Risks Of DIY Data Migration

April 13, 2022

With so much information on the internet, these days, the DIY (Do It Yourself) approach to solving problems is becoming more rampant. Now, you can easily make a Google search or see a video on YouTube for guides on how to use a product or complete a task. While this can help you solve some simple problems, it might not be suitable for data-sensitive business processes such as accounting data migration.

Data migration involves extracting and transferring data from one system or software to another. The process is considered “sensitive” as any mistake, alteration, or loss in data can cause serious damage to your business and its operations. In this article, let’s consider the risks of DIY data migration and why you need to follow data migration best practices.

1. Data Loss

One thing that is common to most DIY practices is trial and error due to inadequate knowledge. And, it is easy to accidentally delete or move accounting data the wrong way while trying to do it yourself, especially when you are not experienced. 

Such mistakes can lead to data loss which can, in turn, result in huge consequences for your business. For instance, loss or exposure of customer confidential data may lead to lawsuits over data protection and can also dent your business reputation. Moreover, the loss of important business data can affect your business analysis and projections.

To avoid data loss, you need to have a well-defined accounting data migration plan and procedure to be able to capture and migrate all the necessary data. So, it is best for you to employ the services of accounting data migration specialists.

2. Technical Difficulties

Some data migration software such as QuickBooks requires an in-depth knowledge of how they work before you can maximize the data migration tools they provide. If you follow DIY guidelines, you may not find exact practical steps on how to use these tools. Of course, this can expose you to technical difficulties that can hamper the whole data migration process.

For instance, accounting data conversions may require that you understand the different types and formats of data involved and the right tools for each conversion. So, you might still need to work with an accounting data conversion specialist to minimize the risk of costly technical errors and damages.

3. Poor Documentation of the Data Migration Process

Most data migration DIY procedures you’ll find online do not provide detailed documentation of both the information system and the strategy and execution process. If you miss a step or a sequence during data migration, you stand the risk of losing data, inaccurate results, or a completely failed process.

Even after a successful accounting data migration, you might need to refer to the documentation of the process in the future. But with the services of data migration professionals, you can be sure the migration follows a definite plan and is properly documented.

4. Waste of Time and Resources

One of the major reasons business owners/accountants attempt DIY data migration is to save cost. But on the contrary, it might cost you more to DIY than to employ professional data migration services. First, it usually takes a lot of time and research to find DIY answers that suit your specific accounting data migration needs. And, due to inexperience, it might take even longer to implement the solution. 

Also, you might end up spending a lot of resources while trying out different suggestions and recommendations. As opposed to DIYs, accounting data migration specialists already understand your information systems and the data migration requirements. So, you can save time and resources by contacting data migration professionals.

5. Legal Compliance

As a business owner or accountant, it is possible you do not know or understand the laws that apply to data migration in the United States. Such laws can be connected to data security, safety practices, and how to handle lawsuits in case of default. So, it is easier to violate these legal provisions when you follow DIY data migration practices.

Data Migration Done Right

DIY data migration can lead to serious consequences for your business both during and after the migration. So, you need to follow data migration best practices to ensure a successful and legally-compliant data migration. And a simple way to achieve this is by engaging the services of data migration professionals.

About SaaS Direct
SaaS Direct is a multi-award-winning official QuickBooks Service Provider (QSP) in the US and Canada. A leader in data conversions with 20+ years of experience with clients across North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe & the Middle East. We move data error-free with zero downtime across 50+ major accounting systems and ERP. Talk to us regarding your data conversion needs for a session of expert advice.