Simplify Jira Cloud Migration with Our Jira Cloud Migration Assistant

Curious how a single, Atlassian-built tool can cut weeks from a complex transfer and still keep your teams productive?

We connect your Server or Data Center instance to a destination cloud site and guide you through each step, from pre-checks to post-cutover validation. Our approach defines a clear transfer process, aligns technical tasks with business goals, and sets expectations for moving full projects or shifting them incrementally.

The tool includes app assessment, logs, and dashboards so teams can mark Marketplace apps as needed and spot issues early. We recommend pausing changes and waiting at least ten minutes after edits to ensure up-to-date data before starting, then using test runs or UAT to verify results.

We support remediation using detailed logs, merge overlapping group names carefully to avoid permission escalation, and validate users and groups after cutover so your platform remains secure and compliant.

Key Takeaways

• We deliver a structured transfer plan that balances risk and timeline.
• The assistant centralizes pre-checks, dashboards, and app assessment.
• Choose full or incremental moves to match resources and risk appetite.
• Pause edits, wait ten minutes, and run tests to ensure data currency.
• Validate users, groups, and permissions to prevent access issues.

Why migrate now: benefits of using the cloud migration assistant for Jira Cloud

We combine pre-migration hygiene, app assessment, and phased waves to turn migration risk into measurable outcomes.

Lower risk for Server and Data Center leadership. Built-in pre-checks and the assess apps stage reduce surprises by validating server data, required fields, and email domains before cutover.

Key capabilities that reduce risk

We provide structured app assessment, predictable data selection paths, and clear logs so teams can mark apps as needed and confirm vendor-supported paths. Governance controls guide group merges to avoid permission escalation.

How the tool supports phased or all-at-once approaches

Choose phased waves to sequence critical projects first, shrink downtime, and validate dependencies across issues and projects. Or run all data at once when a short change window and readiness checks allow faster cutover.

• Pre-checklists that catch blockers early.
• App readiness gates to align stakeholders.
• Success metrics: reduced time-to-cloud, fewer cutover defects, and transparent reporting.

Planning checklist: assess apps, finalize scope, validate identity sources, and announce the schedule to affected teams to increase the chance of a successful migration to your cloud site.

Pre-migration essentials: prepare your Jira Server/Data Center for a successful migration

Preparation reduces cutover risk and makes the transfer predictable.

We begin with an app-first review to confirm vendor-supported automated paths and mark each app as Needed in Cloud. Using the migration assistant, verify that app versions support automated export so app data moves with projects without manual exports.

Ensure data integrity

Clean Server data before export: remove nulls in required fields, rationalize custom fields, and validate email domains to avoid authentication and mapping issues.

Version readiness

Update the migration assistant and mission-critical apps to supported releases. For example, Easy Agile Programs must be v4.4.0+ to integrate with JCMA, and Structure requires 7.4+ for automated transfer.

Create a realistic plan

Freeze configuration changes, document dependencies, and define waves with clear acceptance gates. Make sure the cloud site has products provisioned, storage checked, and identity provider connections validated.

• Back up the server site and run a system health check.
• Draft a runbook with rollback criteria and checkpoints for each wave.
• Confirm pilot scope and success criteria to validate the migration process before expanding to more projects.

Readiness Area	Action	Expected Outcome
Apps	Assess, mark “Needed in Cloud”, verify vendor path	Automated app data transfer with projects
Data Quality	Clean required fields, rationalize custom fields, check email domains	Fewer pre-check blockers and mapping errors
Versions & Settings	Update JCMA and critical apps; align screens and contexts	Higher success rate for data migration and fewer post-cutover fixes
Operational Plan	Backups, runbook, stakeholder plan, pilot test	Predictable waves with clear rollback and acceptance gates

Install and connect: set up the Jira Cloud Migration Assistant

We make setup predictable by guiding administrators through installation, connection, and mode selection so the transfer follows a clear runbook.

Install the tool from Administration > Manage apps on your Server or Data Center instance, confirm the version, and verify product entitlements in the target cloud site. Next, create a migration, authenticate the destination, and confirm the instance handshake before you choose scope.

Where to install and how to connect

Steps: add the app via Manage apps, validate admin access and API tokens, then review settings to confirm required scopes. Pause any edits and wait at least ten minutes after server changes to ensure consistent server data before a run.

Choosing a migration mode

All-data runs are faster for a single-window cutover, while project-by-project gives granular control, easier UAT, and less risk. Use dashboards and logs to monitor progress, triage errors, and open vendor support if remediation is needed.

Mode	When to use	Key check
All-data	Short window, full cutover	Version parity, entitlements
Project-by-project	Staged waves, UAT	Scope list: users, groups, apps
Pre-run hygiene	Every run	Pause edits, wait 10 minutes

jira cloud migration assistant step-by-step: plan, validate, and run your migration

We break complex transfers into clear steps so teams can scope, verify, and execute with confidence.

Select what to migrate

Scope projects, users, attachments, and app data so only required items move and downstream teams see consistent records.

We include vendor-provided app paths where supported, and flag any jira data that needs manual handling.

Run pre-checks

Run automated checks to surface missing fields, invalid email domains, or unmapped custom fields, then remediate before execution.

Execute and monitor

Start the run via the console, watch dashboards for progress, and use logs to pivot on transient issues without pausing the whole wave.

Known issues and quick fixes

Common fixes include filling null required fields, enabling screens, installing matching cloud apps, and reconciling merged groups to restore permissions.

• Document each run with timing, scope, and exceptions for repeatability.
• Validate attachments and comments by counts and spot checks after the run.
• Use a pilot wave and acceptance gates to build a reliable test harness.

Phase	Primary Check	Quick Fix
Plan	Scope projects, users, apps	Trim scope or split waves
Validate	Pre-checks for fields and emails	Update fields, map custom fields
Execute	Dashboards and logs	Retry failed items, consult logs
Close	Reconciliation and signoff	Report exceptions and next steps

App migration deep dive: Easy Agile Programs and Structure on JCMA

We map practical steps and limits for two leading program and structure tools so teams keep visibility and hierarchy intact after transfer.

Here we examine how to move Easy Agile Programs and Structure reliably, avoiding common duplication and data loss.

Easy Agile Programs: make sure the Server app is updated to v4.4.0+ and installed in the cloud instance, and mark it as Needed in Cloud during app assessment.

For staged runs, include this app in every wave so associated projects and boards migrate with each scope. Note limitations: sprint capacities and confidence votes do not transfer, and app-side cancellation of an app migration is not supported in current jcma migration tooling.

Check logs in Manage Apps → Easy Agile Programs → Migration Assistant when Programs appear missing; common causes include absent dependency link types, roadmap link types, or missing date fields on screens.

Structure and Structure Gantt

Structure requires version 7.4+; update to the latest release and mark Structure and Structure Gantt as Needed in Cloud.

Choose one path: a single bulk transfer that includes everything, or migrate projects first then run a Structure-only pass. Never run both approaches for the same scopes to avoid duplicate structures.

To target specific structures, create a jcma migration then on Server go to Administration → Structure → Migrate to Cloud, create a configuration whose name exactly matches the JCMA migration, select structures (and Gantt), and run the JCMA migration.

Post-migration reviews

After the run, review statuses (Review required, Done, In progress, Failed), audit each structure, and remediate automations and unsupported elements.

Unsupported items may need recreation: Agile Inserter-based structures must be rebuilt, memos convert to flex items, JQL inserters and Test Run columns need validation. Verify jira data, link types, and date fields so program views and issue rollups render correctly.

App	Minimum Version	Key Action	Common Post-run Fix
Easy Agile Programs	4.4.0+	Mark Needed in Cloud; include in each wave	Add missing link types or date fields; check logs
Structure / Structure Gantt	7.4+	Update, mark Needed in Cloud; choose single or split path	Recreate Agile Inserter structures; adjust automations
Both apps	Latest recommended	Verify settings and field mappings in cloud instance	Audit hierarchies and rebuild unsupported elements

After the cutover: validate users, groups, and data integrity in your cloud site

We treat post-cutover validation as a critical phase of the migration process, ensuring teams regain secure access and that records behave as expected.

User/group reconciliation

We reconcile users and groups immediately after cutover, comparing permissions to the server site so merged same-name groups do not cause escalation.

If you use an external directory, we confirm sync and SSO behavior, validate profile attributes, and test access to sensitive projects.

Verify migrated data

We run planned test migrations and UAT to spot-check issues, attachments, links, and counts so data migrated matches expectations.

When references are missing or broken, we follow a remediation playbook for identity mapping, permission fixes, and data corrections before signoff.

Troubleshooting stuck or partial app migrations

We operationalize troubleshooting by reading JCMA logs and app-specific logs, triaging stuck app exports, and escalating to vendors when required to maintain momentum.

• Confirm key fields and screens in settings so date fields and link types render correctly.
• Align business owners on acceptance criteria and document evidence for a successful migration.
• Provide post-cutover support channels and SLAs to stabilize access and performance.

Check	Action	Owner
Groups & permissions	Compare to server site, remediate escalations	Identity team
Data migrated	UAT spot-checks, resolve broken links	Migration team
App exports	Review JCMA and app logs, escalate to vendor	App owner / Support

Conclusion

To finish strong, we outline the actions that keep risk low and ensure transferred projects and apps behave as expected.

The cloud migration assistant accelerates moves from Server and Data Center to jira cloud by combining assess apps checks, flexible modes, and clear dashboards. We recommend verifying users and groups, running test runs and UAT, and using logs for fast troubleshooting.

Mark Easy Agile Programs v4.4.0+ and Structure 7.4+ as Needed in Cloud, avoid mixing bulk and Structure-only runs, and validate jira data after each wave. Define acceptance gates, document signoffs, and standardize runbooks so migrations scale with predictable quality.

Next steps: finalize instance prerequisites, confirm scope, schedule a pilot, and engage with us to plan your jcma migration so teams can use jira cloud with confidence and continued productivity.

FAQ

What are the main benefits of using the Jira Cloud Migration Assistant now?

Using the migration tool reduces operational overhead, shortens downtime, and centralizes project, user, and app transfer procedures so we can accelerate modernizing your instance while lowering risk to ongoing work.

Which capabilities help Server and Data Center customers reduce migration risk?

The assistant offers pre-checks, staged project transfers, app compatibility assessments, and detailed logs, allowing teams to validate readiness, run pilot moves, and rollback or repeat tasks when issues arise.

Can we migrate projects in phases or must we move everything at once?

You may choose a phased approach or an all-at-once transfer; the tool supports project-by-project migrations so we can move critical teams first and minimize disruption while maintaining a single target site.

How should we prepare our Server or Data Center instance before migration?

Prepare by auditing apps, marking those needed on the target, cleaning custom fields and required-field configurations, verifying email domains and user directories, and ensuring the migration add-on and key apps are updated.

How do we assess installed apps and decide which need cloud equivalents?

Use the app assessment to flag items as “needed in cloud,” check published automated migration paths, and document alternatives for unsupported apps so we can plan remediation or replacements ahead of the cutover.

What version or update steps are required before starting a migration?

Update the migration add-on and all critical plugins to their recommended versions, confirm compatibility notes from vendors, and apply any platform patches to prevent known incompatibilities during transfer.

Where do we install and connect the migration tool on the source instance?

Install the migration add-on on your Server or Data Center instance, then authenticate and connect it to the target site using the cloud site admin credentials and API token so transfers can be orchestrated securely.

How do we choose between migrating all data or using project-by-project mode?

Choose all-data migration for a single, fast cutover when timelines demand it; choose project-by-project when minimizing risk, validating app behavior, or preserving phased adoption across teams is a priority.

What items can we select to migrate with the tool?

We can include projects, users and groups, attachments and avatars, issue histories, and supported app data; for each item we recommend running pre-checks to confirm mapping and compatibility.

What pre-checks should be run before executing a migration?

Run automated pre-checks to detect missing custom fields, required-field conflicts, user mapping issues, unsupported apps, and permission mismatches so we can fix blockers before the move.

How do we monitor progress and troubleshoot during execution?

Monitor dashboards and migration logs in real time to view status, errors, and warnings; use the logs to identify specific records causing failures and apply fixes or re-run only affected items.

What are common issues during execution and quick fixes?

Typical issues include missing user mappings, required-field validation failures, and unsupported app objects; quick fixes involve mapping or creating users, adjusting field defaults, and isolating unsupported app data for manual handling.

How are complex apps like Easy Agile Programs and Structure handled?

These apps often require prerequisites and staged migrations; we review vendor guidance, choose supported migration paths, and avoid creating duplicate structures by planning app-specific scopes and order of operations.

What post-migration checks are essential for app data?

Review app-specific logs, verify views and automations, validate field mappings, and run sample UAT scenarios to confirm that app behavior and dashboards match expectations.

How do we reconcile users and groups after cutover to prevent permission issues?

Reconcile by synchronizing external directories, validating group memberships, confirming site and project permissions, and testing access for representative users to prevent permission escalation or gaps.

How can we verify that all data migrated correctly?

Perform targeted tests, compare issue counts, attachments, and histories against the source, run user acceptance tests, and resolve missing references or broken links identified during validation.

What steps help when app migrations get stuck or complete partially?

Consult the migration and app logs to identify failing objects, retry the specific objects after fixes, escalate to the app vendor if logs show internal errors, and consider manual export/import for unsupported pieces.

Where can we find support if we encounter unexpected blockers?

Use the vendor support portal, consult product documentation, and contact the add-on developer for app-specific errors; we also recommend preserving log snapshots and error details to expedite assistance.