Data
Data Migration Planning: A Checklist for Moving to a New System
The steps that separate a smooth system change from a stressful one — from profiling to post-migration verification.
By CodeNest.CA Team 2 min read
Moving to a new CRM, ERP, or custom application is an opportunity to start with better data — if the migration is planned carefully.
Before the migration
- Inventory every data source, including unofficial spreadsheets
- Profile data quality: duplicates, blanks, inconsistent formats
- Decide what to migrate, archive, or leave behind
- Create a field-by-field mapping document
- Agree on de-duplication and cleaning rules
During the migration
- Run trial migrations into a test environment
- Validate results against business rules
- Reconcile record counts and key totals
- Have users spot-check familiar records
- Take full backups before the final cut-over
After the migration
Verify that reports produce expected results, monitor for data issues reported by users, and securely delete temporary copies of data that are no longer needed. Keep the old system read-only for a defined period if possible.
Protect personal information
Limit access to migration data, encrypt it in transit, and avoid unnecessary copies. Your privacy obligations continue throughout the migration process.