Time to upgrade Sitecore? Why now might be the perfect time to replatform to Optimizely
For many organisations using Sitecore XP or XM, the path ahead isn't straightforward. With Sitecore moving toward a composable SaaS model (including the launch of Sitecore XM Cloud) digital teams are being asked to reconsider not just how they upgrade, but whether Sitecore is still the right fit at all.
If you're currently evaluating whether to upgrade to Sitecore 10.4, move to Sitecore XM Cloud, or explore alternatives, this article will help you understand why now might be the perfect time to replatform to Optimizely.
We work with digital and marketing leaders to ensure their platforms support real business outcomes.
Upgrading to Sitecore XM Cloud is effectively a replatform
XM Cloud may sound like a continuation of the Sitecore you know, but it’s fundamentally a new platform. Choosing to move to XM Cloud requires:
- Training your teams on new tools and workflows
- Rebuilding components to fit a SaaS-native model
- Adapting to new DevOps, hosting, and deployment environments
- Migrating content, templates, and personalisation logic
In many ways, it's a full replatforming project. Which begs the question: should you consider replatforming to another digital experience platform (DXP) entirely?
Why Optimizely is a powerful alternative to Sitecore
Optimizely (formerly Episerver) offers a modern, cloud-based DXP that appeals to digital, content, and marketing teams alike. If you're looking for a Sitecore alternative, here’s why Optimizely should be on your radar.
1. Unified DXP without the complexity
Unlike Sitecore's modular stack, Optimizely offers CMS, experimentation, commerce, and personalisation in a single solution. This simplicity means faster time to market and fewer integration headaches.
2. Faster time to value
With SaaS-native architecture, implementation times are shorter, upgrades are seamless, and total cost of ownership is often lower compared to Sitecore.
3. Built-in experimentation and optimisation
Optimizely is a leader in A/B testing and personalisation. It empowers marketing teams to run experiments and optimise customer journeys without relying on developers.
4. Lower running and licensing costs
Optimizely is often more cost-effective in both the short and long term—fewer services to manage, lower hosting requirements, and reduced technical debt.
5. Future-ready architecture
Whether you want to go headless, hybrid, or full-stack, Optimizely supports all modern development models without locking you into a single architecture.
Should you replatform from Sitecore?
Replatforming isn't just a technical decision. It's a strategic one. Before investing in another Sitecore upgrade, ask yourself:
- Are we getting full value from our current platform?
- Do our marketing teams have the flexibility they need?
- Are we spending more time maintaining than innovating?
- Could we deliver better digital experiences on a different DXP?
If your answers point to friction, complexity, or missed opportunities, it may be time to look at Optimizely as a Sitecore replacement.
Speak to us about your platform roadmap
We help organisations navigate platform change confidently. Whether you’re upgrading Sitecore, planning to move to XM Cloud, or considering a replatform to Optimizely, we’re here to help you evaluate your options.
Contact us today for a free platform assessment or to explore what replatforming to Optimizely could look like for your business.
