A new form should not invalidate legitimate work
A government service updates its application form while residents have saved drafts. Migration safety ensures that existing information is handled accurately and that people are not forced into avoidable duplicate submissions.
Define what changed
Identify new fields, removed questions, validation rules and relevant policy changes.
Map old and new data carefully
Similar field names may have different meanings. Do not assume automatic conversion is always valid.
Preserve appropriate draft information
Keep valid user work where authorised and technically feasible.
Revalidate under applicable rules
Effective dates and transition arrangements may determine which requirements apply.
Test unusual cases
Incomplete drafts, assisted applications and interrupted payments may need special attention.
Communicate with users
Explain what changed and which answers need confirmation.
Break-test: a migrated draft creates a second payment
Can the system recognise the earlier transaction and prevent duplication?
Connected knowledge
See Draft Application Version Reconciliation, Application Resumption Integrity and GovTech.