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In this blog, we're going to explore the various options available for your NetSuite implementation. I'm assuming you've decided that NetSuite is the ERP system you want to use, but you may not have started the implementation process yet—or perhaps you've started but are having second thoughts about whether you've made the best decision.
First, let's outline the five different options, or routes, you have for your NetSuite implementation. We'll delve into each in more detail, but the options include:
These are the main pathways available to get your NetSuite system up and running. We'll break down the pros and cons of each option and touch on the important aspect of purchasing NetSuite. It's not always the case that you'll buy the software directly from Oracle NetSuite. Depending on the route you choose, your purchase could be through another provider.
Before diving into the options, there are a few critical parameters to consider, regardless of who you ultimately choose:
The first and most important factor is your industry. Choose an implementer with deep experience and knowledge in your industry. For example, if you're in mining, pick someone who has successfully handled implementations for mining companies. Always ask for client references and follow up with questions about how their implementation went, including timeline, overall experience, and any challenges faced.
Another key factor is the demo. The company should demonstrate its ability to handle your NetSuite implementation. This ties closely to industry expertise. A quality demo should not just be a PowerPoint presentation but should show you how your processes will work in NetSuite, addressing your company’s specific needs and potential pain points. This can give you confidence in their ability to deliver a smooth implementation.
When selecting an implementer, it’s also crucial to meet the team who will be handling your project. Don’t sign a contract without first meeting the consultants who will work on your implementation. This helps ensure a good match between your company and the team. It’s equally important to choose a company with experienced and stable staff. High turnover among consultants can disrupt your project. Look for a team with members who have been with the company for several years.
Another consideration is geography. Ideally, your implementer should be in the same time zone, or at least close enough to facilitate collaboration. If your company plans to expand internationally, consider whether the implementer has offices in the regions where you might need future support. This can make go-lives and ongoing support much smoother.
For many people, this seems like the obvious option to go with because you're purchasing NetSuite as a product, so why not get the company that makes the product to do your implementation? It seems logical—they would understand it best and have the highest likelihood of doing a successful implementation. However, the answer is not necessarily this straightforward.
You might have heard of the term "SuiteSuccess" before. SuiteSuccess is NetSuite's methodology for implementations, where they create bundles or packages tailored to specific industries. These implementations come with minimal customizations, almost no automations or integrations, and the concept is that you simply take the bundle as it is and roll with it.
One downside of using NetSuite Professional Services is the lack of deep customizations. If you need workflows, automations, SuiteScripts, or integration setups, NetSuite professional services may not be the best fit. Another consideration is the experience level of NetSuite consultants. Their hiring practices often focus on recruiting recent college graduates or young professionals who are then trained as consultants. As a result, you might find yourself dealing with less experienced consultants.
Alliance Partners don’t sell you NetSuite; instead, Oracle NetSuite will sell you the product, and the Alliance Partner handles the implementation. Examples of larger Alliance Partners include Bryant Park Consulting, Myers Holum, and Accenture.
One major advantage of Alliance Partners is their ability to handle more complex customizations. If you need a highly customized implementation, Alliance Partners can provide this.
However, a potential downside is the lack of accountability through the entire process. Because Alliance Partners focus only on implementation, they’re not involved in the sales cycle.
Unlike Alliance Partners, Solution Providers can sell you NetSuite directly. This means you’re not limited to purchasing NetSuite from Oracle itself —you can buy it from these third-party providers.
One of the best advantages of working with a solution provider is their ability to handle in-depth customizations. Additionally, because there are many solution providers to choose from, you can select one with extensive expertise or specific industry knowledge. For example:
A downside to consider is that because their consultants often have more experience, they can come with higher hourly rates for implementation.
This might involve a small team or even a single consultant. The benefit of this approach is the personalized attention you can receive. However, the downside is the higher risk associated with limited resources. If the consultant becomes overwhelmed or lacks expertise in a specific area, such as a SuiteScript development, you may face delays or need additional resources.
This is not recommended due to the complexity of NetSuite and the challenges involved in successful implementation. Even if you have team members with NetSuite experience, relying solely on internal resources is risky and will jeopardize the entire implmentation.
To summarize, there are five main options for NetSuite implementation:
If your needs are minimal and SuiteSuccess aligns with your requirements, NetSuite professional services might be suitable. However, most companies require more in-depth, customized solutions. In these cases, Solution Providers are often the preferred choice.
If you’ve already started working with an Alliance Partner or another provider and feel confident in their ability to deliver a successful implementation, there’s no need to change course. However, if you’re starting fresh, it’s worth shopping around to find a consulting agency that knows your industry and can tailor its approach to your specific needs.