Email Migration: Communication Strategy

An email migration is a very disruptive event and it’s important to keep your end users informed and engaged throughout the process. By organizing your communications effectively, you can help minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth transition.

Three weeks before the event:

  • Send an initial email to all users announcing the upcoming migration. Explain the reasons for the migration, the benefits it will offer, and the timeline for the event.
  • Provide users with a high-level overview of the migration process. What steps will they need to take to prepare? When will their email be inaccessible? 
  • Answer common questions about email migration. You can do this by creating a FAQ page or including a section in your email with answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Two weeks before the event:

  • Send a reminder email to users, reiterating the key information about the migration. This includes the date and time of the migration, the steps users need to take to prepare, and how they can access their email during the migration.
  • Provide users with more detailed information about the migration process. This could include instructions on how to back up their email, how to redirect their email to a temporary address, and how to set up their new email account.
  • Offer users a chance to ask questions and get support. You can do this by setting up a help desk, hosting a live Q&A session, or creating a discussion forum.

One week before the event:

  • Send a final reminder email to users, with all of the essential information about the migration. This is a good time to reiterate the key steps that users need to take to prepare, and to provide them with a link to a support page where they can find more information and get help if they need it.
  • Test the migration process to make sure that everything is working smoothly. This will help you identify and resolve any potential issues before the migration goes live.
  • Be prepared to respond to questions and support users during the migration process. Have a team of people on standby to help users with any problems they may encounter.

After the event:

  • Send a confirmation email to users, letting them know that the migration was successful. Thank them for their patience and understanding throughout the process.
  • Follow up with users to ensure that they are able to access their email and that they are happy with the new system.
  • Address any feedback or concerns that users may have.

By following these tips, you can organize your communications to end users effectively and ensure a smooth email migration event.

Here are some additional tips for organizing your communications to end users ahead of an email migration event:

  • Use a consistent tone and voice in your communications. This will help to create a sense of trust and familiarity with your users.
  • Personalize your communications whenever possible. This will help to make your users feel valued and appreciated.
  • Be clear and concise in your communications. Avoid using jargon or technical language that your users may not understand.
  • Use visuals to help explain the migration process. This could include screenshots, infographics, or videos.
  • Make it easy for users to get help and support. Provide them with a clear path to contact you if they have any questions or problems.

Contact me should you need professional help in planning and executing your next migration!