ERP data migration checklist: How to protect and optimise your data

Are you planning an ERP data migration? Data migration best practices are essential for safeguarding data during ERP migration and ensuring a smooth transition to your new system. Whether you’re implementing Microsoft Dynamics or another ERP solution, your data migration process should be strategic, secure, and focused on data quality.

Why data matters in ERP migration

Your ERP system is only as good as the data it holds. Clean, accurate, and well-structured data is the foundation for reliable reporting, confident decision-making, and efficient business processes. Data quality in ERP migration is critical—poor data migration can undermine automation, analytics, and user trust, while robust data migration sets the stage for business continuity and growth.

Key risks and how to safeguard your data

Risk: Data loss and corruption

Safeguard: Always create data backup before ERP migration and establish contingency plans, including rollback procedures, to address unforeseen issues or data loss.

Risk: Data quality issues

Safeguard: Data cleansing is vital. Remove duplicates, correct errors, and ensure consistency in data entry and formats before migration.

Risk: Security and compliance

Safeguard: Use robust data governance in ERP projects, restrict access to migration tools, and monitor user actions.

Risk: Business disruption

Safeguard: Conduct trial migrations and dry runs to validate the process and minimise downtime. Test with real business scenarios and involve ERP super users early.

The data migration journey: ten steps to success

Assess your data
Map your data
Cleanse and standardise
Transform data
Validate data
Plan your migration
Test thoroughly
Train and communicate
Backup and contingency
Post-migration validation

Data governance: the cornerstone of migration success

Implementing a formal data governance framework is essential. Assign data owners and stewards, define policies for data access and quality, and ensure alignment with business objectives. Data governance supports compliance, security, and maximises the value of your data throughout the ERP migration process.

Leadership insights: treat data migration as a strategic initiative

Start Early: Begin data migration planning at the outset of your ERP project.
Empower super users: Identify and empower ERP super users to champion data migration.
Collaborate across teams: Involve stakeholders from IT, finance, operations, and compliance.
Leverage technology: Use advanced migration tools, automation, and AI to enhance data quality.

Data migration is not just a technical hurdle—it’s a leadership opportunity. By safeguarding data, following best practices, and embracing governance, you lay the groundwork for ERP success and business transformation. Treat your data as a strategic asset, and your migration will deliver lasting value.

Why choose TVT?

At TVT, we specialise in helping businesses make the right move at the right time. Our team of ERP experts will guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth data migration and a successful ERP transition.

Ready to future-proof your business? Contact TVT today to find out how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps for a successful ERP data migration? The key steps include assessing your data, mapping and cleansing it, validating and transforming it, planning and testing the migration, training users, backing up data, and post-migration validation.

How can I safeguard data during ERP migration? Safeguarding data during ERP migration involves creating backups, establishing contingency plans, restricting access, and using robust data governance frameworks.

Why is data quality important in ERP migration? Data quality is critical for reliable reporting, efficient processes, and user trust. Clean, accurate data ensures your new ERP system delivers maximum value.

What is data governance in ERP projects? It refers to the policies, roles, and processes that ensure data is accurate, secure, and used responsibly throughout the migration and beyond.

What are the risks of poor data migration? Risks include data loss, corruption, compliance breaches, business disruption, and increased costs.

How do I manage change during ERP migration? Change management involves clear communication, user training, and involving key stakeholders early.

Can I migrate data to Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems? Yes, including Business Central. The process involves careful planning, data mapping, cleansing, and validation.