NetSuite is a powerful cloud-based ERP system that offers a wide range of features and benefits to businesses of all sizes.

It streamlines processes, improves efficiency and provides real-time visibility into key performance indicators. However, to fully leverage NetSuite’s potential, it’s crucial to understand the learning curve associated with the platform.

This blog explores the factors influencing the learning curve and the challenges your users may face, and provides practical tips to make the learning process easier and boost user adoption.

The NetSuite learning curve

The learning curve for NetSuite varies depending on several factors, such as the user’s technical background, role within the organisation and previous experience with ERP systems.

Users with a strong technical foundation and prior experience with similar platforms may find it easier to navigate NetSuite’s features and functionalities. However, those new to ERP systems may require more time and effort to become proficient.

Compared to other ERP systems, NetSuite’s learning curve is generally considered ‘moderate’. The platform offers a user-friendly interface and intuitive navigation, making it relatively easier to learn than some of its competitors. However, the timeframe for becoming proficient in NetSuite can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your business processes and the depth of knowledge required. 

Challenges in learning NetSuite

Navigating the user interface and menus is one of the primary challenges in learning NetSuite. The platform offers a wide array of features and functionalities, which can be overwhelming for new users. Familiarising yourself with the various modules, such as accounting, inventory management and customer relationship management (CRM) takes time and practice.

Another challenge is understanding NetSuite’s terminology and jargon. The platform uses specific terms and acronyms that may be unfamiliar to users coming from different backgrounds. It’s essential to learn and understand these terms to effectively communicate with other NetSuite users and support teams.

Adapting to new processes and workflows can also be a challenge. NetSuite may introduce new ways of handling tasks and procedures, which can be different from your organisation’s existing practices. Embracing these changes and aligning your processes with NetSuite’s best practices is crucial for successful adoption.

Mastering its advanced features and customisations requires a deeper understanding of the platform. NetSuite offers a wide range of customisation options, such as custom fields, forms and scripts, which can be complex to set up and maintain. Users who want to leverage these advanced features may need additional training and support.

Tips to make learning NetSuite easier

When starting the NetSuite learning journey, it’s essential to focus on the core functionalities that are relevant to your users’ roles. They should begin by understanding the key modules and features that they’ll use on a daily basis. This targeted approach will help them build a strong foundational understanding of the system and avoid becoming overwhelmed with unnecessary information.

They should gradually progress to more advanced features only as they become comfortable with the basics. Taking the time to explore each module in depth, understand its purpose and how it integrates with other parts of the system is essential. This incremental learning approach will make the process more manageable and less daunting. 

Utilise NetSuite’s learning resources

NetSuite provides a wealth of learning resources to help users master the platform. The NetSuite Help Centre offers comprehensive documentation, user guides and how-to articles that cover various aspects of the system. You and your users should use these resources to find answers to your questions and deepen your understanding of specific features.

The NetSuite Learning Cloud is another valuable resource that offers online training courses and certifications. Its courses are designed to cater to different roles and skill levels, from beginners to advanced users. Investing time in these training programs will accelerate the learning process and provide structured guidance.

Engaging with the NetSuite community forums and user groups is also an excellent way to learn from the experiences of others. These platforms allow you and your users to connect with fellow NetSuite users, ask questions and share best practices. Participating in these communities can provide valuable insights to overcome common challenges.

Seek guidance from NetSuite experts

Working with a specialist NetSuite implementation partner like SuiteSparkle can significantly ease your learning journey. Our experts have in-depth knowledge of the platform and can provide tailored guidance based on your specific needs. We can help you navigate NetSuite’s complexities, offer best practice tips and provide hands-on training to your team.

Leveraging the knowledge of experienced NetSuite users within your organisation is also valuable. Identify your power users or NetSuite champions in your company and seek their guidance. They can share their insights, tips and tricks with colleagues to help them learn the platform more effectively. 

Practice, practice, practice

To become proficient in NetSuite, it’s crucial to practice regularly. Encourage your team to explore the platform in a sandbox environment, where they can experiment with different features and functionalities without affecting live data. This hands-on experience will help your users gain confidence and familiarise themselves with the system.

Provide your team with hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios that mirror your business processes. It will help them understand how NetSuite fits into their daily tasks and workflows. Encourage them to ask questions, make mistakes and learn from their experiences.

Customise NetSuite to your needs

One way to reduce the learning curve is to tailor NetSuite to your specific business requirements. Customising the user interface, workflows and reports can make the platform more intuitive and user-friendly for your team.

Work with a NetSuite expert like SuiteSparkle to identify areas where customisation can streamline your processes and simplify tasks. Creating custom fields, forms and dashboards that align with your business terminology and practices can make the platform feel more familiar and easier to navigate.

Simplifying the user experience by removing unnecessary fields, tabs or features can also help reduce the learning curve. Focus on providing your users with a clean and clutter-free interface that highlights the essential information and actions they need to perform their roles effectively.