Last Modified: February 1st, 2022
3 min read
Implementing NetSuite ERP is a daunting task. It’s important to keep in mind that there are many things you should do before, during, and after the implementation process. To help make this easier for you, we have put together some helpful tips/best practices on how to successfully implement NetSuite ERP into your business.
1. Make sure everyone understands their role and the cadence
Make sure everyone understands their role and the cadence. The success of the implementation is dependent on having a clear understanding of the process and roles. As there are multiple stakeholders in this project, so it’s important to understand who does what before you start any sprints.
2. Adhere to the cadence at all costs
Adhere to the cadence at all costs. If you must cancel a sprint then cancel a sprint. But get right back on your cadence as soon as possible. It is imperative to keep the team focused on completing each sprint’s goal and not get bogged down in other tasks or any distractions that may appear along the way.
3. Everyone must understand that the team is self-managed
Everyone must understand that the team is self-managed. The SCRUM Master is a facilitator of the process and not the decision-maker. The SCRUM Master does not dictate what the team should accomplish, but rather helps them stay on task and reach their goal.
4. The product owner must do backlog grooming
The product owner must do backlog grooming. The product owner must groom the backlog to prioritize which features will be completed next for NetSuite implementation and manage feedback from stakeholders as well as update them on what has been done so far while creating customer proposals that outline how it can be implemented in NetSuite. This also means updating estimates and managing the tasks and subtasks for NetSuite implementation.
5. Estimate your work and run a burndown chart
Estimate your work and run a burndown chart. For the SCRUM role players, estimate your work and run a burndown chart. The team must learn to move more efficiently and produce a more accurate estimate of their tasks.
6. Always prepare progress reports/documentation
Prepare progress reports/documentation. ERP solutions are notoriously over documented and that documentation is never used again. Make progress and utilize whiteboards, stories, and other methods to capture what is being done.
7. Build a sprint schedule and release schedule
Build a sprint schedule and release schedule. It’s not just about 2-4 week iterations. You must still map out a release and sprint schedule. What modules do you want to finish and by when? How long will it take? Be sure to include holidays and other planned downtimes.
8. Everyone must understand and know how to resolve change
It will happen and the team must be prepared to handle it. How will changes impact your current sprints? How are you going to update and release with these edits in mind? Set up a stable infrastructure for NetSuite implementation. Make sure that there is enough time before doing so to make all necessary updates on databases or other infrastructure changes.
9. The demo and sprint retrospective are crucial steps
The demo and sprint retrospective are crucial steps. Don’t skip them. It’s how the team self improves and processes what went well and also recognizes what mistakes were made.
10. Cloud ERP implementations do not need to be a top-down command and control structure
The main takeaway is to understand that Cloud ERP implementations do not need to be a top-down command and control structure. They do not need to be long-drawn-out costly waterfall projects. You can build self-reliant teams that own the work and adhere to product/solution prioritization. At the end of the day, the ERP will more align with the business need, it will be more likely to be completed on time, and Agile will have engaged key stakeholders along the way.
Implementing NetSuite ERP is a challenging and complex process. It requires careful planning, strong communication skills, and leadership to get the project off on the right foot. If you’re considering implementing NetSuite for your company or want help in getting it started with us as an experienced partner, contact our team of experts at Excelym today! We can provide you everything from consulting & advisory, implementation, customization & integration, to administration and support, and other NetSuite business process outsourcing services.
Contact us now and get a free-no obligation initial consultation to kickstart your NetSuite license and adoption!
