Contributed modules

When planning a migration to the latest version of Drupal, utilizing contributed modules can significantly ease the process and enhance the functionality of your site. Here’s an overview of some key contributed modules available on drupal.org that can assist in this migration journey.

Overview of Key contributed Modules

  1. Migrate Plus
    Migrate Plus extends the core Migrate module by offering additional functionalities and extending migration capabilities. It supports complex migration scenarios, including those that require external database access.
  2. Migration Assistance: It provides advanced plugins and process extensions that can handle complex data transformations, making it easier to migrate content from non-Drupal sources.
  3. Migrate Tools
    Migrate Tools provides a user interface and Drush commands to manage migrations. It is designed to complement the functionality of the core Migrate module.
  4. Migration Assistance: With Migrate Tools, users can easily execute, roll back, and manage migrations directly from the command line or UI, streamlining the migration process.
  5. Migrate Upgrade
    A bridge module that provides an upgrade path for migrating content from older Drupal versions to Drupal 8 or 9.

Migration Assistance: This module automates much of the data migration process from older versions, facilitating a smoother transition with pre-built migration configurations.

Step-by-Step Installation and Usage Instructions

Installing a contributed Module

  1. Download the Module:

    • Visit the module's page on drupal.org and download the latest version compatible with your Drupal installation.
    • Alternatively, use Composer:
    composer require drupal/migrate_plus
  2. Enable the Module:
    • Navigate to the Extend menu in your Drupal admin interface.
    • Search for the module name and check the box next to it.
    • Click Install to enable the module.

  3. Via Drush: If you prefer using Drush, enable the module by running:

    drush en migrate_plus -y

Using the Modules for Migration

  1. Migrate Plus and Migrate Tools:
    • After enabling, configure migration YAML files specifying source, process, and destination configurations.

    • Execute migrations using Drush commands, such as

      drush migrate:import
  2. Migrate Upgrade:
    • Once enabled, navigate to the Migrate Upgrade interface in your admin panel.
    • Follow the guided steps to initiate an upgrade from older Drupal versions.
    • Review pre-configured migration plans and adjust as needed to fit your site's unique requirements.

Final Tips for a Smooth Migration

  • Back Up Everything: Always ensure you have up-to-date backups of your current site and database before starting the migration process.
  • Test Thoroughly: Conduct migrations on a staging environment first to identify and resolve any potential issues without impacting your live site.
  • Documentation: Take advantage of community forums and documentation available for each module. They offer valuable insights and tips.

These contributed modules are powerful allies for any Drupal migration, turning a complex process into a more manageable one. Embrace these tools, and you'll be well on your way to a successful Drupal upgrade.