4 essential NetSuite ERP training strategies

Marinka Rohlffs, Christine Cameron
| 5/9/2023
4 essential NetSuite ERP training strategies

Implementing new technologies is an entirely different experience than it used to be.

Spreadsheets and documents were straightforward, but they offered only a few opportunities for customization. Some forms of documentation were purely manual – paper and pen! – with just a single employee as the source of truth. Today, enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions are different, and they require a more hands-on approach in implementation throughout their use.

For C-level executives or business process owners, the decision to switch to or start fresh with an ERP solution is a big one. Is it possible to invest in people and processes, save time and frustration, and support greater business growth – all with one solution?

In short, yes. NetSuite ERP automates manual processes, connects disparate systems, and offers greater insight into business data so its users can work more efficiently and effectively. But to get the most value out of a NetSuite ERP investment, training the team on its abilities should be a top priority.

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NetSuite ERP training is essential to success

NetSuite ERP offers the most benefit when used correctly and to its fullest potential. However, it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it solution. NetSuite ERP implementation and training require time, effort, and ongoing commitment.

Crowe specialists have implemented hundreds of NetSuite ERP systems for companies in various industries, and we have learned a few things along the way. These four strategies can help organizations get the most out of the solution.

1. Select the right implementation consultant for universal benefit.

It’s important for a business to look for a knowledgeable consultant to help implement and train internal teams on using the NetSuite ERP platform. The implementation process requires more than simply transferring data and learning to navigate the interface.

A reputable, experienced consultant knows the multiple implementation methods and works to understand a business’s current landscape and processes while moving toward optimized workflows. Organizations need a consultant that can implement the new system, walk leadership and end users through its use, and streamline processes to fit key business objectives.

2. Embrace change management for maximum efficiency.

Organizational change management is critical when implementing new technology that will affect multiple teams and processes across business units. Leadership buy-in and end-user support are key to successful NetSuite ERP training.

An effective consultant can help identify leaders and team members to make sure the right people are on board from the start. Every business has unique technology challenges and obstacles, so having a strategy in place for who is involved (and to what degree) at every interval is a good idea.

3. Choose the right NetSuite ERP training approach for your business. 

Because team members learn differently, businesses can benefit from different training techniques based on current and new workflows. Buy-in at every level of the organization paired with a skilled implementation specialist can help businesses choose the right training approaches for their needs.

Mastering the platform requires in-depth NetSuite ERP training during the implementation process. Still, much of that training is limited to business process users and leadership. End-user training typically takes place right before the system is live. Once up and running, the platform offers various virtual or in-person training options. But businesses can also take advantage of a train-the-trainer approach, which allows a few people to become the sources of knowledge within the business so that operations can continue to run smoothly once the implementation specialist takes a step back.

4. Commit to continual learning.

Like most technology, NetSuite ERP is continually evolving, and as such, it needs updates. NetSuite typically releases two updates per year that might require additional training, ongoing acceptance throughout the organization, and a consultant relationship that understands how the updates might affect the business.

Crowe specialists alert clients about updates as they become available and check in with business reviews. These milestones are used as review periods that help determine whether features are fully optimized or if the business has grown or shifted in a way that might require new or different integrations.

We can help you set up NetSuite ERP specifically for wholesale distribution.

Crowe has already developed several solutions for the NetSuite platform to address the challenges and barriers to growth for our wholesale distributor clients. We can do it for you, too, in less time than you might expect.

NetSuite consulting services

NetSuite consulting services

Crowe helps businesses embrace their new ERP system

Our experience implementing many NetSuite ERP platforms gives us a unique perspective on what it takes to find value in the software’s capabilities. Crowe understands that no two businesses are alike, even within the same industry, and that each user interacts with the system differently. Our services evolve with your business and its needs every step of the way – from choosing the right ERP system to go-live to ongoing support.

If you’re considering a NetSuite ERP solution for your business, let us help you get the most out of your investment with in-depth, hands-on NetSuite ERP training.

Contact us

Marinka Rohiffs
Marinka Rohlffs
Managing Director, Consulting
people
Christine Cameron
Consulting