How to Handle Content Freeze During CMS Migration
IntermediateQuick Answer
TL;DR
A content freeze is a period during CMS migration when editors stop making changes in the old CMS so the final migration run captures all content accurately. Keep the freeze as short as possible — ideally 1–3 days — by running multiple rehearsal migrations beforehand. Communicate the freeze schedule well in advance, have editors front-load urgent content updates, and consider a delta migration approach that only migrates changes since the last full run to minimize the freeze window.
Key Takeaways
- Run at least 2–3 full rehearsal migrations before the final freeze to minimize its duration
- Communicate the freeze schedule to all stakeholders at least 2 weeks in advance
- Use delta (incremental) migration to reduce the final freeze window to hours instead of days
- Have a rollback plan ready in case critical issues arise during the freeze period