How to change from a classic SharePoint site to a Modern SharePoint site?

Migrating from a classic SharePoint site to a modern SharePoint site involves a few steps to ensure a smooth transition. Modern SharePoint sites offer a more responsive and user-friendly experience with enhanced features. Here’s a general guide on how to make this transition:

  1. Assessment and Planning:
    • Evaluate your current classic SharePoint site’s structure, content, and customizations. Identify which elements can be directly migrated to the modern site and which might need adjustments.
    • Understand the differences between classic and modern SharePoint sites in terms of features, layout, and capabilities.
  2. Content Backup:
    • Before making any changes, it’s crucial to back up all your content, including documents, lists, libraries, and pages.
  3. Create a Modern Site:
    • Create a new modern SharePoint site where you plan to migrate the content.
    • Depending on your needs, you can choose from communication sites or team sites, both of which are modern SharePoint site types.
  4. Content Migration:
    • Migrate your content from the classic site to the modern site. There are various ways to achieve this, depending on your resources and needs:
      • Manual Migration: Copy and paste content from the classic site to the modern site. This is suitable for smaller sites with minimal content.
      • Third-Party Migration Tools: Consider using third-party migration tools that specialize in SharePoint migrations. They can automate and streamline the process for larger sites.
      • PowerShell Scripts: If you’re comfortable with PowerShell, you can use SharePoint Online PowerShell cmdlets to migrate content programmatically.
  5. Recreate Pages and Customizations:
    • Modern SharePoint sites have a different page structure and layout than classic sites. Recreate or redesign pages on the modern site using modern web parts, layouts, and design options.
    • Evaluate your customizations (such as web parts, scripts, or solutions) from the classic site. Some might need to be adapted or replaced with modern equivalents.
  6. Adjust Navigation and Branding:
    • Update navigation menus to match the modern site’s structure.
    • Apply branding and theming to maintain a consistent look and feel across the modern site.
  7. Test and Validate:
    • Thoroughly test the modern site to ensure that all content and functionalities have been successfully migrated and recreated.
    • Involve stakeholders and users in the testing process to identify any issues or improvements.
  8. Training and Communication:
    • Communicate the change to your users, providing them with training or resources to help them navigate the new modern site effectively.
  9. Monitor and Iterate:
    • Keep an eye on user feedback and monitor the site’s performance after migration.
    • Continuously iterate and make improvements based on user experiences and evolving needs.

Remember that each SharePoint migration can be unique based on factors such as the complexity of your content, customizations, and the tools you have at your disposal. It’s essential to plan carefully and involve stakeholders to ensure a successful migration.

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