Drupal 8 comprises remarkable features including greater flexibility, fast loading speed, and scalability, which turns out to be a remarkable CMS for website development. It has grabbed the attention of enterprises and they are migrating to this powerful CMS. Drupal 8 migration is not an easy task to perform if not executed properly As several complications regarding data migration and module shift occurs. A perfect approach to lower the troubles is to prepare in advance. If you hire Drupal developer, the migration process will be simple, they will help you move in the right direction.
In this blog, the important tips regarding migration and its advantages are discussed. The benefits are present by default as it is built with new technologies including Symfony and Twig. Apart from being a secure and flexible CMS, it is projected as a far more scalable version.
Tips For Smooth Drupal Migration Process
- Environment Set Up
The first and foremost activity is to make a backup of the live website. Never perform any migration activity on a live site, as it is not safe a practice to do so. If something goes unexpected, you’ll not have to panic as backup is always present. Simply go back to the earlier version and find out what went wrong.
- Get Your Basics Right
Remember, it is a complicated approach. Hence, it is crucial to involve the Drupal development company right from scratch. They will provide better assistance, to finish the migration hassle-free. They are proficient and expert in the upgrade process to perform everything smoothly as planned.
- Identify The Core Modules
Have knowledge of how your website is built, and this should cover details of the exact inventory of the implemented Drupal modules. Go to Administer > Site building > Modules, for the details. These updates may come in handy in the later stages of the migration process.
Advantages of Drupal 8 Migration
- New Website Theme
With Drupal 8 migration, your website theme will get a complete makeover. Your website will appear completely different after the migration from the way it appears earlier. The major reason for such a change is that the old website is based on a different theme. A majority of Drupal websites are not responsive as it was not in the craze. However, with Drupal 8 migration, the website becomes responsive too.
- PHP Native OOPS Features
Drupal is an Object-Oriented Paradigm (OOPS) based CMS. It is a relevant feature included within the design system to make the web development work best in class. Drupal 8 version focuses more on the OOPS features by giving more importance to the PHP. There are numerous constructs in Drupal that are referred to as “objects.” Some of the more recognized components that can be measured as objects are modules, nodes, themes, and users.
- Updated Architecture
Migrating to the latest architecture will improve the productivity to build more innovative web applications. Though it seems a difficult task, it is the perfect opportunity to update the information architecture crafted earlier. This update in the information architecture is a big asset for the Drupal 8 development. It gives features to audit the fields and modules to streamline the development task. The update does not make the older version useless. It basically means, the older version is duplicated into Drupal 8 and then fixes are done as per the new requirements.
- Mobile-Friendly Web Applications
The Drupal websites that are not mobile responsive lacks popularity among users. Drupal 6 and Drupal 7 versions were designed mostly to support desktop websites. However, Drupal 8 comes with a mobile responsive feature as it is largely implemented with a mobile-first technique. Most of the users nowadays prefer mobile gadgets to open websites and perform day to day tasks. Drupal 8 is not only a bonus for the developers but also for brands looking to expand the business. The UI & UX design must be perfect for a mobile user’s needs. The themes are also selected in relation to the mobile-responsiveness of the website.
- Faster & Better Performance
With the introduction of a new cache feature in Drupal 8, the page loading is quite faster than earlier versions. With the cache tags, each section of the page is cached separately within the database making fast loading of the page. This works perfectly with content delivery networks (CDNs) for removing the pages when content gets changed. Drupal 8 provides a strong base to firms for delivering better web, mobile, and social experiences to the end-users.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I migrate to Drupal?
To start the migration:
- First, download the files to your desktop.
- Upload the files to your new server.
- Next export your old database.
- You’ll need to export your database like SQL.
- Import to the New Database.
- Select the file that you exported and tap “Go” to import it into the new database.
2. How do I backup my Drupal site?
- Sign in to PHPMyAdmin.
- Choose your database from the dropdown button on the left.
- Click the “Export” tab.
- Click “select all”
- Click the “structure” and “data” checkboxes.
- Checkmark “Save as File” desktop.
- Click the “Go” button and save the .sql file to your desktop.
3. How long will Drupal 7 be supported?
Drupal 7 will be supported until November 2021
4. How often does Drupal update?
Usually, Drupal updates are released once in a month but when any case of security vulnerability an immediate release is done. Make sure to enable the update status module and check for new releases every week.
Conclusion:
Most updates and upgrades offer multiple advantages. But, Drupal migration is always a challenge for website owners as there are several concerns of data loss and bad customer experience, particularly, during the migration process. Hence, it becomes crucial for the application owners to first find the needs and benefits, as well as challenges, before the migration process. An upgrade will no longer be a choice but it will be advantageous since its a complete revolution. If you are looking for quality Drupal migration services, look for a reputed web development company having expertise in migration, development and customization work.
