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CISA · Question #270

Which of the following should be the FIRST step in a data migration project?

The correct answer is C. Understanding the new system's data structure. The first step in any data migration project is to thoroughly understand the new system's data structure, as this defines the target for all migrated data.

Submitted by wei.xz· Apr 18, 2026Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation

Question

Which of the following should be the FIRST step in a data migration project?

Options

  • ACreating data conversion scripts
  • BCompleting data cleanup in the current database to eliminate inconsistencies
  • CUnderstanding the new system's data structure
  • DReviewing decisions on how business processes should be conducted in the new system

How the community answered

(23 responses)
  • B
    4% (1)
  • C
    87% (20)
  • D
    9% (2)

Why each option

The first step in any data migration project is to thoroughly understand the new system's data structure, as this defines the target for all migrated data.

ACreating data conversion scripts

Creating data conversion scripts is a step that comes after understanding both the source and target data structures, as the scripts depend on this understanding.

BCompleting data cleanup in the current database to eliminate inconsistencies

Completing data cleanup in the current database is a crucial preparation step, but it typically happens after the target structure is understood and mapping requirements are clear, as the cleanup often aligns with the needs of the new system.

CUnderstanding the new system's data structureCorrect

Before any data can be moved or transformed, it is fundamental to understand the target environment. Understanding the new system's data structure, including its schema, data types, relationships, and constraints, is the absolute first step, as this knowledge dictates how existing data needs to be mapped, transformed, and loaded.

DReviewing decisions on how business processes should be conducted in the new system

Reviewing decisions on how business processes should be conducted in the new system is important for overall system design and functionality, but it's a higher-level activity; the technical data migration specifics must start with understanding the data structures.

Concept tested: Data migration project initiation

Topics

#Data Migration#Project Planning#System Implementation#Data Structure

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