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Sitecore 9: What's New

The newest version of the Sitecore platform, XP9, is now available, bringing a slew of new enhancements and advancements, including data capabilities with Sitecore xConnect and machine learning with Sitecore Cortex. It will also provide marketers with new tools to deliver personalized omnichannel experiences.

Some of the major updates to look forward to in this release include:

Sitecore xConnect

This is a set of APIs and services in the platform that will enable seamless integration and data interchange in and out of the Sitecore database continuously, in real-time. For example, CRM data can be brought in, to allow for deeper personalization. Likewise, data from campaigns and actions can be added back into the CRM so that both channels know – and react – to all of the interactions of the customer. As a result, marketers will have a constant and comprehensive view of their customers' actions and behaviors.

Sitecore Cortex

This new feature applies machine-learning algorithms and a data processing engine throughout the native analytics and optimization within Sitecore. The end result? A close mixture of rich customer data and machine-generated insights to help marketers optimize experiences in real-time.

Sitecore Headless and JavaScript Services (JSS)

While Sitecore has always had the ability to separate the creation and management of content from delivery to a web page or app, these new headless and JSS features will allow developers to request content with minimal Sitecore expertise. It will also give marketers a more holistic view of the customer by providing data gathered from each and every connected experience.

Redesigned Web Forms

New Sitecore Forms bring drag and drop functionality for quick and easy design of forms. The forms become reusable and re-skinnable assets with real-time data capture and management.

And More…
Additional features packed into XP9 include:

  • New Federated Authentication
  • Expanded xDB database support for Microsoft SQL Server 2016 and Azure SQL
  • New Marketing Automation with specific support for Personalization, Email & Commerce
  • Greater privacy measures around PII data and GDPR
  • Security features, with support for encryption at rest and in motion
  • Streamlined Upgrade, Migration & Conversion tools 

As a Certified Sitecore Partner, we'd be more than happy to discuss if an upgrade or migration to Sitecore XP9 is right for you. Contact us today to start the conversation!