Scope: Overview of platform migration and/or URL change process, once notified via email from the provider.

Contact: Abby Wickes

Unit: Electronic Resources & Serials Acquisitions

Date last reviewed: 06/22/2022

Date of next review: 06/22/2024

Overview

Platform migrations and URL changes are becoming more common as content providers update URLs to conform with new security protocols (such as https migrations) emerging SEO best practices, or when migrating content from historic, or "legacy" platforms for digital enhancement.

Sometimes a platform migration involves a URL change, but not always. Sometimes a URL is changed without a platform migration. The ERM team uses the Migrations Trello board to track these changes and the steps we must take to ensure continued access, with template cards for platform migrations as well as URL changes (typically https migrations).

Communication about these changes varies significantly from provider to provider, so libraries must often be proactive requesting this information.

Workflow

• Receive notice of migration or URL change from provider via email.
• Create appropriate card on Trello Migrations Board (either 'Provider Platform Migration' or 'HTTPS Migration/URL Change'
  • Fill out provider and URL information
  • add due date to card (typically date of migration, which is often estimated or subject to change)
• Forward email notice of migration to dul-ermteam email list
• Add appropriate ERSA staff to card to check entitlements, linking, bib records, etc.
• Request outstanding information from provider as necessary, including:
  • What is the estimated timeline for the launch of the new platform or URL change? (Often estimated or subject to change)
  • What will the new URL be? What is the old URL?
  • Will the new and old URLs have redirects or be running dually, if so for how long?
  • What proxy stanza info do we need to update?
  • Will our library admin account information change?
  • How long will usage data from the old site be available?
• If you are in direct contact with someone from the provider, point them to NISO Content Platform Migration working group—take advantage of teachable moments for standardization!
• Download usage statistics from old platform if necessary