AEM Assets migration: metadata, rights and a validated cutover
A DAM migration succeeds on the metadata model and the validation, not the file copy. Here is how Prolifico plans, imports and validates.
The short answer
Migrating to AEM Assets is mostly a metadata and governance project, not a file-copy project. Prolifico plans the migration around a metadata model, folder and permission structure and rights information, uses bulk import for the assets, and validates counts, metadata and permissions before cutover.
How an AEM Assets migration works
Most of the effort is in the model and the validation, not the file transfer.
Inventory and clean-up
Take stock of what exists, where it lives and who owns it. Retire duplicates and obsolete files before they move.
Model
Decide the metadata model, folder structure, tags and permission groups in workshops with business owners.
Map
Map source fields and folders to the new model, and prepare the metadata source file template.
Import
Configure bulk import, then run it in batches sized to your volume, with checks between runs.
Validate
Compare counts, metadata and permissions against the source, and fix issues before cutover.
Cut over
Switch teams and integrations to AEM Assets, train users and hand over documentation.
What you provide, and what Prolifico provides
A clear split of responsibilities keeps the migration moving.
| Area | Your team | Prolifico |
|---|---|---|
| Assets | Places the assets to migrate in a source location AEM can reach. | Configures bulk import and works with the administrator of that source to allow AEM to read it. |
| Metadata | Produces the metadata source file in the agreed format. | Provides the template, advises on mapping and imports the metadata with the assets. |
| Decisions | Owns the model, permissions and rights decisions. | Runs the workshops, documents decisions and configures AEM to match. |
| Quality | Reviews samples and signs off. | Validates counts, metadata and permissions, and fixes issues. |
The metadata model: what to decide
| Decision | Options to consider | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Schemas by folder | Different fields for product photography, video, documents and brand assets. | Teams only fill in the fields that apply, and search stays clean. |
| Cascading metadata | Values set on a folder pass to the assets inside it. | Saves effort and keeps campaigns and brands consistent. |
| Tags | A controlled tag structure rather than free-form labels. | Makes search predictable and supports automation. |
| Rights and expiry | Licensed use, regions, expiry dates and approved-use notes. | Keeps restricted or expired content out of use. |
| Integration fields | Workfront or other system identifiers. | Connects each asset to the work that produced it. |
How volume changes the plan
Prolifico plans migrations from under 5 TB to more than 100 TB. Volume changes the transfer method, the number of import runs and the time spent validating. It does not change the sequence: model first, import second, validate before cutover.
Very large libraries are usually migrated in waves, starting with the assets teams use every day, so people get value early.
Common risks, and how to head them off
- Duplicates and obsolete files moved along with everything else. Clean up first.
- Inconsistent naming and folders that cannot be mapped. Agree a structure before importing.
- Missing rights information. Decide how to handle assets with unknown usage rights.
- Unclear owners. Name who approves the model and who signs off each batch.
- Skipped validation. Compare counts, metadata and permissions before switching users over.
Keep exploring.
Planning a DAM migration?
Tell us about your volume and sources and we'll outline a plan.
Frequently asked questions
How do you migrate assets into AEM Assets?
Prolifico configures bulk import so administrators can import assets into AEM as a Cloud Service in batches, with a metadata source file for the metadata, then validates counts, metadata and permissions before cutover.
Can existing metadata be imported with the assets?
Yes. Metadata is imported through a metadata source file. Prolifico provides the template and your team produces the file in the agreed format.
How large a migration can Prolifico handle?
Prolifico plans migrations from under 5 TB to more than 100 TB, using waves and batches sized to the volume.
What should we do before a migration?
Inventory what you have, remove duplicates and obsolete files, name owners, and decide the metadata model, folder structure and permission groups.
Can we try a migration before committing?
Yes. The AEM Assets proof of concept bulk imports a set of your real assets into a sandbox. See the AEM Assets POC.
How much does an AEM Assets implementation cost?
An AEM Assets Quick Launch ranges from $6,000 to $35,000, a one-time fixed fee, over about 3 to 6 weeks depending on scope. What affects the price: How much content you are migrating, measured in number of assets and size measured in TB, and how clean the metadata is. Each connected system (Workfront, Creative Cloud, single sign-on or a custom integration) adds configuration and testing. Custom permission groups, a tag taxonomy and a metadata model take workshops and configuration time. Content Hub, Dynamic Media and the number of custom workflows add to scope. Prolifico's DAM launch proposal generator calculates scope and price from your answers.