We recently published a blog on all of the updates available when upgrading from CRM 2011 to CRM 2015.  One reader asked about inexpensive data migration options when making the upgrade.  That's a great question so here, in brief, is the answer:

 

  1. Follow the best upgrade path.  There are a variety of ways to upgrade from CRM 2011 to CRM 2015 and to have all of your data migrate along – without having to migrate the data as a separate step.  Most of the standard upgrade approaches are documented in the CRM Implementation Guide: https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh699811.aspx

    Assuming that this is not an option for whatever reason...

  2. Migrate using Excel.  CRM has a robust set of features for importing data from Excel.  If you only want the basic data (leads, accounts, contacts, opportunities), and have a simple configuration, then this should be sufficient.  Here is a brief blog on the topic: Data Migration from CRM 2011 to CRM 2015
  3. Complex data migrations and integration. If you want to migrate more complex data, such as notes, attachments, email and other activities, you’ll need to explore tool sets with a richer set of features.  Here is blog series on the topic: 
    Part I: An Overview of Application Data Migration
    Part II: Integrating Data Using Net-Change
    Part III: Timing and Rules for Data Integration

Three tools that our team have used for data migration and system integration, include:

Migrating and integrating data between CRM versions or between CRM and other systems (such as ERP) can be a complex and time-consuming undertaking.  Small mistakes can mean customer data that is corrupt, or completely lost.  Carefully test your process before migrating all data.

For more information on data migration and integration with CRM solutions, please contact us.