Learn With Us – Migrating to SharePoint Using Only Microsoft Available Tools
At WesternIM’s latest “Learn With Us” session, Director of Development Troy Sawyer walked IT professionals, project managers, and business owners through a step-by-step approach to migrating to SharePoint using Microsoft’s native tools: OneDrive Sync and the SharePoint Migration Tool. This method offers a straightforward, cost-effective pathway for small to medium-sized organizations moving data to the cloud.
Understanding the Tools and Process
The session provided an in-depth demonstration on utilizing OneDrive Sync for basic migrations and leveraging the SharePoint Admin Center’s Migration Tool for more complex scenarios. Troy guided attendees through best practices, like syncing shared drives to SharePoint and demonstrating how smaller organizations can maintain their operations without complex migrations. This session addressed essential steps, including folder structure maintenance, initial setup, and tool limitations, to support users in successfully implementing SharePoint without a costly overhaul.
Limitations and Challenges
Despite the strengths of Microsoft’s built-in tools, Troy highlighted some inherent limitations. While the tools work well for small migrations, large-scale data transfers can present issues. The OneDrive Sync tool, while convenient, struggles with complex folder structures and deep hierarchies, potentially leading to synchronization issues. Additionally, the webinar explored the SharePoint Migration Tool’s inability to retain certain metadata and permissions during migration. For example, user data such as original file creators may not transfer accurately, which could be an important factor for records management teams.
When to Consider Additional Solutions
The webinar emphasized that while Microsoft’s tools are a great starting point, some scenarios might require more robust solutions. Troy likened this migration process to “moving from an old house to a new one,” highlighting that organizations don’t necessarily need to bring all historical content into SharePoint without cleanup. Strategic decisions, such as excluding outdated or unnecessary files, organizing content with metadata, or implementing deduplication, can improve the efficiency and functionality of a SharePoint site post-migration.
Why Migrate to SharePoint?
For many small and mid-sized businesses, migrating to SharePoint provides the benefits of improved accessibility, collaboration, and cloud storage. With SharePoint’s potential for workflow automation and modular site configuration, organizations can reduce the risks associated with siloed content and gain better control over document access and retention.
Looking Ahead
This session was not only practical but offered valuable insight into cost-effective strategies for SharePoint migrations. WesternIM’s next “Learn With Us” webinar will feature Daryl Schroeder, who will explore the role of AI in records management—a fitting follow-up as more organizations look to integrate advanced technologies into their digital transformations.
Stay tuned for future sessions to continue your journey toward efficient information management. For more on upcoming webinars and services, visit WesternIM’s event page.