The Top 10 Mistakes During a NetSuite Implementation (and How to Avoid Them)
- William Piette
- Jun 2
- 4 min read
Implementing an ERP system like NetSuite is a major step forward for growing businesses - but it’s not without its challenges. While NetSuite is powerful, flexible, and scalable, the journey to a successful implementation can be full of hidden pitfalls.
At Sky High ERP, we've helped businesses across industries get the most out of their NetSuite investment. In this post, we’ll walk you through the top 10 mistakes we see during implementations - and more importantly, how you can avoid them.
1. Lack of Clear Objectives and Scope
Why It’s Important
Without a clearly defined vision, businesses can lose focus during the implementation process. This often results in an incomplete system that doesn’t fully support business needs.
How to Avoid It
Define specific goals and KPIs (e.g., reducing manual processes, improving financial visibility)
Align your objectives with NetSuite’s capabilities
Make sure the scope is well-defined and agreed upon by all stakeholders
The Payoff
This helps recenter the project to not go over time and over budget and determine what is crucial for a first phase while we build a plan for optimizing processes for once everyone is more accustomed with NetSuite.
2. Inadequate Planning and Preparation
Why It’s Important
A rushed or poorly planned implementation can derail your project, leading to delays, rework, and unnecessary costs.
How to Avoid It
Conduct a thorough review of your existing processes and pain points
Build a realistic timeline with clear milestones
Involve all key stakeholders early to ensure alignment and buy-in
The Payoff
A well-structured plan keeps your implementation on track and minimizes disruptions.
3. Poor Data Migration Strategy
Why It’s Important
Your ERP system is only as good as the data it holds. Migrating messy or incorrect data can cause errors and frustration across teams.
How to Avoid It
Clean and validate your data before migration
Run test migrations to catch issues early
Ensure accurate data mapping from legacy systems to NetSuite
The Payoff
Clean, reliable data enables a smooth transition and more confident decision-making from day one.
4. Lack of Change Management and Employee Buy-In
Why It’s Important
ERP systems often require changes to daily workflows. Without proper change management, employees may resist adoption.
How to Avoid It
Communicate early and often about the benefits of the new system
Offer thorough training tailored to each user group
Identify internal champions to advocate for the system across departments - champions will drive the adoption of NetSuite throughout the company
The Payoff
When employees feel informed and supported, adoption is faster - and ROI is higher.
5. Inexperienced Implementation Partners
Why It’s Important
Choosing the wrong partner can lead to costly missteps, misaligned configurations, and delays. Experienced implementation partners have seen what works and what doesn't, and will challenge your requirements to ensure that you're aligning the implementation with the best long-term outcomes.
How to Avoid It
Select a partner with proven experience in your industry
Ensure they understand your unique business needs and long-term goals
Ask about their approach to training, support, and collaboration
The Payoff
A trusted implementation partner ensures NetSuite meets your needs and scales with your business.
6. Not Dedicating Enough Internal Resources
Why It’s Important
Going live is just the beginning. Without post-launch support, companies often struggle to optimize the system or address evolving needs.
How to Avoid It
Dedicate an internal resource to be a full-time lead on the implementation project
Coordinate with your implementation partner to clarify the expectations around internal resources
Align all stakeholders around the implementation timeline to ensure availability at key points throughout the process
The Payoff
Clear expectations and careful planning help ensure your team is fully aware of what's needed of them and the project is able to move forward without delays or miscommunications.
7. Ignoring Customization Needs
Why It’s Important
NetSuite is highly customizable - but failing to tailor it to your workflows can limit its effectiveness.
How to Avoid It
Identify areas where customization can create efficiencies (e.g., custom workflows, reporting dashboards)
Avoid over-customizing, which can complicate upgrades and support
Work with your partner to find the right balance
The Payoff
Targeted customizations enhance productivity without compromising system stability.
8. Inadequate Testing and Quality Assurance
Why It’s Important
Skipping or rushing through testing can result in system errors or user frustrations after go-live.
How to Avoid It
Conduct testing at every phase of the implementation
Include end-users in testing to ensure the system meets practical needs
Address all issues before launch
The Payoff
Thorough testing ensures a smoother go-live with fewer post-launch headaches.
9. Lack of Interdepartmental Collaboration
Why It’s Important
ERP systems touch nearly every area of your business. Siloed planning leads to disconnected workflows and unmet needs.
How to Avoid It
Involve representatives from all affected departments in the planning process
Encourage collaboration and open communication between teams
Align project goals across the organization
The Payoff
Cross-functional collaboration leads to a system that truly supports the whole business.
10. Underestimating the Scope of the Project
Why It’s Important
Many businesses underestimate the time, resources, and effort required to successfully implement NetSuite, which leads to misaligned expectations and ongoing friction throughout the project.
How to Avoid It
Account for additional costs like custom development, integrations, training, and post-launch support
Build a buffer for unexpected delays or scope changes
Work with your implementation partner to ensure adequate time and resources are devoted to each stage of the implementation process
The Payoff
Smart budgeting and realistic planning ensures you’re prepared for every stage of the implementation.
Related Resources
Final thoughts
NetSuite is a powerful platform—but success depends on more than just the software itself. Avoiding these common mistakes requires strategic planning, clear communication, and the right implementation partner.
At Sky High ERP, we specialize in helping businesses unlock the full potential of NetSuite through thoughtful implementation, tailored support, and real-world experience. Whether you’re planning your first ERP rollout or optimizing an existing system, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Let's talk about your implementation project.
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