Can You Change Squarespace Version?

Changing your Squarespace version involves moving from one version of Squarespace to another. As of my knowledge cutoff date in October 2023, Squarespace primarily offers two versions: Version 7.0 and Version 7.1. Here are detailed steps and considerations for changing your Squarespace version:

Understanding the Differences

1. Version 7.0: Older version with multiple template families, each with its own capabilities and limitations.
2. Version 7.1: Newer version with a single unified template, which simplifies design and feature consistency across different sites.

Important Considerations

• No Direct Upgrade/Downgrade: There is no direct method to upgrade from 7.0 to 7.1 or downgrade from 7.1 to 7.0. Changing versions involves creating a new site on the desired version and manually migrating content.
• Compatibility: Some features and templates in Version 7.0 may not have direct counterparts in Version 7.1, so ensure that your required features are available in the new version.
• Design and Layout: Templates and design features can differ significantly, requiring a redesign of your site.

Steps to Change Versions

From Version 7.0 to 7.1:

1. Evaluate Existing Site: Take inventory of your current site’s content, design elements, and functionalities.
2. Sign Up for a New Site:
3. Log into your Squarespace account.
4. Start a new trial site, ensuring you select Version 7.1.
5. Select a Template: Choose a starting template in Version 7.1. Remember, the look of the template can be heavily customized.
6. Recreate Pages:
7. Manually recreate each page from your original site in the new Version 7.1 site.
8. Copy and paste text content, upload images, and set up any galleries or custom features.
9. Design Customization: Customize the design settings to match or improve upon your original site’s design. Use the Style Panel in 7.1 for theme adjustments.
10. Transfer Functionality: Enable and configure any plugins, integrations, or custom code.
11. Test New Site: As you build, regularly preview the site to ensure everything looks and functions correctly.
12. Migrate Domains: Once the new site is ready, connect your domain to the Version 7.1 site in the Domains section.
13. Cancel Old Site: Only after ensuring everything is working correctly, cancel the old site subscription to avoid unnecessary charges.

From Version 7.1 to 7.0:

Moving from Version 7.1 back to 7.0 is generally not recommended due to the forward design principles and support for newer features in 7.1. However, if needed: 1. Evaluate Need: Ensure that the specific features or templates needed are exclusive to 7.0. 2. Sign Up for Version 7.0: - You may need to contact Squarespace support if 7.0 trials are no longer readily available. 3. Follow Similar Steps: Rebuild the site using the same steps as moving from 7.0 to 7.1.

Limitations and Considerations

• Manual Effort: Significant manual effort required to recreate and reconfigure the site.
• No Automated Migration: Lack of automated tools for direct migration can be time-consuming.
• Content Preservation: Careful attention needed to ensure all content is preserved during the transition.

Practical Tips

• Plan and Prepare: Thoroughly plan the migration process and create a checklist.
• Back-Up: Ensure your content is backed up, either by exporting data where possible or saving copies.
• Temporary Downtime: Inform your users of potential temporary downtime during domain transfer, if applicable.
• Consider Professional Help: If the process seems overwhelming, consider hiring a professional familiar with Squarespace migrations.

By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively change your Squarespace version and ensure a smooth transition for your website’s design and functionality.