Migration from legacy CMS: Move to Next.js, Astro, Strapi or WordPress

Smooth Migration Process

Our migration process is designed to be as seamless as possible, integrating new solutions under the existing structure of your website. This method allows for gradual phasing out of old code, minimising business disruptions and maintaining continuity for your users.

Overview of Data Migration Strategies

We ensure that data from your website’s old databases is meticulously transferred to new databases using direct migration methods. If direct migration is not possible, we use technological solutions to parse structural data directly from the website. In cases where data is well organised, unique, and has a logical DOM structure, we can also perform manual data transfers, preparing them for import into modern CMS systems (such as Strapi or WordPress), which will then power dynamic frontends built with technologies like Next.js or Astro.

Direct Database Migration

This preferred method involves transferring data directly from your website’s old database to the new database. While this approach is fast and efficient, preserving data integrity, it can also involve complex transfers where data restructuring is necessary to match the new CMS (e.g. Strapi or WordPress). This may require modifying data schemas or transforming formats to ensure compatibility and functionality in the new system.

Parsing Structural Data from the Website

If direct database migration is not feasible, perhaps due to compatibility issues or access restrictions, we move to extracting data directly from the website. This process involves parsing structural data from web pages with repetitive and consistent DOM structures. We use automated scripts or tools to systematically read and extract this data, which is especially valuable when direct database access is limited or unavailable.

Manual Data Transfers

When a website does not have a repetitive or consistent DOM structure, manual data transfer may be required. This labor-intensive method involves manually selecting and moving data to ensure accuracy and integrity, especially when automated methods could compromise detail or context. Manual transfer is essential for handling complex data layouts or when specific, valuable data must be meticulously preserved.

Handling Unsupported CMS Systems

In cases of CMS platforms that do not support smooth migration, such as proprietary systems, we can divide your website’s content into manageable segments. These segments, such as blog posts, catalogues, or e-commerce platforms, can then be individually migrated to subdomains within a structured migration strategy, preparing the ground for a modern frontend, e.g. based on Next.js or Astro.

Partial Migration Development

We offer the development of partial migrations where practical and technically feasible. Platforms like Shopify allow frontend connections through APIs, and we can also develop custom API services to connect new frontends (e.g. built with Next.js or Astro) to old CMS systems. This approach is particularly beneficial for systems with extensive internal infrastructure, such as CRM systems or other auxiliary APIs, ensuring smooth business operations after migration.

SEO Considerations During Migration

During the migration process, website structure often changes, which may potentially affect search rankings. To mitigate this, we implement proper redirects from old pages to new ones, ensuring no loss of site visibility and preventing users from encountering 404 errors. This approach helps maintain the SEO value of old URLs.

We pay special attention to website SEO structure. We ensure correct implementation of essential SEO elements such as Title tags, Meta Descriptions, and image alt attributes. In addition, we integrate structured data using standards such as Open Graph and Schema.org to improve visibility and context of pages in search results. For different types of pages – whether blog posts, service pages, product pages, or personal profiles – we use Schema.org to clearly communicate the purpose of each page to search engines, including elements such as reviews.

Additionally, for local businesses, we implement Schema.org LocalBusiness markup to provide key company information and its geographical service area, further optimising the website for local SEO.

Client Involvement and Strategy Development

Our migration process begins with a comprehensive consultation to understand your specific needs. We then dive into the structure of your existing website to develop a tailored action plan, prioritising critical issues first and gradually addressing less urgent ones.

Long-Term Support and Technology Stack Flexibility

Our solutions leverage modern technologies such as Strapi, Next.js, Astro, TypeScript, and JavaScript, ensuring long-term support and scalability. When necessary, we are also open to considering other technology stacks to achieve optimal results tailored to your needs, including proven systems such as headless WordPress.

Summary

Migration to modern solutions such as WordPress or Strapi as a backend, combined with frontends built on Next.js or Astro, not only strengthens your online presence but also positions your digital operations for future growth and innovation. Contact us today to get a detailed plan for transforming your web applications with our state-of-the-art solutions.