Drupal is constantly evolving, embracing change as its driving force. From older versions like Drupal 7 to the newest ones, Drupal 10 and 10.2, the people behind Drupal keep working hard to make it easier to use, relevant in web development, delivering advanced solutions, and meeting the evolving needs of businesses and users.
The latest versions, Drupal 10 and 10.2, enhance website building with improved editing tools, customizable pages, easier development, stronger security, and modern tech.
These improvements mean businesses get more out of their investment.
As Drupal 7 will stop getting support on January 5th, 2025, it's a good time to think about moving to a newer version. This blog aims to help streamline the decision making process.
Drawbacks of sticking with Drupal 7
It's essential to recognize the limitations of continuing with Drupal 7. Opting to stay with this version might subject both you and your users to various risks, including exposure to vulnerabilities, encountering bugs, and facing challenges when integrating with new web standards. Other issues could include:
- Unsupported modules, themes, and outdated Drupal frameworks can make security risks worse.
- Compatibility problems with newer technologies and browsers can affect user experience.
- Maintenance can become complicated and costly, needing custom fixes.
- Delaying migration could lead to data loss and website downtime.
- Unsupported software versions are often targeted by hackers.
- Compliance issues may arise with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS.
- Drupal 7 may become less compatible with modern environments over time.
Reasons to upgrade to Drupal 10
1. Strengthened security measures
The new version focuses on security, with stricter coding standards, better access controls, and regular security updates. Audits and patches keep websites protected from evolving security risks.
2. Better content management
Teams get enabled with easier content editing, customizable workflows, and improved revision controls. Streamlined workflows and collaboration help deliver engaging and better content.
3. Optimized performance
Drupal 10 and 10.2 prioritize performance by using BigPipe caching to speed up page loading for dynamic content. This, along with improved caching mechanisms and optimized database queries, reduces page load times and improves scalability.
4. Advanced dev tools
Updated APIs, better documentation, and expanded development frameworks support modern practices like decoupled architecture and headless CMS, allowing for modern digital experiences.
5. Native WebP image support
Drupal 10.2 adds native support for WebP images, making pages load faster and improving the user experience, especially on mobile devices. This ensures images are optimized for better performance.
6. Accessibility improvements
Drupal 10.2 includes an updated CKEditor with better accessibility features, meeting standards like WCAG. These improvements make it easier for content authors to create accessible content, ensuring inclusivity for all users.
7. Enhanced media library management
Drupal 10.2 improves media asset management with better categorization options, improved search, and enhanced metadata management. This streamlines content creation, making it easier to manage and organize media assets.
Potential ROI of migrating to Drupal 10 and other latest versions
Let's take a closer look at the numerous benefits of upgrading to Drupal 10 and other recent versions, including increased ROI, streamlined operations, and good UX.
- Cost-Effective Redesign — Save 30-40% on redesign costs by addressing user experience during site migration, making it the ideal opportunity to enhance UX.
- Efficient Administration — Simplified user management and permission settings minimize administrative time and effort.
- Streamlined Content Creation — User-friendly interfaces and optimized workflows make content creation easier and more engaging.
- Improved User Engagement — Faster loading times and better mobile responsiveness lead to lower website bounce rates.
- Higher Conversion Rates — Enhanced user journeys and improved experience result in increased conversion rates.
- Time-Saving Content Management — Advanced editing features and automated workflows reduce content management time.
- Enhanced Security and Compliance — Strengthened security measures and compliance ensure data protection and instill trust.
- Minimized Website Downtime — Improved stability and scalability guarantee uninterrupted website access.
- Resource Optimization — Reduced downtime and administrative burden free up resources for other essential functions.
These represent some potential benefits, and the actual ROI for your organization will vary based on your specific needs and goals. Schedule a consultation with our Drupal experts for an insightful conversation.
Should you wait for Drupal 7 to cease before migrating?
First, let’s look at the reasons to wait
- Migrating your website can be complex and require significant resources. If you're working with budget constraints or lack technical expertise, it might be more practical to wait until closer to the end of life.
- If your website depends on custom modules or features not yet compatible with Drupal 10, you may need to wait for compatibility solutions or develop alternatives before migrating.
- Starting a migration project too close to the end of life could be risky and stressful, especially if you have tight deadlines for website updates.
Reasons you should migrate to the latest version
- As Drupal 7 approaches its end, finding experienced developers becomes increasingly difficult and costly. Migrating to Drupal 10 now allows you to access a larger pool of developers and secure future support for your website.
- Initiating the migration process early ensures a more manageable and controlled transition. You'll have ample time to address compatibility issues, train your team, and prepare your users for the change.
- Drupal 10 offers significant performance improvements, enhanced scalability, and exciting new features such as CKEditor 5 and a modular architecture. This results in a faster, more flexible, and feature-rich website for your users.
- With Drupal 7 reaching its end-of-life on January 5th, 2025, waiting makes your website vulnerable due to the lack of security updates. Most importantly, upgrading to Drupal 10 ensures long-term security and peace of mind.
Looking ahead
Adjusting to change can feel uneasy initially, but the benefits often outweigh the initial challenges — this perspective is crucial when considering migration.
Ultimately, the decision to migrate is yours. Consider the potential security risks of delaying the upgrade versus the advantages of early adoption, and choose the timeline that best fits your resources, priorities, and website needs.
Even if you decide to postpone the migration, it's important to plan your strategy in advance to avoid any last-minute rushes and ensure a smooth transition.
Contact our Drupal Migration experts for further information or visit to explore our migration services.