NetSuite is scalable and flexible, catering to the needs of SMEs and large corporations across various industries. From financial management to CRM, ecommerce and beyond, NetSuite integrates core business functions into a single, unified platform.

Yet, beneath its surface lie lesser-known functions that can unlock even greater potential. Beyond its core functionality, you’ll find many hidden features to optimise your NetSuite platform, transforming how you manage your business processes and data.

This blog post explores some of the hidden features you might not have encountered before and how they could benefit your organisation.

#1 Advanced saved searches

One NetSuite’s best hidden gems is its advanced saved searches capability. While most people will be familiar with basic searches, using advanced search features takes this to the next level. They allow for complex queries across multiple record types, enabling users to pinpoint specific information quickly and efficiently.

For instance, you could save NetSuite searches regarding key frequent business operations, such as tracking sales trends by region or analysing customer buying patterns over time, saving time and providing valuable insights for strategic decision-making.

#2 Custom KPI scorecards

Effective decision-making is all about having the correct data at your fingertips. NetSuite’s custom KPI scorecards allow users to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) in real-time through personalised dashboards.

Crucially, you can configure scorecards to display metrics relevant to your business goals, such as sales targets, financial ratios or operational efficiencies. For optimal personalisation, streamline these dashboards to specific departments or even individual workers.

This feature facilitates visibility and proactive management by highlighting areas that require attention. The result is a culture of addressing issues before they become problems.

#3 Workflow automation tools

Modern business operations are all about efficiency. NetSuite offers powerful workflow tools for automating repetitive or complex tasks. Your IT department or consultant can configure workflows to trigger actions based on predefined conditions, reducing manual intervention and ensuring consistency in operations.

For instance, you could automate the creation of purchase orders once your inventory reaches a preset level, create follow-up emails for potential leads after a certain time, or send notifications when invoices become overdue.

#4 Built-in analytics features

NetSuite’s built-in analytics capabilities are fantastic tools for data analysis and reporting. And yet, in our experience, these features are often underutilised. Harnessing these capabilities can help you gain actionable insights into performance trends, financial forecasts, customer behaviour and much more. Customisable reports and dashboards give your stakeholders the ability to visualise realistic, impactful data, facilitating data-driven decision-making across all levels of the organisation.

#5 Customisation options for dashboards and reports

Every business has unique reporting needs. NetSuite offers extensive customisation options for dashboards and reports. Using these features, users could tailor layouts, graphs and data visualisations to suit specific requirements.

Whether you need to create executive summaries, financial statements or operational performance reports, NetSuite’s flexibility means there’s always a format for you to present clear, concise and actionable information.

#6 Productivity-boosting tools

NetSuite boosts user productivity with several tools. Here are a few examples: keyboard shortcuts for quick navigation and data entry (once users get the hang of them), bulk processing features to simplify tasks such as importing records and advanced PDF templates that offer consistent, customisable document layouts. These templates ensure that customer invoices, purchase orders and other documents showcase your brand identity while meeting professional standards effectively.

#7 Integration capabilities

NetSuite goes beyond its basic features via its integration capabilities. Surprisingly, many users aren’t aware of how well it connects with other systems and apps. Whether you’re using third-party CRM tools, ecommerce platforms or industry-specific solutions, NetSuite’s API ensures seamless data exchange and synchronisation. Integrating external data sources gives you a holistic view of your business operations across all systems simultaneously.

SuiteSparkle, NetSuite and you

NetSuite offers tremendous benefits to businesses through its customisation options.

To gain further insights on maximising your NetSuite investment and discovering tailored solutions for your business needs, consider partnering with SuiteSparkle. With over eight years of specialist NetSuite expertise, Michaela and her team adopt a friendly, collaborative approach. We invest time in understanding your business, its goals and its current operations, enabling us to make practical NetSuite adjustments that streamline your workflows and boost productivity.