How to correctly migrate urls from a custom asp.net solution to wordpress?

@vinnie 

Here are the steps to correctly migrate URLs from a custom ASP.NET solution to WordPress:

1. Map the old URLs to the new WordPress URLs: This involves creating a spreadsheet that maps the old URLs to the new WordPress URLs, taking into account the new structure of the WordPress site.
2. Set up redirects: Once the mapping is complete, you will need to set up redirects from the old URLs to the new WordPress URLs. This can be done using .htaccess on an Apache server, or through IIS on a Windows server.
3. Update internal links: You will also need to update any internal links within your content to point to the new WordPress URLs. You can use a search and replace tool to automate this process.
4. Test the redirects: Before going live, you should test the redirects to ensure that they are working correctly. You can use a tool like Screaming Frog or Google Search Console to crawl your site and verify that all of the redirects are in place.
5. Launch the new WordPress site: Once you have tested the redirects and updated any internal links, you can launch your new WordPress site.

Note: These steps may vary slightly depending on the specific setup of your ASP.NET solution and your WordPress site, so it is best to consult with a developer experienced in both platforms to ensure a smooth migration.

@vinnie 

Additionally, here are some additional steps to consider for a successful migration:

1. Set up a staging environment: Create a test environment where you can replicate your ASP.NET solution and install WordPress. This allows you to perform the migration and test it thoroughly before making it live.
2. Pre-migration SEO analysis: Analyze your current website's SEO performance, including keyword rankings and backlinks, and take note of any high-performing pages. Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to gather this data.
3. Install and configure WordPress: Set up a new WordPress installation that matches the structure and design of your ASP.NET solution. Customize the appearance using themes and plugins to match your previous website's look and functionality.
4. Migrate content: Export your content from the ASP.NET solution and import it into WordPress. Use plugins like the WordPress Importer or All-in-One WP Migration to simplify the process. Ensure that images, videos, and other media files are also migrated correctly.
5. Set up URL structure: If your ASP.NET solution had a different URL structure than WordPress, set up the appropriate permalink structure in WordPress to match it closely. This helps maintain search engine indexing and prevent 404 errors.
6. Set up redirects: Implement 301 redirects for each old URL to its corresponding new WordPress URL. Use a plugin like Redirection or edit your .htaccess file to handle the redirects effectively.
7. Update metadata and optimize content: Review and update metadata (titles, meta descriptions, etc.) for each page in WordPress. Ensure that it is optimized for SEO and maintains the relevance of the content from your ASP.NET solution.
8. Monitor crawl errors and fix them: Regularly monitor Google Search Console for crawl error reports and fix any broken links or 404 errors that may have occurred during the migration.
9. Update XML sitemap: Generate a new XML sitemap for your WordPress site, including all the new URLs. Submit it to search engines to help them crawl and index your new site efficiently.
10. Monitor traffic and keyword rankings: After the migration, keep a close eye on website traffic and keyword rankings. Make adjustments as needed to improve performance and optimize for search engines.
11. Update any integrations or functionalities: If your ASP.NET solution had specific integrations or custom functionalities, ensure that they are properly integrated into WordPress. Install plugins or custom code as necessary to replicate the same functionality.

Remember to back up your ASP.NET solution before starting the migration process, and consider seeking professional assistance to ensure a smooth and efficient migration.