When you’re looking into an ERP system like NetSuite ERP, you'll probably hear a lot of buzzwords being thrown around. If you’re unfamiliar with the terms like Cloud, ERP, Netsuite, and all of the other technical jargon around it, this may sound like a foreign language to you.
To add to all this confusion, you may hear about something called a NetSuite implementation partner. At this point, you may be wondering “What is that?” and “Do I need one?”
We’re here to clear up some of the basics.
What is a NetSuite Implementation Partner?
Essentially, your ERP/ NetSuite implementation partner is not necessarily the same as the company selling you the software. While a NetSuite implementation partner may sell your company NetSuite licenses, they are not just vendors.
In the same way that you can buy an iPhone from Apple or Best Buy, you can get your ERP implementation done by the software provider or a licensed reseller that is local, specializes in certain areas and industries that might be more relevant for your needs.
For example, a certified NetSuite implementation partner, like GURUS Solutions (shameless plug), we not only offers NetSuite services but has also developed a number of best practices and custom solutions that are available for industries like Wholesale, Manufacturing and Professional Services.
For GURUS particularly, this includes game-changing solutions for marketplace reconciliation, container management and engineer to order.
These are what you call differentiators when it comes down to picking your NetSuite pros.
Feel like watching a video? Hear GURUS CEO, Martin McNicoll, explain the concept of a Netsuite implementation partner in the video below:
What are the Benefits of a NetSuite Implementation Partner?
To sum up, what exactly an ERP implementation partner brings to the table for your business, you can break it up into three high-level categories:
1. Technical Expertise:
It’s a no-brainer that having a resource with in-depth technical knowledge about how NetSuite works is a huge benefit to your business. But, there are other criteria to consider.
An implementation partner not only understands general NetSuite functionality, but they also understand how your new ERP system will integrate with your current software systems and business processes. Whether they need to create connectors or run a NetSuite integration between NetSuite and other systems, an implementation partner will be able to see do the work for you, so you don’t have to.
You can easily find evidence of a NetSuite partner’s technical expertise by looking at their certifications, awards, recommendations, and reputation. For example, is the partner recognized by the software vendor as a Gold Certified Partner for ERP? Do they work closely with NetSuite themselves to keep up-to-date on NetSuite's latest updates? Do they have a relationship with other vendors involved with integrated software, like Dell Boomi?
All these skills will help your company ensure that your NetSuite instance is specifically tailored for your company’s needs.
2. Industry Expertise:
In addition to being a NetSuite expert, depending on which NetSuite implementation partner you choose, you have the possibility of finding a partner with knowledge specifically tailored for your industry.
A partner who is familiar with processes and business requirements based on your industry will have experience implementing and using add-ons or modules developed specifically for your vertical or will have worked with multiple companies within a certain industry.
Not only can your NetSuite implementation partner give you industry-specific technical knowledge, but they can also provide you with knowledge on pain points or challenges that you may not have even known about. In addition, they can also teach you how to make the most out of your industry-specific modules.
A good NetSuite implementation partner should be conversant in the industry language of your teams and understand your industry’s best practices and will listen and understand your present needs as well as your long-term goals.
3. Communication:
An ERP implementation can be a long process - so much so that your implementation team (if they are external), becomes a part of your own team. An ERP implementation partner that is compatible with your own team, will vastly improve the flow of information throughout the project.
They can keep your team up to date on the project’s progress, as well as any hurdles that may arise. When you’re worried about a large-scale project, it’s important to have someone who knows what they’re doing and knows how to communicate efficiently and effectively, in a way that keeps everybody calm and informed.
If you have any questions, concerns, or even changing requirements, your NetSuite implementation partner is there to assist you every step of the way. Whether you’re working for eight hours or twelve, you can be sure that all your concerns will be addressed.
Do You Need a NetSuite Implementation Partner?
“Do I actually need an implementation partner?” This is a question asked by many companies that are new to NetSuite and decide to take on an ERP implementation.
For many companies, the idea of saving money by self-implementing can sound tempting, but the truth is that most times, a NetSuite self-implementation can end up costing companies so much more than an implementation partner would. And, it can cost them in more ways than one.
While you may be able to get the implementation done, the cost, in terms of resources and time, can be detrimental to your business. Not to mention, doing it without the expertise of an implementation team will make it more difficult to make sure your NetSuite is aligned with your business practices, and will also make it more difficult to overcome any unexpected obstacles.
After all, when you go to a professional, you’re getting the complete package.
To learn more about NetSuite self-implementation, check out our article below:
How to Find the Right NetSuite Implementation Partner
Just look at the results, choosing the right implementation partner is crucial to the success of your ERP project. Your implementation partner will guide your implementation and integration process, train your team, and also stick around to support you in the future.
There are many competitors out there and not all of them will align with your vision for the future of your company’s infrastructure. Choosing the wrong implementation partner is one of the main reasons why implementations fail.
To help you find the right partner for your implementation project, we've compiled a list of helpful tips and important items to add to your checklist. Check it out in the link below:
GURUS’ Solutions: North American’s Largest NetSuite Partner
We know the benefits of a NetSuite implementation partner because we are one, and we’ve seen companies struggle through implementations without one.
As a NetSuite Partner, GURUS specializes in everything from implementation, integration, and training to rescues, support and custom solutions.
Our team boasts:
- A specialized process for optimizing your daily operations with reduced risk.
- 14+ years of experience working with NetSuite and the Cloud.
- 5-Star NetSuite Partner for 8 years in a row.
- A unique & collaborative approach to any project.
- Experience with a vast number of industries.
- Over 2100 successful projects completed.
- Resources across all of North America.
Are you looking into an ERP project? Talk to a Guru specialist today!
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