Image source : Sitecore official
Sitecore is one of the leading CMS platforms of recent times. The company is continuously upgrading this tool’s features and functionalities along with the incorporation of modern technologies. However, the Sitecore upgrade from 8.2 to 10 is not compatible with the older versions after the expiry date. Users must always upgrade the product with the new version for accessing upgrades and packages.
Why Is A Sitecore Upgrade Necessary?
- Working with the existing site.
- Identification of current site core module.
- Determining Sitecore customization options like events, commands pipelines, and schedule jobs.
- Defining third-party integrations with DAM integration and CRM integration.
- Recognizing third-party libraries in the program.
- Identifying Sitecore libraries for hot fixing.
- Recognizing outdated services any Sitecore API.
- Identifying the functions of DMS uses and marketing.
Identification of Alternatives That Are Compatible With New Sites for Versions
- Utilizing modules that are compatible with the new Sitecore version.
- Ensuring that third-party libraries and NuGet packages are compatible with the new version.
- Always ensure that hot fixes in the current version are according to the requirements of the new version.
- Always check for alternative features and compatible versions of marketing features.
Understanding the Infrastructural Requirements of Latest Sitecore Version
- Operating system windows 10, windows 2016 sp1, or windows 2014 SP2
- Dot net framework 4.7.2
- Microsoft SQL Server 2014 SP2, Microsoft Azure SQL, SQL Server 2014 sp1.
- IIS10
- Visual Studio 2017
Upgrading the Sitecore Environment as Necessary
New versions of offsite core are compatible with QA, Dev, Prod, and UAT.
Steps to Upgrade Sitecore
Following are the main steps involved in upgrading Sitecore
- Upgrading the existing infrastructure.
- Upgrading Sitecore DB.
- Installation of the upgrade package.
- Upgrading the Sitecore solution.
- Upgrading Sitecore module.
- Migration of form data and xDB data.
Steps for Sitecore Upgrade in Developer Environment
- Upgrading the current infrastructural entities.
- Creating a backup of existing site code instances.
- Downloading and upgrading package files using Sitecore upgrade service.
- Creating a new branch for the source control repository.
- Developing Sitecore instances and production DB.
- Upgrading the Sitecore database.
- Installation of Sitecore packages.
- Follow steps as mentioned in the Sitecore upgrade manual.
- Restore the database after the new upgrade.
- Upgrade the .Net framework for current projects.
- Replace outdated API.
- Update site core module.
- Make changes to the configuration files and folder.
- Clear cache and publish the entire site.
- Enter data and rebuild the indexing.
- Migrate xDB data with the migration tool.
- Validate the new instance for features and functionalities.
- Run the installer 2-3 times to check for hidden glitches.
Considerations for Sitecore Upgrade in Higher Environment
After successful completion of the update on the development environment, the following steps are necessary
- The latest site for the project is available in a different code branch.
- Follow exact methods for running a new version of Sitecore on higher investments.
- For the migration of form data and exhibit, data follow exact steps.
Challenges of Sitecore upgrade
- Unavailability of compatible Sitecore marketplace module.
- Integration of third-party libraries does not require the latest version of.net framework.
- Fixing issues related to outdated API and services.
- Executing Sitecore upgrade with zero downtime.
Benefits of Sitecore upgrade
Facilitates faster development and deployment of the new environment
Sitecore 9 is completely based on a microservice architecture. As a result, it requires a higher number of services with more configuration restrictions. The latest edition of Sitecore is compatible with the cloud, which enhances its flexibility in complex environments.
JavaScript compatible
Sitecore 9.1 is compatible with headless JavaScript and is popularly known as Sitecore JavaScript services. However, the technology is still in its initial stages and requires sufficient .NET expertise. It comes with a host of powerful functionalities and personalization options for both online and offline channels.
Improve the data collection methods
Sitecore upgrade to 10 supports omnichannel data integration. Businesses use multiple CRM tools and APIs, but proper customer data collection requires suitable forms. Sitecore 9 replaces conventional market forms with Sitecore forms that feature a highly interactive drag and drop interface.
Data collection from multiple resources
With the launch of Sitecore X-connect, users can interchange information between Sitecore and other CRM tools. The new set of API offers a series of personalization options and channels for interacting with customers. It provides a complete platform for managing all aspects of a business.
The first thing to consider before upgrading Sitecore services is to have a sequential approach. The Sitecore upgrade service includes a series of testing and bug fixing. Sitecore upgrade to the latest version is a long process. Alternatively, users can start with a new instance and use Sitecore helix principles as per the latest development practices. The most effective way of accessing modern site features is migrating the system rather than upgrading.
