When it comes to an ERP implementation, there are many details and steps to manage. This process can be overwhelming, time consuming, and sometimes even disappointing. After all, you can buy the very best software on the market but without a strong implementation, you may be missing out on all the benefits your solution can provide. How can you ensure that you are getting the most from your NetSuite investment?
NetSuite is a strong ERP platform that can give you full visibility and key analytics through the entire life cycle of your inventory. In turn, the ability to make decisions with data can increase efficiency by allowing you to be proactive instead of reactive. But any software implementation comes with many steps and details to manage. For this reason, many NetSuite users turn to a partner to help them as they make this investment.
NetSuite Partners: What's the difference?
There are three different categories that NetSuite partners can fall into. Partners come in all shapes and sizes and offer varying levels of service. However, all partners have one common goal: to provide software and services to the NetSuite community. Here are the key differences:
- NetSuite Alliance Partners: The Alliance Partner program consists of partners that provide NetSuite implementation services for clients. Alliance Partners are experts in their field and have a deep and unique understanding of NetSuite.
- NetSuite Solution Providers: NetSuite Solution Providers assist clients with both NetSuite licensing and services. Solution Providers have demonstrated accounting/ERP, CRM or ecommerce expertise delivered with proven methodologies that ensure your success.
- SuiteCloud Development Network (SDN): SDN partners are independent software vendors focused on building NetSuite extensions and applications on the SuiteCloud platform. SDN partners deliver Built-for-NetSuite applications for vertical industries or specific business processes.
Why Do I Need a SDN Partner?
As robust as NetSuite is, there may be specific functionality (such as Tax, Field Service or NetSuite WMS) that can be enhanced by working within the NetSuite partner community. If you’re looking for a partner to elevate your NetSuite investment, make sure that they are a part of the SuiteCloud Developer Network (SDN).
SDN partners really add value to NetSuite. Here are some reasons to consider finding a SDN partner:
Why Consider a NetSuite Partner?
There are so many challenges that can come with the initial implementation that you may not have identified. A NetSuite partner (whether Alliance, Solution or SDN) can contribute to successful implementations by:
- Identifying a project manager within your company: Communication is very important during implementations both internally and with you partner. When it comes to communication, identifying the right person (a project manager) is essential. Taking an active role in your implementation will ensure that you will have success with NetSuite for years to come.
- Helping with change management: Change management can be challenging, especially in situations where legacy processes are being challenged. However, change is key for any organization to grow. It can be both an exciting and scary time in your organization, but partners are there to alleviate some of that anxiety by supporting you through every step of the process.
- Providing training, development, and ongoing support: Training and development is something that SDN partners will ensure happens - it's all part of the transition to a successful go-live. SDN partners will train you and ensure your main administrator is on their way to becoming a super user.
Oftentimes, the most successful implementations have a partner associated with them. That's because a NetSuite partner can leverage their experience and specialization to help you navigate through the complexities that come with a software implementation. There are so many challenges to running an efficient business, but adding automation and technology to your business can help you expand and reach your goals in this ever changing and evolving environment. Partner up!Want to learn more? Listen to the podcast episode, Lessons Learned from More than 500 NetSuite Implementations:
About the Author: Ruth Rosenstock joined the RF-SMART team as a Partner Engagement Executive in 2020. Her previous experience includes working with both Oracle and NetSuite. Ruth has assisted more than 500 customers on their NetSuite journey.
