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NetSuite Implementation

Get NetSuite Implementation Services

NetSuite implementation is the process of planning, configuring, testing, and launching a NetSuite ERP environment built around your business. Our NetSuite implementation consultants help you make the important decisions along the way, from figuring out what NetSuite actually needs to do for your business to configuration, data migration, training, go-live, and post-launch support.

NetSuite Implementation Partner

Work With a Top Rated NetSuite Alliance Partner

Implementing NetSuite can get complicated quickly. A good NetSuite implementation partner helps you make the important decisions before they become expensive ones. We help you through the NetSuite evaluation process, from demos and licensing to NetSuite pricing and contract decisions, then put together a detailed implementation quote, so you know what you're getting into before the real work begins.

Why can't I just implement NetSuite myself?

Benefits of a NetSuite Implementation Consultant

Is it possible to self-implement without consultant support? Sure, it’s possible, but that doesn’t mean you should do it. You’ve got enough on your plate already, leading your company through the transition. You don’t need to also take on the stress of learning a new job outside your wheelhouse.

In fact, implementations are so complex that we have a separate training and apprenticeship process for our NetSuite ERP consultants before they can become implementation consultants. You can be a good NetSuite functional consultant but still be unequipped to lead implementations. There’s a whole additional set of skills required to pull off a NetSuite implementation well.

Many of our clients who implemented NetSuite before meeting us had a miserable implementation experience because their old NetSuite “support” did not guide or care for them. In many of those cases, the business ended up essentially implementing itself, since the “professional” support had failed them. Implementing NetSuite yourself, or mostly by yourself, is possible. But of those businesses we’ve asked, none of them would recommend that approach or wish to repeat that horrible experience;

100% of them wish they had just hired a solid NetSuite consulting firm instead.

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At Anchor Group, our team of experienced NetSuite consultants provides end-to-end NetSuite Implementation services, guiding you through every phase of the project:
  • Business process analysis
  • Solution design and customization
  • Data migration and cleansing
  • NetSuite integration with third-party tools
  • User training and change management
  • Go-live support and post-implementation optimization

Our NetSuite implementation consultants align the implementation of NetSuite with your specific goals to ensure maximum ROI.

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NetSuite Implementation vs. NetSuite Integration

Get NetSuite Implementation & NetSuite Integration Services in One Place

"NetSuite Integration" and "NetSuite Implementation" are two terms that you may hear people use interchangeably in reference to setting up NetSuite software for your business, but these terms actually refer to two different processes. The good news is that whether your business needs NetSuite Implementation services, NetSuite Integration services, or both, our team at Anchor Group is ready to help.

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NetSuite Implementation Definition

Implementing software means setting it up and using it for the first time. Sometimes “implementation” refers to an entire software program (NetSuite ERP Implementation). Sometimes you will hear “implementation” applied to just a module, part, or add-on of an already-implemented software product (NetSuite WMS module implementation).

In both cases, the software is used in a new way. Therefore, that software needs to be installed, accessed, turned on, configured, integrated, and loaded with historical data, all of which are parts of the implementation. During an implementation, some things need to happen outside the new software itself, often related to change management, such as understanding and documenting business goals related to the software, educating employees on using the software in ways specific to their roles, and communicating expectations to employees regarding the transition.

Get NetSuite Implementation Services >

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What is a NetSuite Integration?

A NetSuite integration connects your ERP to the other systems your business relies on every day. That might be your ecommerce platform, CRM, marketing software, shipping provider, warehouse management system, or something else entirely. The goal isn't simply to move data between systems. It's to make sure the right information is available where people need it, without creating extra manual work along the way.

Sometimes a pre-built connector is exactly the right answer. Other times, a custom integration makes more sense because your workflows don't fit the standard mold. We've implemented both. The important part isn't choosing the most sophisticated technology—it's understanding how information should flow through your business before deciding how it should flow between your systems. That's usually where a good integration starts.

NetSuite Integration List >

An Approach Developed Through Years of Implementing NetSuite

Our NetSuite Implementation Process

There isn’t one standard breakdown of the stages of an implementation. There’s more than one way to do it. At Anchor Group, our approach to the NetSuite Implementation process reduces risk, accelerates adoption, and ensures long-term success. Our structure and methodology are based on our experience of what makes a NetSuite implementation project run smoothly, and we continually refine our approach. What doesn't change, though, is our dedication to always providing the best solution to our clients.

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1. Outlining Your NetSuite Implementation

Our team will spend some time with you helping you determine which NetSuite solutions are necessary to implement and customize based on your industry and business needs.

Initial Analysis and Scheduling

  • Get a rough idea of what is to be done and when to do it. Build Gannt charts, etc.
  • Make a draft list of data reporting needs. Don’t stress about it at this point.
  • Discuss how much historical data needs to come over to NetSuite, and at what level of detail. The further back and the more detailed you go, the more work it takes.

Establishing Direction

  • Establish the “why” of the NetSuite Implementation project and the hierarchy of priorities.
  • This should also happen as part of the initial conversations, but typically the answers are more complete after the initial analysis phase. 

Introductory Client NetSuite Training

  • This only takes an hour or two in most cases. Basic navigational familiarity with the NetSuite structure and user interface will make the following conversations less frustrating. 
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2. Deep Analysis and Initial NetSuite Account Configuration

Our team will spend some time with you helping you determine which NetSuite products are necessary for your industry and business, thoroughly analyzing your business requirements. It might be worth it to utilize a custom solution rather than a module! If that is the case, you might save yourself thousands of dollars annually by avoiding an unnecessary licensing fee. This first step is where you will get a highly detailed estimate of your ERP implementation plan. You can count on our estimates to be incredibly detailed to the hour. Once we have determined the "what" of your NetSuite Implementation, we can iron out the "how".

In this stage of the NetSuite Implementation, we find a time to have a discussion with all the decision-makers in a single session. There are always things needed by your team. We will do the heavy lifting by guiding you through strategic decisions based on our experience in your industry.

In this stage it's important to really think carefully through each process flow. We guide our clients to start with the normative path (the way things go in ideal circumstances), and then address edge cases (return management, for instance). Our project managers will help iron out final details within the implementation process.

Pro tip: We've found that it's best to work ruthlessly to eliminate approval flows at this stage. Instead, seek to automate whatever is possible, trust your employees, and then do reviews/audits of the rest.
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3. Building the NetSuite Implementation Puzzle

This is the part most people think of when they think of an ERP Implementation. It's the part where our developers get to put your unique NetSuite implementation plan into action. We are going to dive into the configuration of every NetSuite module while automating data using workflows and SuiteScript to keep your employees working on the projects that keep your business profitable.

We can often start this build stage on certain areas of your ERP before the deep analysis is complete in all areas. During this phase, you will see the look of the forms, the look of the templates used for invoicing or other customer-facing documents, and finally...you will begin to see the entire product take shape.

  • Begin to set up the NetSuite account: Segmentation, the chart of accounts, primary configuration pages like Company Information, Enable Features, and Accounting Preferences.
  • Adding sample data: At this point, sample data will make it much easier to observe and tweak system behavior.
  • Reports and searches: Most of the reporting you will need is already there natively, but some will need to be custom-built.
  • Dashboards: This step is missed so often by other companies. The SuiteSuccess bundles are a decent place to start for role-specific dashboards, although they will typically only get you to the 80% mark.
  • Forms and PDF templates: Move fields and tabs around so that record forms are straightforward to interact with. Remove fields whenever possible. Customize your PDF templates (Invoice, etc.) early in the implementation, as there are seldom big dependencies you need to wait on.
  • Customizations: With the core structure established in your NetSuite account, now we can work on custom tasks such as tailoring workflows, roles, and reports to your operational needs. For each one, we follow this flow: Document requirements > Develop > User feedback and refinement cycle > Deploy and update documentation
  • Test. Test. Test. Finally, our team will test the heck out of your NetSuite environment to ensure that there is no stone left unturned in the implementation process!
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4. NetSuite User Acceptance Testing

Our teams conduct rigorous user acceptance testing, ensuring that the implemented system meets the highest standards of functionality and usability.

In this stage, people who will be utilizing NetSuite to manage processes will have the opportunity to test the system and give input on what works, as well as what would make it more effective in their day-to-day lives. This feedback is essential to your employee buy-in of the finished product. We can work with your decision makers to create a plan to implement any automation that would make their lives easier, often placing these on the roadmap for future customizations if they are not necessary for go-live.

In this stage of the NetSuite Implementation, we recommend that our clients help us ensure system readiness by confirming that they can do all the things they want to be able to do in the ERP system. Our consultants can help guide you here, but they can’t actually do this part for you.

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5. User Walkthroughs and NetSuite Training

Up until now only some of your employees have been involved in the NetSuite implementation. Now it's time to catch everyone up to speed. This stage is the perfect opportunity for our consultants to run training sessions for your employees on how to use NetSuite, empowering users to get the most out of the tailored NetSuite solutions that we put in place.

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6. Detailed Planning for Go-live Day

The NetSuite go-live date will be a big day! It's important to decide ahead of time who does what and when. Planning well ahead of time allows you to make adjustments and answer important questions such as: Do you need to pause any operations the day of go-live?

Once the plan has been established, it is important that these plans are communicated to all employees who will be affected when you flip the switch and start using NetSuite.

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7. Data Import to NetSuite

Data migration is one of the most important parts of a NetSuite implementation, and it's one we never recommend rushing. We've found that performing a trial import before go-live helps uncover issues while there's still time to address them. Sometimes the challenge is extracting data from a legacy system. Other times it's identifying duplicate, incomplete, or outdated information before it moves into NetSuite. Taking the time to validate and clean your data upfront helps create a smoother launch and gives your team greater confidence in the new system from day one.

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8. Launch / Go-Live with NetSuite!

Go-live is an exciting milestone, but it's also one of the busiest days of the entire implementation. That's why our consultants stay closely involved, helping answer questions, support users, and resolve issues as your team begins working in NetSuite. Good preparation makes a significant difference, and we encourage clients to approach launch day with realistic expectations, a well-rested team, and a little room to celebrate everything that's been accomplished along the way.

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9. Support Post NetSuite Go-Live

The first few weeks after go-live are when people begin building confidence in the new system. It's completely normal for employees to have questions, discover opportunities for improvement, or need help adjusting to new processes. We'll continue working alongside your team during this transition, providing practical support, resolving issues as they arise, and helping you get the most value from your NetSuite investment as your business settles into its new way of working.

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10. Begin Phase 2 NetSuite Projects

Wait... The implementation is done, right? Your NetSuite Implementation is complete, yes. But, realistically there will be things you want to add onto the NetSuite ERP system to make it be even more efficient for you. Your business will always be changing, and you may have decided to place certain things on the roadmap for after your initial go-live.

So what's next? An ERP is an ever-evolving, living system. It needs maintenance and ongoing investment. How can your NetSuite environment support your business even better in the future? If you haven't already, this is a great time to add more channels of revenue through an ecommerce website or a customer portal. We can help with that too!

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NETSUITE IMPLEMENTATION COST

What Would Your NetSuite Implementation Cost?

Every NetSuite implementation is a little different, and now you've seen what goes into one. We'll build a detailed NetSuite implementation quote around what your business actually needs, with estimates broken down to the hour so you can see what the work will involve and where the cost is coming from.

NetSuite Implementation Timeline

How Long Does an Implementation of NetSuite Take?

The fastest reasonable timeline to implement NetSuite for most companies is 3-4 months, although we’re aware of even faster hero pushes. Larger or more leisurely NetSuite implementation projects might take a year or more. For most of our clients at Anchor Group, we typically create a NetSuite implementation timeline that is approximately 6-7 months long.

For a breakdown of what may affect the schedule of a NetSuite Implementation, as well as some of the advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches to implementation project timelines, check out this article.

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NETSUITE IMPLEMENTATION EXPERTISE

Get a NetSuite Implementation Built Around Your Business

Choosing the right NetSuite implementation partner shouldn't mean choosing between personal attention and experienced specialists. Your NetSuite implementation consultant takes the time to understand how your business actually works, while our developers, accountants, and ecommerce specialists bring in the right expertise when it's needed. The result is a NetSuite implementation that fits your business, without getting passed from one team to another.

ERP Implementation, A Challenge to be Excited About

ERP implementations often produce the most challenging experiences that a company ever has with software. Since an ERP implementation is basically a brain transplant for your business, it shouldn’t be surprising that it is tricky to pull off smoothly. That doesn’t mean you should get discouraged! Just because ERP implementations are difficult doesn’t mean they have to be frustrating.

As long as you do it right, an ERP implementation will be challenging, but in a good way.

A successful ERP Implementation will force you to understand your business processes and priorities more deeply, which will help any business drive long-term success. At Anchor Group, our NetSuite consultants collaborate with your team to analyze workflows, identify improvements, and design streamlined processes aligned with your objectives. Our NetSuite developers then bring these solutions to life during the implementation process.

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Gathering Requirements for a NetSuite Implementation

A Crucial Step for a Successful Implementation

It would be misleading to say that in a NetSuite implementation, there are totally separate and distinct stages for (1) requirement gathering and then (2) execution. While we certainly do have stages in our NetSuite implementation process that are mostly about requirement gathering and analysis, and later stages that are mostly for building, testing, and training, the reality is more like peeling an onion. Each conversation you have with our team at Anchor Group uncovers another layer, providing a deeper understanding of your business's needs and goals.

This means that gathering requirements well requires seeing it as an iterative process. In terms of project management styles, we like to use some elements of agile rather than the pure waterfall method.

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NetSuite Implementation Risks and Mitigation Techniques

Anchor Group's NetSuite Experts Can Help You Navigate The Challenges of a NetSuite Implementation

ERP implementations are like brain surgery for your business. So, yes, there are risks with implementations. Luckily, we’ve seen enough implementations that we’ve got a pretty good idea of how to manage those risks.

NetSuite implementation-related risks come in four main forms:  

  • Process risks
  • Adoption risks
  • Timeline risks
  • Budget risks

Our team has faced all of these before, and has discovered mitigation techniques to help our clients navigate each one.

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What Makes a NetSuite Implementation Successful?

The Path to a Smooth Implementation of NetSuite

You’re asking the right question, that’s for sure. Different elements are part of a successful recipe at different stages in the implementation. I’ll assume you are near the beginning of your journey, in the early, preparatory stages. So, the question becomes, “How do I prepare for a NetSuite Implementation?”

Luckily, there are just two things for you to focus on right now. You can worry about the other stages later. For now, just do these two things to prepare for your NetSuite Implementation:

Step 1: Find a trustworthy implementation partner.   
Step 2: Assemble your internal implementation team. 

Check out this article to learn more.

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Support For Your NetSuite ERP implementation

Common NetSuite Implementation Services

Below are just a few of the consulting and development services commonly included in the NetSuite Implementation process at Anchor Group. This is far from an exhaustive list of the NetSuite services we offer, so if you don't see what you're looking for, be sure to get in touch with our team.

Custom NetSuite Development

When standard NetSuite functionality doesn't fit the requirement, our NetSuite developers can build what does. Our custom NetSuite development services cover SuiteScript, automation, custom records, user interfaces, and other technical solutions designed to solve complex requirements without adding unnecessary complexity to your ERP.

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Pre-built NetSuite Customizations

Not every problem needs a solution built from scratch. Our NetSuite developers have created scripts, extensions, apps, and other NetSuite customizations that can be tailored to your business giving you a proven starting point while leaving room for the requirements that make your organization different.

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NetSuite Integration Services

Your systems should exchange information without creating extra work for your team. Our NetSuite integration services connect NetSuite with Shopify, BigCommerce, CRMs, WMS platforms, EDI providers, and other business systems so data moves reliably and your team spends less time on duplicate entry.

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NetSuite Customer Portal

Are you using NetSuite's customer center to let your customers place orders? We can make the portal function like an ecommerce website, providing your customers with a streamlined checkout process.

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NetSuite Functional Consultants

Need help implementing a NetSuite solution or formulating a strategic architectural design? Our consultants know the ins and outs of the ERP system, enabling them to build you a solution that resolves all your pain points. You get a dedicated, responsive NetSuite implementation consultant who is available for questions and solution integrations.

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NetSuite Module Implementation

Adding a new NetSuite module shouldn't mean figuring it out on your own. Our NetSuite module implementation services help you configure and launch the functionality your business needs. And when an out-of-the-box module doesn't quite fit, we can customize it around your requirements.

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ERP Implementation Support

Ready to Start Your NetSuite Implementation Journey?​​

The implementation of NetSuite is a critical step toward operational efficiency and scalable growth. During your NetSuite implementation, there are many options on how to modify NetSuite. Trust an experienced NetSuite implementation consultant to guide you through a successful NetSuite implementation that meets your business requirements. Contact us today to speak with an expert and start planning your NetSuite implementation.

NetSuite Implementation Reviews

Why Choose Anchor Group?

See what people have to say about our NetSuite implementation services.

Anchor Group is unmatched when it comes to SuiteCommerce & NetSuite implementation. The team was professional, responsive, and produced a seamless integration of NetSuite & SuiteCommerce when we decided to make the switch.

Connor Bolin

GoodFirms Review

Danielle Geggis Perfume Price 2

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dom Meyer from Anchor Group on several NetSuite implementation projects, and I can't say enough good things about him.

Danielle Geggis

Google Review

Anchor Group was extremely helpful in our implementation of NetSuite. Mitchell Klar was very responsive and easy to work with. He was very organized and had a strong knowledge base of how NetSuite works. He was able to customize NetSuite to our needs and increase the value return for our company.

Aaron Scrivens

Google Review

Tripp Perkins CPC

Mitch has been super helpful in getting us back on track with NetSuite customizations/implementation of WIP/Routings. He is super knowledgeable, and it didn't take long to pick up on our processes and understand our manufacturing processes.

Tripp Perkins

Google Review

Anchor Group has been instrumental in helping our company transition to NetSuite and Suite Commerce. We couldn't have done it without Ben Galvin and Joe Gagliardi's expertise. They have all been a pleasure to work with. If you need a consulting partner for NetSuite implementation I would highly recommend reaching out to them.

Jeff Carnevale

Google Review

Certified NetSuite Alliance Partner

Why Choose Anchor Group as Your NetSuite Implementation Partner?

As a Certified NetSuite Alliance Partner, we follow NetSuite best practices while tailoring the implementation to your unique needs. NetSuite implementation consultants work closely with clients to analyze existing workflows, identify areas for improvement, and design streamlined processes that align with their business objectives. Our NetSuite developers then bring these tailored solutions to life during your NetSuite Implementation.

Our team brings deep functional and technical expertise to NetSuite Implementations, ensuring your ERP system supports your workflows from day one:

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    Professional NetSuite developer support with proven NetSuite deployment methodology

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    Scalable solutions for future business growth

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    Fast, reliable full lifecycle support—before, during, and after go-live

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    Dedicated and responsive NetSuite consultants

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    NetSuite module implementation services

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    Integrations with 3rd Party Software Solutions

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    NetSuite Ecommerce implementation services for B2B & B2C companies

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    NetSuite & SuiteCommerce Apps: Scripts, Themes, Extensions, and Other Useful Customizations

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NetSuite Alliance Partner Spotlight Award

Recognized for our NetSuite Implementation Expertise

We stand out among NetSuite partners because of our expertise and dedication to delivering implementations that drive business growth. In the Summer of 2024, Anchor Group was recognized by NetSuite as the Alliance Partner Spotlight Winner for Epicor Switch for our work implementing NetSuite for Kees, Incorporated.

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Meet some of our 50+ team

Our NetSuite Implementation Team

Here are some of the NetSuite experts who might be on your NetSuite Implementation team if you choose to work with Anchor Group.

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Dominick Meyer

NetSuite Consultant

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Grant Steele

NetSuite Consultant

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Ben Galvin

NetSuite Consultant

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Kevin Ronczkowski

NetSuite Consultant

benjamin gagliardi

Benjamin Gagliardi

NetSuite Developer

nathan wiley

Nathan Wiley

NetSuite ERP Team Lead

terry nelson senior account executive

Terry Nelson

NetSuite Account Manager

USA-Based NetSuite Implementation Partner

Work With an On-shore Implementation Team

Our team is based in Wisconsin and provides NetSuite implementation services to companies across the United States. You'll work with USA-based NetSuite consultants, developers, accountants, and ecommerce specialists who understand your project and can bring in the right expertise when it's needed. From implementation planning through go-live and ongoing support, you get a team that stays involved and knows what's happening across your project.

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NetSuite Implementation FAQs

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