I know that some of you think that Communication Services is some sort of technological utopia.  We use bleeding edge technology developed by the Web Action Team, we never have questions, we always do it right, we work together cheerfully and in a constant state of gleeful collaboration.  "No, I insist, your idea is better!"

Nope.  We struggle along just like you.

Sorry.

Case in point - the Communication Services Web site was just migrated from SB 2.0 to SB 3.0.  Was the transition seamless?  No.  Are we learning something?  Yes!

We're still working on the new pages, but I have some observations.

#1 - it's actually easier to start from scratch

I've built 2 Web sites from scratch in SB 3.0.  And I have to say, in many ways it's easier.  You're starting with a blank slate.  You're imagining the possibilities.  You're thinking globally.  You're putting the customer first. Old content and navigation doesn't weigh you down.  Collaboration can be easier - no one owns anything yet.

#2 - it ain't over, 'til it's over

Sure, you've migrated your site.  You're not finished.  You're just getting started.

I remember a few years back when we were in the housing market; we went to an open house for house that had been through a major remodel.  In stages.  Without professional assistance.

The layout of the house was the craziest thing you've ever seen.  The front door entered the living room, but you had to go through a study to get to the kitchen.  Bedrooms and bathrooms appeared in unexpected places.  The floor plan made no sense at all.

A migrated Web site can quickly take on the appearance of a bad remodel.  Take the time to imagine your site from scratch.  How would it look if you were starting over?  Does your navigation still make sense?  Have your priorities changed?

#3 - clean out that closet!

Now is a good time to get rid of outdated content.  Take a hard look at your content.  Better yet, have somebody else take a hard look at your content.  I admit I was a bit embarrassed by the age of some of my content in the CS Web site.

Is it still relevant?  If not - re-write or delete.  Can't bear to part with it?  Deactivate the page.   If you have a change of heart a couple of months down the road, you can change your mind.