Migrating content from one SharePoint tenant to another is not as simple as it sounds. If your organization is going through a merger, acquisition, or simply restructuring departments, migrating data between tenants in SharePoint Online can be a complex and time-consuming process. With multiple site collections, libraries, user permissions, metadata, and shared resources involved, a simple copy-paste method is not sufficient.
So, how do you make sure a smooth and secure SharePoint to SharePoint migration without disrupting daily operations or losing valuable data?
Here, in this guide, we will discuss how to simplify SharePoint to SharePoint migration across tenants with clarity, planning, and the right tools.
What are the Challenges with Tenant-to-Tenant Migration?
It’s easy to migrate data within the same tenant, however when it comes to cross-tenant migration, things get challenging. Here’s why:
Separate Admin Centers: Each Microsoft 365 tenant operates independently. You can’t just log into one and access content from the other.
User Mapping Confusion: Users in Tenant A might not have the same user names or roles in Tenant B. This complicates permission mapping.
Permissions and Sharing Settings: SharePoint has granular sharing and permission controls. Retaining those accurately in the new tenant requires careful handling.
Custom Workflows and Integrations: Sites often have Power Automate flows, forms, or integrations with Teams or OneDrive. Reconfiguring this post-migration can be a tedious task.
Downtime Risks: Improper planning can result in downtime or inaccessible data, which directly impacts productivity.
Create Effective SharePoint Migration Plan
Before you migrate a single byte of data, make sure to have a proper SharePoint migration strategy. This includes:
Inventory Assessment: Understand what data needs to be migrated, such as sites, document libraries, lists, permissions, web parts, workflows, etc.
User Mapping Strategy: Map users from the source tenant to the destination tenant to preserve permissions and ownerships.
Communication: Inform all the stakeholders about migration. End users should be aware of possible downtime and the scope of migration.
Testing: Always run a pilot migration. It helps in identifying roadblocks during migration and allows you to simplify the process before moving large volumes of data.
Manual Method for SharePoint Migration
Microsoft does not provide a built-in tool to migrate SharePoint Online data across tenants. The manual process includes downloading files from the source tenant and uploading them to the destination. However, this leads to:
- Loss of metadata
- Loss of version history
- Incomplete or broken links
- No automation
- Time-consuming process
Some administrators try to use PowerShell scripts for automation, but if you are not a scripting expert, this can create more problems than it solves.
Why You Need a SharePoint Migration Tool
This is where third-party tools become important. Using a SharePoint to SharePoint migration tool eliminates many of the manual methods challenges. These tools easily perform file transfer, while preserving metadata, permission structures, document versions, and more.
Among various tools available, one solution that consistently stands out is Kernel Migration for SharePoint. This software is designed to make complex SharePoint migrations simple, even across tenants. With its user-friendly interface, you don’t need to be a PowerShell expert or migration specialist to use it effectively. The software is built for IT admins who want secure and effortless SharePoint migration without complexity.
Best Practices for Simplified SharePoint to SharePoint Migration
Even with a robust tool, your approach matters. Here are a few quick best practices to follow:
Perform a Pre-Migration Check: Use the tool’s scan options to identify problematic files or settings.
Avoid Large-Scale Migration in One Go: Migrate in phases if possible. This makes troubleshooting easier.
Verify Post-Migration Data: Always validate that all content, permissions, and workflows function as intended in the new tenant.
Train Users on New Site Structure: If the layout or access structure changes, guide users on how to navigate the new setup.
Conclusion
I hope this blog helps you understand that SharePoint to SharePoint migration across tenants is not that difficult with proper planning. While Microsoft does not provide a native tool, the process becomes too easy with a reliable third-party solution like Kernel Migrator for SharePoint.
So, if you’re facing issues with tenant-to-tenant SharePoint migration, create a proper strategy and invest in the appropriate migration tool. It will help to save time, reduce errors, and ensure your organization continues working without disruption.
