Website migration update: preparing for go-live
Work is continuing to move Moray Council’s external website from the current Rhythmyx content management system (CMS) to Umbraco CMS. This is an important step in replacing older website technology with a more modern, supported platform that will improve how website content is managed and maintained.
Benefits for website visitors
The move to Umbraco will deliver a number of improvements for people accessing the Moray Council website, including:
- A clearer and more consistent layout, making it easier to find information quickly
- Improved accessibility, helping ensure content is usable by a wider range of people, including those using assistive technologies
- Better performance and reliability, supporting faster page loading and a smoother browsing experience
- More up-to-date and relevant information, as services will be able to maintain their content more efficiently
- Improved compatibility across devices, particularly for users accessing the site via mobile or tablet
These changes are intended to make it easier for residents, businesses and visitors to access council services and information online.
Current position
Testing of the migrated website is currently underway. This includes checking that content has moved across correctly, that pages display as expected, and that any outstanding issues are identified and addressed before the new site is made live.
The project team is also working through the final technical activities required for go-live, including user access, permissions, redirects, hostnames and related configuration. The current expectation is that the new website will go live mid-July, subject to successful testing and completion of the remaining go-live checks.
What this means for website administrators
Staff who currently act as administrators for service or team webpages will be contacted before go-live. These sessions will introduce the replacement Umbraco system, explain how content will be managed, and provide training for those who need to update pages after the new site is launched.
In the meantime, website administrators are asked to review the pages they are responsible for and check that content is accurate, up to date and still required. This will help ensure that the information migrated to the new website is as clear, relevant and useful as possible.
What happens next
Further updates will be shared as the go-live date is confirmed. Once the new website is live, staff will receive guidance on how to request updates, how access to Umbraco will be managed, and where to get support.
Thank you to all services and webpage administrators for your support as we move towards a more modern and sustainable website platform for Moray Council.