NetSuite Implementation Project Plan

What to Include in Your NetSuite Implementation Project Plan

NetSuite Implementation Guide

If you are considering a NetSuite ERP implementation, you’ve come to the right place. Our certified NetSuite consultants have led many successful ERP implementation projects – we’re sharing a few best practices below.

NetSuite is known as the world’s No. 1 cloud-based ERP (at least in part because more than 38,000+ organizations globally run NetSuite). NetSuite is a powerful cloud ERP platform that provides real time visibility into data, inventory management, financial planning, supply chain management, order management and more. While a NetSuite ERP implementation is not a walk in the park, many organizations find the process to be more straightforward than other ERP software projects.

A well-structured NetSuite implementation plan is vital for ensuring that your business can fully leverage the benefits of NetSuite. An implementation plan helps minimize disruptions, reduce risks, and maximize ROI. Without a well-planned approach, you may face challenges in aligning NetSuite with your specific needs and business goals, leading to inefficient operations and missed growth opportunities.

Best practices for a NetSuite implementation plan include:

  • Using a methodology
  • Embracing change management
  • Planning for data conversions
  • Making time for testing
  • Incorporating user training
  • Signing up for ongoing support

 

ERP Implementation Planning – Using a Methodology

Executing a successful ERP project requires a well thought out plan of action. Weigh your deployment options – whether you decide to work with a NetSuite partner, or do a NetSuite ERP implementation on your own, it’s important to have an implementation methodology to guide the project. Our ERP implementation methodology is a five-step plan, for example.

Change Management – Getting Your Team On Board

Making sure your team is on board with the change before a NetSuite ERP implementation is crucial. The first place to start is at the C-level – company leaders need to be involved and supportive of the project.

Outside of executive involvement, make sure to appoint your A-team on the implementation project. Key members of the core team should include (but is not limited to): internal subject matter experts, support from IT, a project leader who is decisive and motivated and an enthusiastic, executive-level project sponsor.

Make sure to communicate early and often. It should be clear from the beginning to your core what the high-level goals of the NetSuite ERP implementation are. As the project progresses, regularly keep your employees in the loop, and give key users a voice in business process decisions.

netsuite implementation services

Data Conversions – Understanding Your Data

Once you’ve chosen NetSuite or the ERP system best suited for your company’s needs, preparations should begin even before the project kicks off. Once you have the support of your team for the NetSuite ERP implementation, assign team members to take inventory of your current data.

Prioritize your time. If the data in your existing system (or systems) is messy, is in multiple formats or has missing information, clean it up. Find errors and fix them before the implementation begins. Accomplishing this before the implementation team is on site can minimize changes or delays during data migration and help keep the project on track and on time.

Testing – Don’t Go Live Without It

There are numerous benefits to testing, to name a few:

  • Examining major business processes to make sure they “pass”
  • Ensuring all functions within the software operate properly before go live
  • Using it as a tool for hands-on user training

Training – Setting Users Up for Success

Give your employees what they need to do their jobs well.

Our best practice for NetSuite training is a comprehensive model that focuses on training all end users personally, not just department heads. The model ensures that all end users are trained sufficiently – one more way to increase buy-in and satisfaction with those who will use your new cloud ERP solution daily.

“Our goal in training all end users personally is to make ourselves obsolete,” said Steve May, vice president and head of Terillium’s NetSuite practice. “Comprehensive training empowers the internal team to use the system efficiently after we leave.”

Support – Having an Ongoing Plan

Even the smoothest NetSuite ERP implementation doesn’t guarantee issues won’t arise down the road. It’s important to make a NetSuite support plan for post go-live and beyond. Know who you can contact – and how to contact them – in the event of an issue, as well as for optimizations and added functionality. Having a support strategy that is clearly communicated to your team alleviates stress and makes life easier for all involved.

Benefits of a Structured Implementation Process

A well-structured implementation process is pivotal for organizations looking to harness the full potential of NetSuite’s powerful software. A thorough implementation plan enables businesses to align NetSuite with your unique requirements, reduce disruptions, mitigate risks, and maximize return on investment. Structured implementations ensure you can leverage NetSuite to optimize your financial management, automate processes, enhance customer relationships, and gain a competitive edge.

If you are looking to implement a simpler version of NetSuite, SuiteSuccess is a great option. SuiteSuccess is a pre-configured industry-specific solution designed to expedite implementation and deliver best practices. SuiteSuccess includes predefined dashboards, reports, and KPIs tailored to specific business needs. This accelerates time-to-value and minimizes customization, ensuring rapid and efficient deployment. On average, businesses that use this proven framework go live on NetSuite in 100 -140 days.

The Role of Terillium in NetSuite Implementation

Terillium plays a crucial role in guiding businesses through their NetSuite implementation journey. With a deep understanding of both NetSuite’s capabilities and the intricacies of various industries, Terillium’s expertise ensures that organizations receive a tailored, efficient, and successful implementation experience. Partnering with an expert like Terillium is instrumental in helping companies realize the full potential of NetSuite for your unique business needs.