Why optimise your NetSuite ERP system?

With the average cost of an ERP system ranging from £120k to £587k* you will want to make sure you’re getting full value from your investment. If your NetSuite ERP system isn’t performing as efficiently as possible this could be a drain on your finance team’s productivity. You might not be using NetSuite to its fullest potential and if performance issues are left unchecked, these could lead to operational problems and wasted resources.

Situations that might require NetSuite optimisation

There are many reasons why some system optimisation may be needed.

Your business needs might simply have changed since the ERP was originally brought in

Often, due to business growth, the processes which were implemented originally may no longer be right for you now. This can happen when a company adds new subsidiaries, or the organisational structure changes through mergers and acquisitions.

Only partially implemented

Due to the nature of ERP implementations such as NetSuite, they can be so complex that they have only partially been implemented. We come across many companies that haven’t been properly guided through the implementation process, so some phases of the process and certain modules haven’t been fully completed.

Lack of awareness of NetSuite’s full capabilities

If you aren’t a seasoned NetSuite user your limited experience might mean you aren’t taking full advantage of what the system has to offer. In other words, you don’t know what you don’t know. In which case, it’s a good idea to bring in an ERP consultant to review how your ERP can be adapted to your needs now and for the future.

What’s the process for optimising NetSuite?

Let’s assume you have been using NetSuite for some time and you know that some optimisation work is required. Chris Duffy, CTO at at C&J ERP Consulting recommends the following process:

• Carry out a full system audit to understand how the system has been configured. Once the current system has been assessed the task is to identify where there is room for improvement.

• Hold workshop sessions with each of the key users to understand what they do on a day-to-day basis within the system. Identify pain points and understand the specifics of the business to gauge where the challenges are. This stage is important as users will get onboard if they can see that the system is benefiting them rather than being a hindrance.

• Identify areas of wasted resource and inefficiency.

• Following the above, identify quick wins. Whether it is disabling features which aren’t being used to tidy up the system, or enabling features which will save time and money, there are always quick wins that can be found.

• Develop an actionable plan considering process redesign, configuration improvements and training. As a longer-term objective redefine processes to streamline how each of the users are using the system. This should include priorities and agreed plans with full guidance and training.

What are the benefits of optimising NetSuite?

Most optimisation projects see a boost in operational effectiveness, which gives time and money back to the business that can be spent elsewhere. Your users will enjoy experiencing less hassle, through better organised processes and have fewer frustrations as a result. You might even find that you have a happier, more dedicated finance team, who are less likely to move on after a period of time if their day-to-day work is enjoyable and fulfilling.

As a business you should be able to save money in the medium term through a reduction in system maintenance costs, and you can take full advantage of all the features you are paying for.

Why engage C&J ERP for NetSuite optimisation projects?

Technical expertise in ERP solution design and implementation. We live and breathe ERP; we have a combined 50 years of experience in ERP.

We know the NetSuite system inside out because we are used to carrying out projects end to end, from the initial scoping phase of a project to go-live and post go-live support, for a wide range of companies and industry sectors.

Deep knowledge of NetSuite with all the NetSuite accreditations as well as being CIMA accountancy qualified and Prince2 project management qualified.

At C&J ERP Consulting we are proud of our collaborative approach and long-term partnership with clients. We love working on NetSuite optimisation and implementation projects.

Find out more

If you’d like to find out more, read our NetSuite client testimonials and book a free initial consultation.

* Source: ERP Focus, March 2024