INSIGHT

NetSuite implementation: A guide to success

November 22, 2024

Services: NetSuite

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Implementing NetSuite can be a game-changer for your business. This powerful ERP software integrates multiple functions across your organization, such as financial management, operations, human resources and sales. By streamlining operations and standardizing processes, NetSuite provides real-time visibility into key metrics. Unlike less robust ERPs, NetSuite is highly scalable, making it an ideal choice for growing businesses. 

Careful planning and a comprehensive understanding of the phases involved are critical to a successful NetSuite implementation. With proper preparation, the potential benefits include: 

• Accelerated implementation timeline 
• Cost reduction 
• Faster return on your investment 
• Time savings in performing your ongoing business operations 

With over 15 years of experience implementing NetSuite for organizations of all sizes, BPM’s NetSuite consultants have seen it all. This guide walks you through the implementation process so you can confidently navigate each step. 

NetSuite implementation  

NetSuite implementation is the process of planning, configuring, and deploying the NetSuite Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Careful planning and an understanding of each step in the implementation process are crucial for a successful NetSuite rollout.  

Rushing the implementation without adequate preparation can cause problems down the road. These include lack of user adoption, data migration issues and failure to realize expected benefits. Conducting the implementation in phases allows sufficient time for requirements gathering, system configuration, testing, training and change management. 

Partnering with experienced NetSuite consultants can help organizations navigate implementation challenges.  

NetSuite implementation: Five key phases 

Every NetSuite implementation process is different. However, all successful implementations consist of five key phases. Each phase requires careful planning and execution. 

1. Discovery 

The discovery phase aims to set clear ERP implementation goals. This phase includes BPM-led sessions to: 

• Review current business processes 
• Analyze current state of project process areas to identify inefficiencies 
• Design desired future state of processes 

The discovery phase sets the stage for your NetSuite journey. We dive deep into understanding where your business is today and where you want it to go tomorrow. By mapping out your current processes and identifying areas for improvement, we can tailor NetSuite to your specific needs, helping you get the most out of your investment and get your stakeholders on board from day one.  

2. Configuration 

In the configuration phase, BPM utilizes industry best practices and big-picture knowledge obtained in discovery to architect a flexible, scalable NetSuite solution. This phase involves tailoring the system to meet specific business requirements while leveraging NetSuite’s standard functionalities.  

The configuration phase encompasses setting up core modules, customizing workflows, and establishing key integrations to ensure seamless data flow across the organization. 

3. Walkthrough 

With the configuration requirements in hand, the walkthrough phase can begin. This phase involves client-led sessions, with live BPM guidance, to test use cases by process area.  If needed, we will revisit the configuration phase until client approval is granted. 

These walkthroughs serve as a crucial checkpoint, helping to ensure the configured system aligns with client needs and user expectations. They also provide an opportunity for hands-on training and early identification of any potential issues or necessary adjustments. 

4. User Acceptance Testing 

Rigorous testing helps ensure the configured system functions as intended and maintains data integrity. During this phase, client-led testing is conducted to ensure users test uses cases by process area. This helps to ensure there are no bugs and users can successfully conduct their applicable activities in the system. 

5. Go Live 

Once testing is complete, users can make the transition from the old system to NetSuite. During the go live phase, users can begin all daily activities and transactions in the system. Close monitoring and rapid response to any issues are essential during this period to maintain business continuity and user confidence. 

Elements of an exemplary NetSuite implementation plan 

A successful NetSuite implementation requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some key elements to include in your implementation plan: 

Clear objectives and goals 

Define the business objectives, problems and goals the NetSuite implementation should achieve. This provides focus and alignment for the project. 

Set specific, measurable goals. “Reduce operational costs by 15% this quarter” is a more measurable goal than simply “reduce costs.” 

Comprehensive stakeholder engagement 

Identify all stakeholders that the implementation will affect. Get their buy-in and input on requirements. Address their concerns through regular communication. 

Appoint stakeholder advocates to liaise between the implementation team and their business units. 

Detailed project timeline and milestones 

Create a detailed project plan with clearly defined phases, activities, deliverables, timelines and milestones. Include buffer time for potential delays and align timelines with stakeholders to manage expectations and keep the project on track. 

Adequate resource allocation 

Secure adequate resources, including implementation consultants, business users for testing and technical specialists. Proper management oversight and governance of these resources help maintain project momentum and quality. 

Contingency plans 

Identify potential risks such as integration issues and data migration problems. Define mitigation strategies like extensive testing and seeking external help if needed. Plan for contingencies such as timeline slippage and budget overruns so that you can adapt to unforeseen challenges. 

Common ERP implementation issues 

Implementing an ERP system like NetSuite can be challenging for many organizations. Some of the most common issues that come up during implementation are: 

Resistance to change 

Switching to a new ERP system often requires significant changes to existing business processes and workflows. There may be pushback from staff who are anxious about learning new software or fear that their jobs will be less secure. Change management helps get all stakeholders onboard and aligned behind the ERP implementation. 

Data migration challenges 

Migrating data from legacy systems into the new ERP platform can be complicated. Before migration, data from legacy systems should be clean, accurate and formatted correctly. Inaccurate or incomplete data can affect everything in the new system, from reporting to daily operations. 

All this takes considerable time and effort. BPM’s NetSuite and Data Analytics teams can help migrate data seamlessly with minimal disruption. 

Integration issues 

Getting the new ERP system to integrate smoothly with other existing software and applications can be difficult. Challenges include differences in platforms, data formats and APIs. NetSuite implementation consultants can help architect the solution to enable seamless integration across technologies. 

NetSuite implementation duration 

Implementation time varies based on the size and complexity of the business. Smaller companies with relatively simple business processes can deploy NetSuite in as little as 90 days. However, larger enterprises with more complex requirements and customizations can take over a year to fully implement NetSuite. 

Factors that influence NetSuite implementation timelines include: 

• Company size: Larger companies take longer to implement NetSuite due to their more complex operations, extensive data migration needs, and the need to integrate multiple systems and locations. 
• Revenue: Higher-revenue firms generally have more complex operations and, therefore, require longer implementation timelines. It takes time to track numerous SKUs, integrating with third-party systems and migrating large volumes of data. 
• Deployment method: Cloud-based NetSuite deployments are typically faster to implement than on-premises solutions. With cloud ERPs like NetSuite, businesses avoid lengthy installations and benefit from continuous updates. On-premises ERPs may require four to six months just for installation before configuration can begin. 
• Number of locations: Multi-site and global companies often stage a phased rollout across locations. This expands the implementation timeline but allows each location to properly configure NetSuite before going live. 
• Integration needs: The more touchpoints NetSuite has with other applications, the longer integration work will take during implementation. APIs and web services development add complexity. 
• Customizations: Heavily customized NetSuite deployments require additional time for gathering requirements, designing workflows, developing, testing and deploying custom code. Fewer customizations mean faster implementation. 

Benefits of working with a NetSuite consultant 

Implementing an ERP system like NetSuite is a complex process with potential pitfalls if not done properly. Your team may understand business operations, but they probably don’t have the knowledge necessary for a successful ERP implementation. This is where partnering with a skilled NetSuite consultant, like BPM, can make all the difference. 

At BPM, we specialize in delivering quick and efficient NetSuite ERP implementations. Our unique accelerator approach ensures you get up and running in no time, with a focus on immediate value and a tailored optimization path that scales as your company grows.  

• Rapid Deployment: Our phased approach starts with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to deliver core functionality fast. We implement the core NetSuite ERP functionalities that are critical to your operations, ensuring a rapid deployment and quick ROI 
• Immediate Value: The MVP adds immediate value, allowing your team to start using NetSuite and to benefit from operational improvements instantly. 
• Tailored Optimization: After the MVP is live, we leverage our extensive experience and system best practices to provide a roadmap tailored specifically to suit your company’s evolving needs. BPM understands that each organization has unique priorities and constraints, so we offer flexibility in the optimization and implementation of additional functionality. This work can be done at the client’s pace and discretion, allowing you to control both the timeline and budget for future enhancements.  
• Professional Guidance: Leverage the knowledge and experience of certified NetSuite professionals who bring strategic insights and industry best practices. 
• Cost Efficiency: Benefit from a cost-effective implementation with reduced upfront costs and optimized resource utilization. 
• Scalability and Flexibility: Our solutions are designed to scale with your business, offering flexibility and futureproofing. 

Partnering with BPM for your NetSuite implementation 

Careful planning and a thorough understanding of your business requirements are essential to maximizing the ROI on NetSuite. Selecting the right tools tailored to your needs means only paying for what you require, optimizing both costs and outcomes. 

BPM’s NetSuite consulting and implementation services team has a proven track record of successful implementations. We have configured NetSuite to address complex business requirements across various industries, including manufacturing, distribution, retail, services, nonprofit and more. Our consultants work with your organization on all implementation phases. The result is a solution that drives efficiency and supports your business growth. 

Ready to make your NetSuite implementation a success? Let’s talk about how we can tailor a solution that fits your business. Schedule a free consultation today and discover how BPM can help you avoid common pitfalls and start seeing the benefits of NetSuite immediately.