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March 15, 2022
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March 15, 2022

Salesforce Classic to Lightning Migration: Major Challenges and Solutions

Salesforce has been the most successful Customer Relationship Management Platform across the globe. Salesforce introduced its Classic version in 2005 and has been the primary interface for over a decade. After all, with the growing demands of the users, Salesforce realized the need for an intuitive and customizable platform; it took a big leap by introducing Salesforce Lightning, which was first introduced in 2015.

Salesforce Lightning provides an advanced user experience enhanced by the latest technologies. Users benefit from faster loading pages, improved navigation, and better performance. Its responsive interface is built for intuitive use and personalized customization. This modern platform is tailored for optimal performance on all devices, especially mobile.

Salesforce Classic Interface, which has been around for over a decade, is still widely used by many organizations. Organizations are often faced with a plethora of challenges while making the transition from Salesforce Classic to Lightning. These issues may include technical complexities, user resistance, and inadequate training. Fortunately, although several potential obstacles can impede progress during this process, proper preparation and planning can help ensure a successful migration.

The purpose of this post is to explore the major challenges organizations face when migrating from Salesforce Classic to Lightning and provide solutions for overcoming these challenges.

Benefits of Migrating Salesforce Classic to Lightning:

Migrating from Salesforce Classic to Lightning offers several benefits, and a few of them are listed below.

  1. It provides a modern, intuitive, and streamlined user interface that hugely helps in improving user productivity and satisfaction.
  2. Lightning has advanced features like Kanban boards, component-based page layouts, and interactive dashboards to enhance data visualization and analysis capabilities.
  3. It allows users to access critical data and functionality on various devices.
  4. It provides enhanced customization capabilities without requiring complex coding.
  5. It offers users improved security features, enhanced authentication, and access control options.

Challenges involved in migrating Salesforce Classic to Lightning:

Organizations can face a considerable challenge when migrating Salesforce Classic to Lightning. Below are a few major challenges faced during the migration process. And we also included possible solutions for each challenge.

Customization Compatibility:

When transitioning from Salesforce Classic to Lightning, customizing one's system would be one of the top challenges. It is important to carefully review and evaluate all existing customizations, as not all components used in Classic can be seamlessly transferred over to Lightning. Depending on the quantity and complexity of customizations, organizations may have to devise new ones using the Lightning Design System or Aura Framework. Taking on this process requires adequate resources in terms of IT personnel, skilled consultants, and experienced business stakeholders working together to ensure a thorough acclimation plan that meets compatibility requirements with Lightning.

Solution:

Before making upgrades, a thorough review of existing customizations should be conducted to identify which components need to be updated or replaced. Utilizing Salesforce's Lightning Experience Transition Assistant tool can help identify potential issues and suggest appropriate solutions.

User Adoption:

Successfully migrating from Salesforce Classic to Lightning will require overcoming the user adoption challenge. Establishing a user-centric approach that considers the needs and preferences of all affected stakeholders is key to a successful migration; This includes providing effective training and support, such as offering educational sessions, creating user guides and documentation, and highlighting the advantages of using Lightning. Additionally, involving users in the process is essential by seeking their input through feedback and suggestions; This will help cultivate positive attitudes toward adoption and ultimately improve the overall user experience.

Solution:

Train users on the new interface, Lightning, and enable them to maximize its potential for improved productivity and user experience. Also, provide training sessions and practical tips so users can benefit from Lightning and make their day-to-day tasks easier and faster.

Data Migration:

Migrating user data from Salesforce Classic to Lightning presents multiple challenges. From differences in underlying data structures and layouts to changes in the user interface, customization complexity, and security considerations, addressing the complexity of the migration requires a well-thought-out approach. Planning helps avoid delays and misconfigurations, which could lead to data breaches or other complications. Additionally, users may need retraining to prepare themselves for Lightning's new abilities. Knowing what lies ahead gives organizations a better chance of successful execution and a smoother transition into their new environment.

Solution:

It is essential to create a data migration plan that is thorough and reliable; This includes identifying and resolving any outdated or duplicate data, testing the migration process with a practice environment, and engaging the IT team or an experienced Salesforce consultant for further support. Doing so guarantees a smooth transition of your data.

Compatibility with third-party integrations:

Organizations that depend largely on third-party applications integrating with Salesforce to streamline their processes must thoroughly evaluate their compatibility when migrating to Lightning; This avoids functionality issues, data inconsistencies, or even data loss. An assessment should be done before the migration, and all third-party integration providers should be contacted for any necessary updates or modifications to ensure a successful transition. If left unaddressed, these compatibility gaps could create considerable and costly problems down the line. Accordingly, it is key that organizations fully assess their integrations’ readiness before attempting a move to Lightning.

Solution:

As part of the Lightning implementation process, you must review the compatibility of all third-party integrations with the new system. When necessary, work with vendors or a Salesforce consultant to ensure these integrations are updated or properly replaced before launch.

Visualforce Pages and Custom Lightning Components:

Migrating from Classic to Lightning requires an experienced evaluation and careful planning. Visualforce pages and custom Lightning components may require re-engineering due to the underlying technology differences or changes in the user interface. Additionally, some customizations may not be necessary for the Lightning Experience. Thus they need to be carefully evaluated. Both the classic and Lightning technologies must be considered, as well as the needs of each organization’s users. Furthermore, retraining or new support resources should be provided for those accustomed to using the legacy interface.

Solution:

An analysis is required for all existing Visualforce pages and Lightning components to determine which ones require updates or replacements. To create new suggestions, Salesforce's Lightning Design System and Aura Framework should be taken into account; This will ensure that pages and components conform to the new modern standards.

Cost and time:

Migrating to Lightning is best approached with a structured, well-thought-out plan. Organizations must consider the associated costs and benefits to maximize the chance of success; This may involve consulting services, data migration, development time, training sessions, or hardware upgrades - plus additional licenses if necessary. Companies also need to prioritize chosen features and customizations according to their importance to the business and available resources. Carefully evaluating all relevant factors, followed by a thorough plan and budget, will ensure optimal results.

Solution:

Create a budget and timeline that delineates the resources needed, such as IT staff, consultants, and training for the project migration. Prioritize the most important customizations and data for migration to reduce costs and speed up the process.

Final Words:

As discussed earlier, Salesforce Classic to Lightning Migration carries significant advantages, yet it is a big undertaking that can be complicated for businesses. Challenges include user adoption, data migration, and integration. When executed properly, though, the move brings the expanded functions of Lightning and its complete set of features. Careful planning and judicious implementation are key to successful transition and risk limitation - with a good approach, migration to Lightning can be made seamless, which realizes all associated rewards.

Considering a Certified Salesforce Consultant is an excellent choice for migrating from Salesforce Classic to Lightning. They can assess the current system, create a custom migration plan, and guide best practices. Furthermore, they offer training and support to ensure employees can easily use the new system. With their expertise, you save time and money while minimizing risk during transition. Hiring a Consultant is a great option that provides cost-effective results.

Minuscule Technologies is a Certified Salesforce Service Provider with nearly a decade of experience in end-to-end Salesforce implementation services. Our unique approach ensures you get the best results. Our highly skilled team members offer comprehensive consulting services for all Salesforce-related requirements ensuring a perfect fit for your organization's needs. Reach out to us today to learn more!

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