A good sports coach doesn’t just show up, call a few shots and leave.
They get to know your players, understand your strategy and play to everyone’s strengths. Over the long haul, this gets the team to perform at its best.
Working with a good NetSuite consultant is a bit like this. You need someone who implements not just ‘good ideas’ but ‘the best ideas for your business’.
Get this choice wrong, and it’s like having a coach who doesn’t know or love the game. You’ll end up wasting time, energy and resources trying to fix issues that could have been avoided.
This article explores what makes a great NetSuite consultant and how to ensure you’ve got the right person in charge of your ERP game plan.
Why NetSuite expertise matters more than ever
NetSuite is powerful but complex. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution; each business requires something tailored to its specific needs. That is, after all, what gives you your USPs. A NetSuite consultant is critical in turning that flexibility into a tool that helps your company grow.
Without the right expertise, implementation quickly goes wrong. While the software package comes from NetSuite, your consultant should ensure it’s implemented in a practical way for your business.
So, where do you begin? Start by asking potential consultants about their certifications.
NetSuite offers certifications in areas like SuiteCloud Development, Financials and ERP. Certifications are, of course, extremely important and a good indicator of someone’s skill set, but they don’t tell the whole story. NetSuite has different levels of certification, from SuiteFoundation (for foundational knowledge) to more specific ones like SuiteCloud for developers and Financials for accountants.
Experience matters just as much, and you should expect to see hands-on experience in your industry and with businesses of your size. Real-world experience gives consultants the ability to think outside the box when issues arise. Because arise they inevitably will.
It’s not just about NetSuite – understanding your business is key
Technical skills are just the foundation. You’ll also need someone who understands not only the platform itself but also your industry, your unique processes and how to integrate it with your other tools. From inventory management to accounting, a NetSuite consultant needs to dive deep into how your company works, now and in the future. This is crucial to ensuring the system is set up to support your processes rather than forcing you to adjust to the software.
Ask potential consultants about their approach to business process analysis. You want to know that they’re not just going to configure the system based on a standard set of assumptions. They should ask the right questions about your processes and really listen to your answers. Look for someone who offers solutions to fit your business, not a cookie-cutter package. Business process analysis typically occurs early in the implementation phase and ensures that the consultant understands the specific workflows you need, allowing for a smoother configuration.
Communication skills are equally important here. A good NetSuite consultant won’t just write code or design workflows. They’ll need to translate complex technical details into something your team can understand. A good consultant ensures everyone is on the same page, which can be the difference between smooth adoption and a system nobody wants to use.
Building a lasting relationship through NetSuite
The real value of a NetSuite consultant isn’t in the immediate setup. It’s in the long-term relationship they build with you. You’ll need someone who doesn’t just disappear after the go-live date but continues to provide support as your business evolves.
When selecting a consultant, think long-term. They should offer ongoing support. This could manifest itself in several ways, such as regular check-ins, troubleshooting or custom updates to the system as your needs change.
Ask about their support options after the initial implementation.
What happens if you run into problems a few months down the line?
Do they offer training or resources to make sure your team stays up-to-date with the latest features and best practices?
What if you have to make a sudden drastic change to your processes (such as opening a new product line)?
Cultural fit is another often overlooked factor in this relationship. You need a partner who understands your company culture and works in a way that suits your team. Again, this means different things to different organisations.
Do you value collaboration and work ethic?
A laid-back, stress-free approach for long-term durability? Do you expect someone to be on call 24/7?
The right fit might make all the difference for your relationship with your NetSuite consultant.
Making the right choice sets you on the path to success
When it comes down to it, finding the right NetSuite consultant isn’t just about ticking off a list of credentials. It’s about building a relationship with someone who understands your game plan, communicates well with all players, and will be there for the entire season.
If you’re ready to talk to experts who truly understand how to tailor NetSuite to your business, we’re here to help. Get in touch with SuiteSparkle today and take the first step toward an ERP solution that grows with your company.