After completing a NetSuite implementation, what’s next? Michaela, a Senior NetSuite Functional Consultant at SquareWorks Consulting, shares a timeline to guide you through the crucial steps after your “Go Live” moment.
With nearly four years of experience in ERP implementation and optimization, I’ve helped businesses navigate the post-implementation phase—a period often overlooked yet critical for long-term success. At SquareWorks, we know the real value of NetSuite comes from its continued improvement and alignment with business growth.
In a previous post, I highlighted effective strategies for a smooth and successful NetSuite implementation. Drawing from my experience, I offered insights into overcoming common challenges and setting up systems for success. Check it out for some practical tips.
At SquareWorks, we understand that the true measure of success in a NetSuite ERP implementation isn’t just about going live – it is about long–term success, efficiency and sustainability. After the initial excitement of “Go Live”, the real work begins i.e., continuous improvement and optimization to ensure the solution supports ongoing business growth. Here’s a brief timeline of what to expect after your implementation has been completed.
1. The Early Stages: Stabilizing the System
For the first 30 days post Go Live, the SquareWorks implementation team remains involved with clients to ensure any immediate issues are resolved.
- Monitoring & Troubleshooting: During the first few weeks, SquareWorks keeps a close eye on NetSuite’s performance. We monitor workflows, scripts and business processes to ensure everything is functioning as expected. If any performance issues arise, our team addresses them swiftly to ensure minimal disruption.
2. End User Support: Empowering Your Team to Succeed
While we’ve likely done extensive training during the implementation phase, post-Go Live is when true user adoption begins to take shape.
- On-Demand Training & Resources: We offer tailored support for end-users via three different tiers of NetSuite Premium Support Plans. SquareWorks’ Premium Support consultants are happy to offer refresher courses, one-on-one sessions, and bi-weekly check-ins. This helps your employees feel more confident and supported as they learn to navigate the new system.
- User Feedback & Engagement: After Go Live, it’s essential to engage with end users who are interacting with NetSuite daily. We encourage feedback to gauge any pain points or areas where users might feel they need additional support. This feedback is used to refine workflows and help users get the most out of the system.
3. Fine-Tuning: Aligning NetSuite with Evolving Needs
Once the system is in active use, SquareWorks’ Premium Support team works with clients to analyze and potentially refine their NetSuite environment.
- System Adjustments & Customizations: During the post-Go Live phase, you might find that certain processes need adjustments. SquareWorks helps clients fine-tune workflows, customize dashboards, and/or implement additional features to align NetSuite even more closely with business needs. We continue to strike the balance between utilizing out-of-the-box capabilities and customizing when necessary to avoid over-complicating the system.
4. Reporting: Harnessing Data for Business Intelligence
One of NetSuite’s most powerful features is its robust reporting and data analytics capabilities. Post-Go Live, it’s important to ensure data integrity and optimize reporting to help guide decision-making.
- Data Validation & Cleanup: As data enters the system, SquareWorks works with clients to ensure it remains clean, accurate, and up to date. We assist in running data checks to ensure that all the information in the system is correct and reflects real business activities.
- Enhancing Reporting & Dashboards: After Go Live, SquareWorks helps clients refine their dashboards, saved searches, and reports, ensuring they reflect real-time data in ways that align with business objectives. We tailor reports to help businesses extract actionable insights that drive informed decision-making.
5. Ongoing System Maintenance: Keeping NetSuite Running Smoothly
NetSuite is a cloud-based solution, meaning it receives regular updates and enhancements from Oracle. However, regular maintenance on your side is crucial to make sure the system remains aligned with your evolving business needs.
- Staying Current with NetSuite Updates: Oracle NetSuite releases new updates on a bi-annual basis, which may include new features, security patches, and system enhancements. SquareWorks’ Premium Support team helps clients stay informed about updates via Upgrade Impact Assessments. These reviews assess whether the client should adopt changes immediately or begin planning for future implementation.
6. Long-Term Success: Strategic Planning for Business Growth
At SquareWorks, we’re committed to our clients’ long-term success. Post-Go Live, we help clients use NetSuite as a strategic tool to drive growth, innovation, and efficiency.
- Strategic Advisory Services: We go beyond just technical support; we act as a trusted advisor to help clients align their NetSuite investment with their broader business strategy. Whether it’s expanding to new markets, improving supply chain management, or increasing operational efficiency, SquareWorks ensures that NetSuite remains a key asset in achieving your business goals.
The Journey Doesn’t End at Go Live
At SquareWorks, we believe that a successful NetSuite implementation isn’t just about hitting the “Go Live” button – it is about continuous improvement, constant optimization, and ongoing support. Post-Go Live, we work closely with clients to ensure that NetSuite evolves with their business, helping them unlock new efficiencies, make data-driven decisions, and achieve long-term success.
Want more tips for a successful NetSuite implementation? Watch our on-demand webinar here featuring a CFO who’s led three NetSuite implementations.
