How to Pick a Good NetSuite Consultant?

Choosing the right NetSuite consultant can make or break your ERP implementation. Whether you’re starting your NetSuite journey or optimizing an existing setup, the consultant you hire will directly impact your timelines, costs, and long-term ROI. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pick the right partner.

1. Start with Your Goals

Before evaluating consultants, clearly define your objectives:

• Implementation: Fresh implementation or migration from another ERP.
• Optimization: Streamlining existing workflows or fixing inefficiencies.
• Integrations: Connecting NetSuite to platforms like Shopify, Salesforce, or ShipStation.
• Custom Development: Automations, SuiteScript, or advanced custom reporting.

2. Look for Proven NetSuite Expertise

Not all consultants bring the same level of skill or experience. Look for qualities that signal deep, practical knowledge:

• Official Certifications: Certifications like SuiteFoundation, ERP Consultant, or Administrator credentials demonstrate a strong baseline of technical expertise and commitment to ongoing learning.
• Industry Experience: Consultants with experience in your industry—whether wholesale, manufacturing, non-profit, or SaaS—will understand your unique challenges and regulatory requirements.
• Proven Technical Skills: Look for consultants who can handle advanced SuiteScripts, Map/Reduce jobs, custom records, and integrations. Review their portfolio or case studies for examples of complex solutions.
• Understanding of Best Practices: The right consultant doesn’t just “do what you ask”—they guide you toward scalable, supportable solutions that follow NetSuite best practices.
• Multi-Subsidiary and OneWorld Expertise: If you’re a growing company with multiple entities, ensure the consultant has real-world OneWorld experience, including multi-currency, intercompany transactions, and consolidated reporting.
• Up-to-Date Knowledge: NetSuite evolves constantly with biannual releases. Ask how they stay current with new features, SuiteApp updates, and compliance changes.

The goal is to find a consultant who not only knows NetSuite technically but also understands how to tailor it to your business strategy and growth plans.

3. Evaluate Integration and Automation Capabilities

A modern business relies on multiple systems, so your consultant should ensure NetSuite fits seamlessly:

• Expertise with middleware like Celigo, Workato, or Boomi.
• Proven e-commerce and CRM integration experience.
• Knowledge of automation best practices to eliminate manual processes.

4. Assess Communication and Collaboration Skills

Technical skills are critical, but clear communication ensures a smooth process:

• Do they explain complex topics in plain language?
• Are they proactive in asking the right questions?
• Do they provide regular updates and transparent timelines?

5. Check Their Post-Go-Live Support

Success doesn’t end at go-live. A good consultant offers:

• Hypercare support during the initial weeks.
• Team training sessions and documentation.
• Ongoing optimization to adapt NetSuite as your business grows.

6. Ask the Right Questions

When interviewing potential partners, ask:

• “What industries have you worked with, and can you share case studies?”
• “How do you handle project management and communication?”
• “What’s your approach to customizations vs. out-of-the-box solutions?”
• “Do you provide documentation and training after go-live?”

7. Focus on Value, Not Just Cost

The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Instead, focus on:

• Track record of success: Look for consultants with a proven history of delivering projects on time and within scope for businesses similar to yours.
• Alignment with your business goals: The best consultants tailor their recommendations to help you meet strategic objectives, not just technical milestones.
• Long-term partnership potential: Choose a consultant who can grow with your business, supporting you with ongoing enhancements, new integrations, and process optimization.
• Transparent pricing: Quality consultants clearly explain what’s included, what’s extra, and what you can expect in terms of maintenance or future costs.
• Scalability and innovation: A high-value consultant anticipates your growth, designing solutions that scale and incorporating innovative practices to future-proof your ERP setup.

Paying a little more upfront for a consultant who delivers scalable, well-documented, and efficient solutions often saves significant time, frustration, and rework down the road.

Conclusion

The right NetSuite consultant is more than just a vendor—they’re a partner in your success. By vetting candidates for expertise, communication, and long-term value, you’ll ensure a smoother implementation and better ROI. Investing time in choosing the right consultant sets your business up for scalable, efficient, and future-ready operations in NetSuite.