Sitecore XM Cloud (XMC) is taking the digital experience world by storm. The first hybrid Software as a Service (SaaS) enterprise Digital Experience Platform (DXP), XM Cloud plays a pivotal role in substantially reducing the bottom line for both Marketing and IT operations.

Despite its remarkable impact, the hurdle that stands in the way of businesses wanting to modernize to the latest cloud platform is the cost of migration. Transitioning from Sitecore XM/XP to Sitecore XM Cloud requires significant updates to the existing solution, and careful consideration of the associated challenges and strategic planning to ensure a seamless and cost-effective migration process.

While modernization costs vary for Sitecore XP or XM users, the majority are looking at a steep price tag. If immediate migration isn't feasible due to budget constraints, there are a few steps that businesses can take to prepare for a smoother and more affordable migration in the future. Let’s look at a few.

1. Rebuild all components using Sitecore Headless. The migration to Sitecore XM Cloud involves a comprehensive overhaul, requiring the reconstruction of all components by using Sitecore Headless architecture. This step ensures optimal performance and compatibility.

2. Move the .Net code responsible for business logic, custom APIs, and scheduled jobs from the Sitecore solution to a serverless infrastructure (Azure Functions and Web Apps for enhanced scalability and efficiency).

3. Update the DevOps pipeline to proficiently manage deployments for the new headless solution and multiple projects deployed to the cloud.

4. Start rebuilding existing components slowly using Headless SXA. Headless SXA is now supported in XP as of Sitecore 10.3 and websites can be slowly moved to the new framework as granularly as page by page.

5. Leverage upgrades to move .Net code out into serverless infrastructure slowly moving business logic, APIs, jobs, and integrations into the cloud out of the Sitecore solution may make sense for some organizations.

However, for the biggest savings, these things can be done during a Sitecore upgrade, especially from a version before v10 as v10 requires a .Net framework upgrade, which may result in a significant lift on code updates, so it’s better to update it to run in the cloud at the same time.

In Conclusion

At Altudo, we build roadmaps for modernizing your Sitecore stack to SaaS and composable architecture, aligning with your unique business priorities such as cost, timeline, and value.

As Sitecore implementation partners, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and our Sitecore implementation approach is customized to suit diverse company needs. Learn more about migration to XM Cloud in our workshop and dive deeper into optimizing your Sitecore experience.

Connect with us to initiate a conversation and let our Sitecore experts guide you through a personalized strategy that ensures a seamless and value-driven transition to Sitecore XM Cloud.