upgraded using the Database Attachment method which also has to be done carefully.
Accommodating customization in the new SharePoint 2013 Site Collections
For user friendliness and better business proficiency SharePoint is usually customized to comply with requirements of business, security policies, information exchange policies and user comfort. Whatever customizations exist in SharePoint 2007 has to be recreated or improved upon using the capabilities in SharePoint 2013. These also need to be planned before migration.
Matching Content Types for efficient migration
The migrated SharePoint 2007 Content Types and their hierarchy will have to be matched with the 2013 Content Type hierarchy for the imported content to work properly. An imperfect match can lead to unavailability of some of the imported content.
The lack of direct content migration option
It may not be possible to migrate SharePoint 2007 content directly to SharePoint 2013. You may be required to upgrade the Farm to 2010 and migrate from there. The use of third party tools can quicken this process considerably.
Overcoming these challenges will take time, planning and a great deal of effort. But third party tools like vyapin’s SharePoint to SharePoint Migration tool – XPlica can help you out of this situation by providing customized solutions to your migration needs.
