Webflow Legacy Editor to Edit Mode Migration Guide

Guides
Webflow
April 9, 2025
10
min read

Background Information

Important Notice: Webflow is sunsetting the legacy Editor, which will no longer be available by the end of 2025. All clients need to transition to the new Edit mode.

Key differences between Legacy Editor and Edit Mode:

  1. Legacy Editor limitations:
    • Will be deprecated by the end of 2025
    • Not compatible with Webflow AI Assistant
    • No localization features
    • No access to Assets panel
    • No comments support
    • Limited number of content editors depending on Site plan
  2. Edit mode benefits:
    • Compatible with modern Webflow features (AI Assistant, Localization)
    • Access to asset management in the Assets panel
    • Ability to read, add, and resolve comments
    • Unlimited content editors

Steps for Webflow Developer

Step 1: Assess Current Setup

  • Create a list of all clients using the legacy Editor
  • Determine which clients need immediate migration vs. which can wait
  • Check if client sites have any specific features that might be affected by the transition

Step 2: Create Client-Specific Migration Plans

  • Analyze each client's site structure and editing patterns
  • Document what content they regularly update
  • Identify any potential workflow changes required

Step 3: Prepare Client Workspace Settings

  1. Go to your Workspace's Team settings
  2. Check available seats for content editors
  3. Prepare to add client seats as needed (note: this will require purchasing appropriate seats)

Step 4: Update Element Edit Permissions

  1. Open each client's site in Design mode
  2. Review and update editing permissions for elements:
    • Select elements on the canvas
    • Go to Element settings panel > Editing permissions
    • Ensure appropriate elements are editable

Step 5: Create Client Documentation

  • Take screenshots of the client's specific site in Edit mode
  • Prepare a customized version of the client instructions below
  • Create a document that highlights the specific areas they typically edit

Step 6: Schedule Client Training

  • Set up 15-30 minute training calls with each client
  • Prepare a demonstration of Edit mode using their actual site
  • Plan to record the session (with permission) for them to reference later

Steps for Client

Step 1: Understanding the Change

Dear {Client Name},

Webflow is retiring its legacy Editor system by the end of 2025 and transitioning all users to the new "Edit mode." This transition provides you with enhanced editing capabilities, better collaboration tools, and access to new Webflow features.

Step 2: Accessing Edit Mode

  1. Log in to your Webflow account using your credentials
  2. Navigate to your Dashboard
  3. Hover over your site's thumbnail
  4. Click the Open site button

Show Image

Step 3: Navigating Edit Mode Interface

The Edit mode interface includes:

  • Pages panel: Navigate between different pages
  • CMS panel: Manage your collection items
  • Assets panel: Manage images and other media files
  • Settings panel: Adjust page settings
  • Comments: Collaborate with team members
  • Publish button: Make your changes live

Show Image

Step 4: Editing Content

Text Editing:

  1. Select the text element you want to edit
  2. Click the "pencil" icon that appears in the upper-left corner
  3. Edit the text directly on the canvas
  4. Format text using the formatting menu that appears when you select text

Editing Links:

  1. Select the link element
  2. Click the "link" icon in the upper-left corner
  3. Edit the URL and link settings

Replacing Images:

  1. Select the image element
  2. Click the "image" icon in the upper-left corner
  3. Choose a new image from your assets or upload a new one
  4. To adjust image settings, click the "cog" icon

Step 5: Working with CMS Content

If your site uses Collections (like blog posts, team members, etc.):

  1. Go to the CMS panel on the left
  2. Click on the Collection you want to edit
  3. You can create, edit, delete, or manage Collection items
  4. After editing a Collection item, save it as a draft or publish directly

Step 6: Publishing Your Changes

When you're ready to make your changes live:

  1. Click the Publish button in the top-right corner
  2. Choose whether to publish to your staging domain or production domain
  3. Review the changes and confirm

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Q: What happens if multiple people edit the same content?A: If multiple people edit the same content simultaneously, the last edits will override previous changes. It's best to coordinate editing times.

Q: Can I still change the design of my site in Edit mode?A: No, Edit mode is focused on content changes only. Design changes still require access to Design mode.

Q: What if I accidentally delete something important?A: Contact us immediately at [your@email.com]. We can help restore previous versions.

Need Help?

If you encounter any issues or have questions about using Edit mode, please contact us:

We're here to ensure your transition to Edit mode is smooth and hassle-free.

Would you like me to expand on any particular section of this guide? Or would you like me to create a more visual version that includes annotations on the screenshots?

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