Mistakes to avoid during a NetSuite implementation 

Apr 05, 2024

Implementation of a new system in any business can be quite a daunting task. It requires clear communication and cooperation between various stakeholders to have a successful implementation carried out.


The same applies to NetSuite implementation for a business. NetSuite or Oracle NetSuite is a globally trusted business platform that scales up to the diverse requirements of companies with international operations and growing companies.


The NetSuite ERP implementation process requires careful attention to carry out successfully. By avoiding common mistakes in the process you can ensure seamless integration and implementation of NetSuite with your business operations.

What is meant by NetSuite implementation?


NetSuite implementation is a stage-wise process that is undertaken to integrate a business’s system with NetSuite cloud ERP software. Typically, implementation of NetSuite is done via the following steps:

 

• Requirement analysis: The process and functions are evaluated and understood, this is done in the pre-phase of implementation.

 

• System design and configuration: Planning, designing, and configuring are done for the process that is to be integrated with NetSuite.

 

• Data Migration: Data associated with the process is imported from the legacy system to NetSuite.

 

• Testing: Functions tailored to the system are evaluated to ensure proper functioning.

 

• Training: The actual users are rigorously trained to help empower their use of the system.

 

• Go-live: Functions are deployed to a production environment.

Common mistakes to avoid during NetSuite implementation


1. Opting for the wrong NetSuite implementation partner


Not only do you need to find a partner who is good at what they do, but also someone who has the training for software implementation in your specific industry.


Look for experienced partners who can tailor their services to your organizational needs. Choosing the right NetSuite implementation partner is critical to the success of your implementation project.


2. Migrating data incorrectly


Migrating data correctly and cleanly is another step important to help avoid NetSuite implementation mistakes. Migrating data without planning and preparing thoroughly can lead to the risk of data getting corrupted and used incorrectly.


Before transferring data, consider how you will do it, for instance with automation or manually. Vet your process thoroughly before implementation.


To ensure a smooth and efficient migration process, leveraging automation tools can significantly reduce the risk of errors. For more insights on how automation can streamline your accounting processes and enhance your NetSuite experience, check out our blog on the Benefits of accounting automation with NetSuite for businesses.



3. Not documenting requirements and business needs


Failing to document your company’s current needs and requirements is another one of the netsuite implementation mistakes you must look to avoid.


Before you undertake implementation, examine your current processes and system and identify what is lacking.


By doing so you can ensure that you’re getting the correct processes on board and are not missing out on any critical improvements that you might later need.


4. Not using the NetSuite sandbox tool


The NetSuite sandbox tool gives your employees the opportunity to explore and use the system in a safe environment, before going live.


This will help reduce the probability of mistakes and errors being committed during the actual implementation process as well as future use.


5. Lack of training for the employees


Overlooking the training of your employees on the use of NetSuite tools can severely impact the successful use of the software in the future of your company.


Using NetSuite to its fullest potential is easier said than done and must dedicate resources to training your employees on the same.


6. Poor budgeting


Poor or inadequate budget allocation to the NetSuite implementation process can lead to several pitfalls in the future.


You must outline and allocate budgets to creating a NetSuite implementation team, training employees, migrating data, and other critical parts of the process.


7. Ignoring data cleansing before implementation


Clean data is critical to the successful implementation of NetSuite in your organization. Before you migrate existing data into your new system you must ensure it is cleaned, organized, and archived.


In case you fail to do this you might have to deal with the same issues in your new system that used to harm your old system.


8. Over-customizing the initial implementation


One of the most common NetSuite implementation mistakes is over-customization. You might feel it to be necessary or desirable to make lengthy customizations. However, this might lead to budget or timeline-related issues.


In doing NetSuite ERP implementation you must maintain a balance between core business processes and features that would be convenient to have on board.


9. Comparing and mixing with your old ERP process


Sticking to your old ERP processes or trying to mix it with your new system might become counterproductive.


When undertaking the implementation of a new ERP system you must try to bypass the issues that your old process used to face, and this can only happen if you fully embrace the new system.


10. Not allocating enough time before go-live


Not allocating enough time before you go live with the complete implementation of NetSuite can lead to user-related issues and errors in the future.


Before going live ensure you’ve given enough time to train your employees and let them get to know the system. Involve key people in the process and ensure they get adequate practice with the sandbox tool.

Consider your strategy before NetSuite implementation


To sum it all up, NetSuite implementation mistakes are more common than they might seem to be. Undertaking such a mammoth task of onboarding a new ERP system can be tricky and, therefore, requires careful consideration and strategy.


Ensure you keep track of all the things that can go wrong and you’ll enjoy the benefits of a successfully integrated NetSuite service in no time!

FAQs

How long does it take to implement NetSuite?

A NetSuite implementation timeline typically ranges between a few months to a full year, however, a good estimate for most implementation projects is around six months.

What is the cost to implement NetSuite?

The total cost of implementing NetSuite ranges between $25,000 - $75,000.

Is it extremely important to cleanse data before implementing to NetSuite?

Yes, clean data is extremely important to a successful netsuite implementation project. The cleanliness of master data impacts testing, user training as well as go-live cutover.

What are the main challenges with NetSuite implementation?

The main challenges with NetSuite implementation include fear of change in employees, inability to dedicate appropriate resources, implementation partner has chosen wrong, absence of preplanning, issues with data migration and not dedicating a project manager with full oversight.

Enjoy the benefits of accounting automation and seamless integration