NetSuite Partners: Working with One Can Make or Break your Implementation

When it comes to an ERP implementation, you have several important decisions to make. Not only will you decide which ERP system is the best fit for your company, you will also decide whether or not to work with a solution provider/Value Added Reseller (VAR) and if so, which one. If you are considering the purchase of a NetSuite license, the good news for you is that there is an extensive network of NetSuite Solution Providers. In this post, we’ll explore how working with NetSuite partners can shape the outcome of your NetSuite initiative and how to go beyond the software to find the right partner for long-term success.

First thing’s first, what is a NetSuite Solution Provider?

Also referred to as NetSuite Partners, a NetSuite Solution Provider is a business application expert and/or consulting organization that provides expertise designed to deliver holistic ERP solutions for companies looking to leverage cloud based technologies to scale their businesses. Working with a NetSuite Solution Provider is an alternative to purchasing directly from NetSuite and allows you to purchase consulting and support services in addition to licensing the software.

How does Hiring a NetSuite Partner improve implementation outcomes?

When you choose to work with a NetSuite Solution Provider, you are accessing professionals with several years of experience implementing ERP solutions. They know what to do and what to avoid and how best to deploy the software based on your needs and goals. Here are a few ways that expertise is put to action:

#1: As an Advocate

NetSuite Solution Providers have the ability to advocate for the customer both prior to and after purchase (ongoing for years) so that there is a vested voice representing and giving additional authority to help with negotiations with the Software vendor.

#2: A Consistent Point of Contact

When you work with NetSuite Partners, you have access to a consistent team that is with you during all phases of your initiative, from pre-sale licensing negotiations to post-implementation support. With this model, your partner develops a deep understanding of your business and can offer the highest level of service, combining context with their expertise to give you the best strategic and tactical support.

#3: Accountability

A NetSuite Solution Provider provides relational consistency and in the best cases, involves a personal commitment from the ownership and staff toward long-term outcomes.  The same team makes that the promises, delivers on the promises, and is around to measure and be accountable for the result.

How can hiring the wrong solution provider lead to a less than desirable outcome?

Unfortunately, when it comes to implementing a new ERP system, the odds are not in your favor. According to Gartner, 75% of ERP projects fail. Knowing this, it would make sense to enlist a team of experts, wouldn’t it?

We’ve made several arguments in favor of working with NetSuite partners - because doing so can dramatically increase successful results from your ERP initiative. However, much like any other type of vendor or consultant that you might work with - you must evaluate your NetSuite Solution Provider in order ensure that their experience and capabilities are sufficient enough to fulfill your needs and that they are a good fit for your initiative, avoiding these common mistakes along the way. It’s not just about finding a partner, but finding the right provider to address your business needs and goals.

Have you worked with a NetSuite Implementation Partner as part of your ERP initiative? Share your experience in the comments section below.