Common Issues When Upgrading Sitecore XP / XM

At first, upgrading a Sitecore XP/XM instance to its newest version might seem like a challenge as huge as climbing Mount Everest. There are many things to consider, from the compatibility of your installed custom modules to the change readiness of your code and the quantity of content that needs to be updated.

However, as more upgrade projects come your way, it will be easier to identify the critical spots that require the most attention so the process can run smoothly.

This article will highlight the most frequently encountered issues and problems when upgrading Sitecore versions and provide possible solutions.

Compatibility of Custom Modules

If you’re sitting on Sitecore XP/XM 9, 8, 7, or—heaven forbid—6, there is a high possibility that you may have some modules that help you achieve your necessary website features. Most modules keep current with the new Sitecore versions, but some may have run out of support or even been deprecated. Here's how to navigate this challenge:

• Identify Potential Issues: Check module documentation and version compatibility information. Look for warnings or notes about supported Sitecore versions.

• Strategies for Unsupported Modules:

  • Find Alternatives: Explore open-source modules or paid solutions with active support for the new Sitecore version.

  • Upgrade Yourself (if feasible): If the module's source code is available and modifications are minimal, consider upgrading it yourself.

  • Rewrite Functionality: If the module is critical and no alternatives exist, you might need to rewrite its functionality to work with the new Sitecore version.

In-Code Project References Architecture

Sitecore development often utilizes project reference architectures (e.g., folders, projects) to organize code. These architectures might require adjustments during the upgrade process. Tools like Helix and the Sitecore Upgrade Assistant can streamline this task by automating reference updates and making future reference upgrades much easier.

Database Content Items Upgrade

Upgrading content items stored in the database (e.g., dbo.Items table) can be challenging due to potential schema changes, data type migrations, or handling new content fields. Here are some approaches to ensure smooth content migration:

• Data Migration Scripts: Create scripts to migrate data from the old schema to the new one, handling data type conversions and field mapping.

• Sitecore Update Packages: Utilize Sitecore Update packages to manage schema changes and data migrations during the upgrade process. These packages provide a structured approach for updating the database.

Analytics and xDB Features (for XP instances)

Upgrading Sitecore XP involves carefully considering your analytics and Experience Database (xDB) features. Here's a breakdown of critical aspects to address:

• Integration Compatibility

  • Existing Analytics Integrations: Evaluate the compatibility of your current analytics integrations (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) with the new Sitecore version.

    • Check the vendor documentation or support channels for compatibility information.

    • Update integrations to compatible versions if necessary.

    • If an integration is no longer supported, explore alternative solutions that work with the new Sitecore version.

  • xDB Connectors: Sitecore utilizes xDB connectors to collect and store customer experience data. Ensure your existing xDB connectors are compatible with the new version. Update or replace incompatible connectors to maintain data collection functionality.

• Data Migration

  • Historical Analytics Data: Historical data stored in xDB can be valuable for trend analysis and user behavior insights.

    • Determine if migrating historical data to the new xDB schema is necessary.

    • If migration is required, develop strategies to transform and migrate the data while preserving its integrity. Tools like the Sitecore xDB Data Migration Tool can assist in this process.

  • Real-time Data Collection: During the upgrade window, there might be a temporary interruption in real-time data collection.

    • Consider strategies to minimize this disruption, such as scheduling upgrades during low-traffic periods.

    • Implement mechanisms to capture any missed data after the upgrade for a complete picture of user behavior.

• Reconfiguration

  • Analytics Settings: After the upgrade, you may need to reconfigure some analytics settings within Sitecore.

    • Review and update settings related to tracking goals, event definitions, and custom dimensions/metrics.

  • Tracking Code: Tracking code snippets embedded in your website pages might need adjustments to ensure data is collected correctly in the new Sitecore version.

    • Update tracking code based on the new version's requirements.

  • Reporting and Dashboards: Existing reports and dashboards that rely on historical or real-time data may need to be updated to reflect changes in the data schema or collection methods.

By carefully considering these aspects, you can ensure a smooth upgrade for your Sitecore analytics and xDB features, minimize data loss, and maintain the continuity of your customer experience insights.

Best Practices for a Smooth Upgrade

Planning and preparation are critical to a successful Sitecore upgrade. Here are some best practices to follow:

• Thorough Testing: Test the upgraded system thoroughly in a staging environment before deploying it to production.

• Backups and Rollback Strategies: Throughout the upgrade process, create regular backups of your system and have a rollback strategy in place in case of unforeseen issues.

• Clear Communication Plans: Keep stakeholders informed about the upgrade process, timelines, and potential risks.

Wrapping Up

Upgrading to the latest version of Sitecore XP/XM can be smooth but just as easily include many issues. We’ve outlined some of the most commonly found problems, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t others.

Oshyn is a Sitecore partner with extensive experience handling Sitecore development projects. From implementations that follow best practices to performing upgrades to the latest versions and more, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you with any of your Sitecore issues. With our proprietary upgrade process, you can get upgrades done faster and save 30% or more than a traditional upgrade approach.

Contact us to see how we can help with your upgrade needs.