How To Convert A Classic Sharepoint Site To Modern?

If you are a Sharepoint user, you know it can be hard to keep up with the latest updates to the software. But keeping up with the latest version of Sharepoint is important in order to get the most out of the product. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to convert a classic Sharepoint site to the modern version. We will also discuss the benefits of making the switch and the potential challenges you may face along the way. So, if you are looking for an effective way to improve your Sharepoint experience, read on!

How to Convert a Classic Sharepoint Site to Modern?

SharePoint is a powerful collaboration platform for business, and its modern site design has made it easier and more efficient to use. However, many organizations are still using the classic SharePoint site design. This article will provide a step by step guide on how to convert a classic SharePoint site to a modern design.

Step 1: Backup Your Classic SharePoint Site

Before you start making any changes to your classic SharePoint site, it is important to make sure you have a backup of the site. This is to ensure that if something goes wrong during the conversion process, you can restore the original version of the site. To do this, use the PowerShell cmdlet Backup-SPsite to create a backup of the site.

Step 2: Convert Classic SharePoint Site to Modern

Once you have backed up the classic SharePoint site, it is time to convert the site to a modern design. To do this, you will need to use the PowerShell cmdlet ConvertTo-SPWebApplication. This cmdlet will convert the classic SharePoint site to the modern design. You can also specify additional parameters such as the site’s theme and the navigation structure.

Step 3: Update the Site Design

Once the classic SharePoint site has been converted to the modern design, you will need to update the design of the site. This includes updating the site’s layout, colors, and fonts. You can do this by using the Site Settings menu in the SharePoint admin center.

Step 4: Update the Site Navigation

Once the design of the site has been updated, you can then start to update the site navigation. This includes adding new pages, updating existing pages, and reorganizing the navigation structure. To do this, you can use the Navigation Settings menu in the SharePoint admin center.

Step 5: Update the Site Content

Once the navigation structure has been updated, you can then start to update the content of the site. This includes updating existing pages, adding new pages, and adding new content types. To do this, you can use the Content and Structure menu in the SharePoint admin center.

Step 6: Update the Site Permissions

Once the content of the site has been updated, you can then start to update the permissions of the site. This includes updating existing user and group permissions and adding new user and group permissions. To do this, you can use the Permissions menu in the SharePoint admin center.

Step 7: Update the Site Features

Once the permissions of the site have been updated, you can then start to update the features of the site. This includes adding new features, updating existing features, and enabling or disabling features. To do this, you can use the Features menu in the SharePoint admin center.

Step 8: Test the Site

Once all of the changes have been made to the site, it is important to test the site to make sure that everything is working as expected. This includes testing the functionality of each page, testing the navigation structure, testing the permissions, and testing the features.

Step 9: Publish the Site

Once the site has been tested, it is time to publish the site. This will make the site available to the public. To do this, you can use the Publish button in the SharePoint admin center.

Step 10: Monitor the Site

Once the site has been published, it is important to monitor the site to make sure that everything is working as expected. This includes monitoring the performance of the site, monitoring the user activity on the site, and monitoring the security of the site.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Classic Sharepoint Site?

A classic Sharepoint site is an older type of Sharepoint site that Microsoft has been phasing out in favor of the modern Sharepoint experience. Classic Sharepoint sites are based on the classic templates that have been around since Sharepoint 2007 and offer more limited functionality than modern Sharepoint sites. Classic Sharepoint sites are still supported by Microsoft but are not recommended for use in new projects.

How Do I Convert a Classic Sharepoint Site to Modern?

The process of converting a classic Sharepoint site to modern is relatively straightforward. First, you will need to ensure that your classic Sharepoint site is running the latest version of Sharepoint (this can be done by using PowerShell or the SharePoint Central Administration website). Once your site is up to date, you can begin the process of upgrading it to the modern experience. This involves choosing the modern template for your site, as well as configuring other modern features such as navigation, list views, and web parts. Finally, you will need to test the site and make any necessary adjustments before publishing the modern version of your site.

Can I Convert an Existing Site to Modern?

Yes, you can convert an existing classic Sharepoint site to modern. The process for doing so is similar to the process for creating a new modern Sharepoint site. You will need to ensure that your classic Sharepoint site is running the latest version of Sharepoint before beginning the conversion process. Once your site is up to date, you can begin the process of upgrading it to the modern experience. This involves choosing the modern template for your site, as well as configuring other modern features such as navigation, list views, and web parts. Finally, you will need to test the site and make any necessary adjustments before publishing the modern version of your site.

What Are the Benefits of Converting to Modern?

Converting a classic Sharepoint site to modern provides many benefits. The modern experience offers a more intuitive user experience, with an interface that is optimized for mobile devices. Additionally, modern Sharepoint sites offer improved performance, with faster loading times and enhanced security. Additionally, modern sites provide users with a more flexible environment, with improved customization options, enhanced web parts and connectors, and support for modern technologies such as Power Apps and Flow.

What Are the Drawbacks of Converting to Modern?

Although there are many benefits to converting a classic Sharepoint site to modern, there are also some drawbacks. For example, the conversion process can be time-consuming and require the involvement of IT staff or a third-party consultant. Additionally, the modern experience may not be suitable for all users, as some may find the new interface confusing or difficult to use. Finally, the conversion process can result in some data loss, as some data and features may not be compatible with the modern experience.

In conclusion, converting a classic SharePoint site to modern is a process that requires careful planning and consideration. It can be a time-consuming task, but the rewards are worth it. By taking the time to evaluate the current site, plan the new site, and migrate the data, you can ensure a successful transition to a modern SharePoint site. With the right guidance and tools, you can make this process easy and efficient.