Transitioning from Squarespace 7.0 to 7.1: A Strategic Approach
As a web developer, managing transitions between different platform versions can be a complex but essential task, especially when it comes to maintaining a client’s online presence. Recently, I was approached by a new client who operates three separate websites, all created on Squarespace 7.0. However, with Squarespace’s gradual shift towards 7.1, the urgency to adapt is evident.
The challenge lies in Squarespace’s limited options for updating existing sites. Currently, users of version 7.0 are faced with two choices: either develop a new site on version 7.1 or remain on the outdated platform, which is no longer being actively supported except for critical issues. This lack of ongoing support raises concerns about future accessibility and functionality for these websites.
To navigate this transition smoothly, I’ve proposed a strategy to the client that involves a complete rebuild of their sites on the newer version. My recommendation is to create a new site in Squarespace 7.1 and meticulously replicate the existing content—conducting a page-by-page 301 redirect in the process. The rationale behind this approach is twofold: the current sites have minimal SEO value, and while their domain authority is relatively decent, there’s significant room for improvement.
Here’s a breakdown of my strategy:
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New Site Build: Initiate the development of a new website under the client’s existing Squarespace account, utilizing version 7.1.
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Content Mapping: Maintain a detailed Google Sheet that outlines the URLs from the old site and their corresponding new URLs. This will ensure a clear and organized migration process.
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Implement 301 Redirects: Once the new site is ready for launch, execute 301 redirects from the old site to the new one. This step is crucial for preserving any SEO traction and ensuring users are seamlessly directed to the updated content.
I am reaching out to the community to gather insights and advice. Have any of you faced a similar situation? What best practices or lessons learned would you recommend for a successful transition? Your input would be greatly appreciated as I endeavor to ensure my client’s websites thrive in their new environment!