Transforming classic pages to modern ones in SharePoint is a step toward embracing the enhanced user experience and new features offered by the modern SharePoint experience. We understand the necessity of upgrading classic sites to modern sites, as the latter provides a more intuitive interface and seamless integration with other Microsoft 365 services. The process entails leveraging the latest SharePoint tools and capabilities to revamp the look, feel, and functionality of our classic SharePoint pages.
When we undertake the transformation from classic to modern pages, it’s essential to consider the improvement in responsiveness and the available personalization options for our users.
Here are the reasons we’re transitioning:
- Modern pages are designed to be more responsive and accessible across all devices, enhancing the user’s ability to access content on the go.
- A sleek and user-friendly interface facilitates user adoption and engagement due to its familiarity with other Microsoft 365 products.
- We gain the ability to use modern web parts and extensions that are not available or supported on classic pages, expanding our capabilities to build more dynamic and feature-rich sites.
The transformation process can be executed manually, but we often rely on PowerShell scripts, SharePoint modernization tools, or .Net for more complex or bulk transformations. These methods enable us to systematically convert our pages, ensuring content is transferred correctly and efficiently while maintaining the integrity of our information architecture. During and after the transformation, it’s critical to thoroughly review the pages to confirm that layouts are as intended and that all content is functional within the modern experience.
Contents
Preparation for Modernization
Before we embark on transitioning from classic SharePoint to the modern experience, it’s crucial to establish a solid groundwork. This involves evaluating our current setup, understanding the differences between classic and modern interfaces, and securing the necessary access rights.
Understanding Classic and Modern Experiences
Setting Up Credentials and Permissions
When modernizing SharePoint, converting classic wiki and web part pages to modern site pages is essential. We harness the potent capabilities of PnP PowerShell, addressing customizations to preserve functionality and ensuring the modern pages are review-ready before publishing.
Converting Wiki and Web Part Pages
Utilizing PnP PowerShell Cmdlets
Handling Customizations During Conversion
Reviewing and Publishing Modern Pages
Enhancing User Experience in Modern Pages
The shift from classic SharePoint pages to modern SharePoint pages centers around the need for a more intuitive and responsive user interface. We focus on optimizing page layouts, utilizing advanced web parts, and applying cohesive branding to elevate the user experience.
Modern SharePoint pages offer a range of page layouts and navigation options that are both flexible and user-friendly. Our objective is to guide users through content effectively. We leverage the simplified editing experience to structure our page layouts for optimal information delivery. For example, using section layouts such as one column, two columns, or a vertical section helps us organize content in a digestible fashion.
- Consistent use of spacing and alignment
- Strategic placement of important content
- Seamless navigation paths
Working with Modern Web Parts and Libraries
Web parts are the building blocks of SharePoint Online. Modern web parts are designed to be more functional and responsive. We use these tools to showcase dynamic content like videos, documents, and quick links. Our document libraries have also transitioned to a modern experience, enabling better document management with metadata-driven views and quick edit capabilities.
| Modern Web Part Examples | Library Features |
| Image galleries | Metadata tagging |
| Content sliders | Inline editing |
| User-generated content | Folder sharing |
Customizing Themes and Branding for Modern Pages
Aesthetic consistency throughout our site reinforces our brand identity. Modern SharePoint allows for advanced branding and theme customization. We can select from a variety of built-in themes or create custom themes to align with our brand colors and styles.
- Custom site logos
- Branded site footers
- Themed color palettes
Through deliberate design decisions, we enhance the usability and appearance of modern SharePoint pages, thus providing an improved user experience.
Additional Resources and Tools
While transforming classic SharePoint pages to modern, we must utilize a variety of resources and tools. These enhance the look and functionality of our sites, ensuring our teams benefit from the latest features provided by Microsoft.
The SharePoint Look Book is a valuable resource for visual inspiration and pre-designed templates. It assists us in visualizing the potential of modern SharePoint designs and can speed up the process of transforming classic pages by providing us with professional layouts that are both customizable and in line with Microsoft’s best practices.
SharePoint Framework (SPFx) solutions are essential for creating seamless, responsive, and efficient customizations. Our team can leverage SPFx to build and integrate rich, web-based applications directly into our SharePoint modern pages, ensuring we get the most out of our SharePoint environment.
Exploring Open-Source Tools and Community Support
| Open-Source Tools | Benefits | Community Support Channels |
| PnP PowerShell | Automated Page Transformation | GitHub Repositories |
| PnP Modernization Framework | Detailed Customization Control | SharePoint Developer Community (PnP) |
| Other Community Tools | Specific Use Cases | Tech Community Forums |
Open-source tools pave the way for cost-effective and community-vetted options for our transition to modern SharePoint. We can benefit greatly from these tools, such as the PnP Powershell and PnP Modernization Framework, which many around the world have used and refined. In addition, harnessing the collective wisdom of the SharePoint community through forums and repositories ensures we stay at the forefront of best practices.