Migrations suck

I just completed another app migration, and I think I can generalize and say it; migrations suck.

App migrations usually involve moving from one platform to another and the tricky part is maintaining compatibility while transferring data and/or features. Getting the data migrated from one system to another is especially complicated for edge cases which are not necessarily always documented or known.

Migrations involve uprooting an established system for a potentially better one. The new system might have some good potential but actually achieving the gains takes more effort and time. In the mean time, breaking apart the existing system that works (albeit not as well) is a huge drain on resources. In most migrations it is better to port the existing features and not add even more features to reduce risk and scope. During all that pain it is hard to explain the benefits for the cost. All of these reasons make migrations suck.

Behavioral migrations like picking a new habit are very similar. It’s still early in the year and some of you still make resolutions. You’ll soon get to the realization of how much these migrations suck.

Literal migrations (physically moving from location to another) are not that great either. How do you pack so much stuff? Even worse, some migrations like getting a green card in the US do take ages. But that’s another post.

However, one of my favorite philosopher’s said;

You are going through a metamorphosis … it will not be a pleasant experience. But when you come out of it, you will be the beautiful prince you are always meant to be.

Migrations give hope. Hope is everything.