Choosing the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is critical for businesses aiming to optimize operations and streamline processes. The breadth and depth of the ERP software’s partner ecosystem is an often neglected but critical component. A robust partner ecosystem can significantly impact the availability of resources for consulting and support, both during implementation and as the organization’s needs evolve.

NetSuite stands out as a prime example of the importance of a strong partner network in ERP solutions. Approximately half of all new NetSuite customers choose to license and implement the ERP through NetSuite Partners, known as NetSuite Solution Providers. These partners are pivotal in ensuring clients receive tailored solutions and expert guidance throughout the implementation process.

Selecting an ERP software backed by a thriving partner ecosystem offers several benefits. Organizations gain access to a wealth of expertise, additional resources, and ongoing support, enabling them to maximize the potential of their ERP system and drive efficiency and productivity while minimizing implementation risks. When selecting an ERP solution, considering the partner ecosystem is a wise move that can lead to long-term success and growth for any organization.

NetSuite Partners encompass diverse organizations with a shared goal: providing software, services, and solutions to NetSuite users seeking to grow their businesses using the leading cloud-based ERP system. These partners provide specialized assistance and experience to organizations, assisting them in realizing the full potential of NetSuite’s sophisticated capabilities.

NetSuite partner programs are divided into three categories, each catering to a specific requirement within the NetSuite ecosystem:

1. SuiteCloud Development Network (SDN): Designed for independent software providers (ISVs) that specialize in building NetSuite extensions and SuiteCloud-based apps.
2. NetSuite Alliance Partners: This program comprises larger partners focused on providing client implementation services. NetSuite’s direct sales personnel leads the software evaluation and license purchase process, while Alliance partners offer installation services.
3. NetSuite Solution Providers: A long-standing program providing clients full help, including NetSuite licensingand deployment services. Solution Providers range in size and skill, but they are all committed to assisting clients in making the most of NetSuite.

Understanding the various NetSuite partner programs allows businesses to select the most suitable partners to support their specific needs, ensuring a smooth and successful ERP implementation journey.

The Advantages of Collaborating with a NetSuite Partner

When optimizing your NetSuite investment, teaming up with a NetSuite partner can significantly enhance the value you derive from the ERP system. Working with a NetSuite Solution Provider offers several compelling benefits over engaging directly with NetSuite, including:

1. Cost Savings on NetSuite Licenses:

NetSuite pricing and licensing can be intricate, and determining the best options for your organization is essential. NetSuite Solution Providers are experts in evaluating NetSuite capabilities, aligning them with your specific goals and requirements. This evaluation process often involves “proof of concept” demos, free NetSuite software trials, or attending local events.

Unlike traditional resellers, NetSuite partners or Value-Added Resellers (VARs) collaborate with NetSuite’s channel management team to co-sell NetSuite licenses. This arrangement allows clients to benefit from unbiased advice from an ERP consulting firm while having direct access to NetSuite employees. As a result, NetSuite Solution Providers can offer valuable insights and support when securing a favorable NetSuite ERP license contract.

2. Proven and Adaptable Implementation Methodologies:

NetSuite Solution Providers assist with licensing and excel in implementing and supporting NetSuite. While each implementation is unique, there are common elements in the process. NetSuite Solution Providers can employ various implementation strategies tailored to your business needs, timeline, and budget.

On the other hand, direct engagement with NetSuite or an Alliance Partner might limit your options, as they typically follow the SuiteSuccess methodology, designed to get clients live on NetSuite within 100 days using industry-specific best practices. While SuiteSuccess can be effective, there may be better fits for some organizations.

By collaborating with a NetSuite Solution Provider, you can access cost savings, customized implementation methodologies, and ongoing support tailored to your unique business requirements. Ultimately, partnering with a NetSuite expert paves the way for a more successful and satisfying ERP experience, helping you unlock the full potential of NetSuite for your organization.

The Power of NetSuite Extensibility: Unleashing the Full Potential with Integration Expertise

NetSuite’s remarkable strength lies in its extensibility, allowing seamless customizations and integrations with other cloud-based applications. Some NetSuite Solution Providers possess unique system integration expertise and in-depth knowledge of NetSuite’s functionality, making them invaluable partners in maximizing your NetSuite experience.

NetSuite’s versatile architecture supports a wide range of integrations, including:

1. NetSuite & CRM Integration: Streamlining customer relationship management processes through integrations with platforms like Salesforce, Zendesk, and HubSpot.
2. NetSuite & E-commerce Integration: Enhancing online sales and inventory management with platforms like Shopify and Magento.
3. NetSuite & 3PL Integration: Optimizing supply chain operations by efficiently managing third-party logistics.
4. NetSuite & Online Retailers: Streamlining order fulfillment and inventory management by connecting with marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart.

NetSuite Solution Providers may offer custom integration solutions or partner with various Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS) platforms like Celigo, Jitterbit, or Dell Boomi to facilitate seamless system connections.

Choosing a NetSuite Solution Provider with a proven track record in managing integration projects is advisable for organizations with extensive integration requirements. Entrusting NetSuite deployment and integration to a single organization can result in a more streamlined process, lower costs, and less complexity.

Partnering with a NetSuite Solution Provider specializing in integration expertise empowers your organization to harness the power of NetSuite’s extensibility fully.

Maximizing NetSuite’s Potential: The Value of Optimization and Support Programs

Most NetSuite Solution Providers provide specialised optimisation and support programmes to help customers even after they have deployed their NetSuite ERP system. These programs are intended to provide continuous support and consulting services to ensure that organizations continue to get the most out of their NetSuite investment.

Recognizing the significance of a long-term partnership with a consulting firm, successful NetSuite clients prioritize consistent support and expertise beyond the initial deployment phase. Having a dedicated team intimately familiar with your business and its unique NetSuite configuration becomes an invaluable asset in optimizing system performance and realizing the full potential of your investment.

Engaging in optimization and support programs allows organizations to benefit from the following:

1. Continuous System Improvements: Regular evaluations and recommendations to improve your NetSuite instance and match it with your changing business demands.
2. Expert Guidance: You will get access to a team of seasoned consultants well-versed in NetSuite’s capabilities and best practices, assuring optimal system performance and efficiency.
3. Proactive Problem-Solving: Identifying and resolving potential issues before they impact operations, minimizing disruptions and downtime.
4. Ongoing Training and Support: Assistance with user adoption, training, and support to empower your team in effectively leveraging NetSuite’s capabilities.
5. Strategic Planning: Working with your consulting partner to develop a long-term strategy for using NetSuite’s capabilities as your company grows and develops.

Organizations can significantly enhance the return on their NetSuite investment by forging a strong and lasting partnership with a NetSuite Solution Provider through optimization and support programs. Leveraging the expertise of a consulting firm that understands the intricacies of your business and its specific NetSuite configuration ensures that your organization reaps the full benefits of this powerful ERP solution.

Boosting User Adoption with Tailored NetSuite Training

The success of an ERP system implementation heavily depends on how well end users embrace the change and effectively utilize the new software. Many organizations face the challenge of investing in new technology, only to find that employees revert to old habits due to difficulties navigating the system, generating inadequate reports, or needing more crucial decision-making information.

The solution to overcoming these obstacles often lies in providing comprehensive and customized training to end users. NetSuite Solution Providers offer tailored training engagements and NetSuite-led training facilitated by the software’s training department.

Working with your NetSuite partner allows you to create a training solution that is tailored to your organization’s goals and budget. Customized NetSuite training offers several benefits, including:

1. Improved User Adoption: End users become more comfortable and proficient with the system, leading to successful adoption and sustained usage.
2. Enhanced System Utilization: Empowering users with the necessary skills and knowledge enables them to leverage NetSuite’s capabilities fully, optimizing its potential within your organization.
3. Reduced Resistance to Change: Tailored training reduces user fear and resistance, allowing for a more seamless transfer to the new ERP system.
4. Increased Efficiency and Productivity: Well-trained users can navigate and operate the system more effectively, improving efficiency and productivity across the organization.
5. Ongoing Support and Development: Customized training can be adapted and expanded as your organization grows, ensuring that your team stays up to date with the latest NetSuite features and best practices.

Investing in personalized NetSuite training can significantly enhance user adoption and satisfaction, leading to a higher return on your ERP investment and long-term success for your organization.

Factors to Consider When Deciding to Work with a NetSuite Partner

The decision to collaborate with a NetSuite partner depends on your organization’s unique goals and requirements. Here are some scenarios where partnering with a NetSuite expert can be advantageous:

1. Navigating ERP Contracts: If you lack experience negotiating ERP contracts, a NetSuite partner can guide you through the process, ensuring you secure the best deal while avoiding potential pitfalls. Their expertise addresses the complexities of the negotiation process.
2. Flexible Payment Options and Leverage: Many NetSuite partners provide milestone-based invoicing, which provides more flexibility than the one upfront payment required when purchasing straight from NetSuite. This method allows for changes or renegotiation during the project, providing greater financial flexibility.
3. Consistent, Comprehensive Support, and Continuity: Working with a NetSuite partner, particularly one that is smaller in size, frequently results in a more personalised experience and continuous assistance from the team that handled your setup. In contrast, collaborating with a bigger organisation or NetSuite directly may require various teams managing different areas of your NetSuite journey, thereby compromising service and support consistency.

Carefully assess your organization’s needs and preferences before deciding to work with a NetSuite partner. If expertise in contract negotiation, flexible payment arrangements, and consistent, comprehensive support are crucial factors for your organization, collaborating with a NetSuite expert may be the optimal choice.

Finding the perfect NetSuite Partner for your ERP

Finding the perfect NetSuite Partner for your ERP project requires careful consideration of various factors. With many NetSuite Partners, each with different areas of industry focus, expertise levels, and geographical reach, making the right choice is a crucial short-term and long-term strategic decision.

In this selection process, it is essential to prioritize capability and experience and the compatibility or “fit” between your organization and the NetSuite Partner. Finding a partner that aligns with your business goals, understands your industry’s intricacies, and can provide personalized support sets the foundation for a successful and fruitful collaboration throughout your ERP project.

Questions to ask to evaluate your NetSuite Partner

Here are some queries you can ask your NetSuite partner before employing them:

1. Does the partner have similar industry experience?

Inquiring about the NetSuite Partner’s experience in your industry is important. Ask for examples of previous clients they have worked with in the same or similar industry to ensure they understand your business’s unique challenges and requirements.

2. Can they sell discounted NetSuite licenses?

Not all NetSuite Partners may offer discounted licenses, as NetSuite generally sets the pricing. However, some partners may have special promotions or packages that can help with cost optimization. It’s best to discuss pricing and licensing options directly with the partner.

3. What are their successful previous projects?

Request case studies or references from the NetSuite Partner to learn about their successful implementations in the past. This will give you insights into their capabilities and the projects they excel at.

4. What is the partner’s implementation methodology?

Understanding the partner’s implementation approach is essential. Inquire about their methodology, project timelines, and how they handle potential challenges during the implementation process.

5. What is their existing SuiteApps and development work?

Knowing the SuiteApps (NetSuite’s pre-built applications), the partner has developed or integrated can provide valuable insights into their expertise in extending NetSuite’s functionality to suit specific business needs.

6. Can the partner cover localization requirements such as tax reporting?

If your business operates globally, ensure the partner has experience handling localization requirements, including tax reporting and compliance in different regions.

7. Can the partner teach me about underutilised system features?

A good NetSuite Partner should be willing to educate and guide you on maximizing the use of NetSuite’s features and functionalities. They can help you discover and leverage the capabilities that align with your business goals.

8. Where are the partner consultants located?

Knowing the location of the partner’s consultants can be essential for on-site support or understanding potential time zone differences for remote assistance. Additionally, inquire about their availability and response times for support inquiries.

As you gather answers to these questions, you’ll better understand the NetSuite Partner’s suitability for your ERP project and their ability to provide the level of expertise and support required for your organization.