For many, the Go-Live date is a mix of excitement and anxiety. It’s the moment of truth, in which your business officially transitions from the old way of doing things to a new, more efficient one. No matter how well you prepare for this transition, the reality is that you may face post-Go-Live challenges in NetSuite.
Below, we’ll discuss some of the common accounting issues you may face, as well as some proactive tips to avoid these pitfalls.
Common Post ‘Go-Live’ Accounting Issues in NetSuite
Data discrepancies or missing data
One of the most significant Go-Live challenges in NetSuite is maintaining data integrity during migration. Your data might be spread across multiple programs or systems, including accounting software, department-specific databases, or even spreadsheets.
Migration of data from multiple sources could lead to poor data quality, inconsistent formats, duplicate records, or even obsolete information. This is particularly problematic if you have large data pools, or multiple departments consulting the same data.
Workflow and process errors
Going live with NetSuite is a process that involves multiple steps. The system’s comprehensive nature means that one of the Go-Live challenges in NetSuite that many businesses fail to consider is its impact on business processes.
In fact, after implementation, you’ll likely need to overhaul business processes and employee workflows for efficiency and productivity improvements. However, this requires a mindset shift for a number of workers.
Integration issues with other systems
After your Go-Live date, you may experience challenges integrating NetSuite with third-party apps or existing software systems. This can be frustrating, and may result in overly complex maintenance requirements.
If you need your NetSuite software to be customized for your business’s unique needs, it can present additional issues. After all, the more tweaks made to your system, the more potential problems you could face.
User errors due to unfamiliarity with the platform
Ensuring that your staff can effectively use a new platform or program is always challenging. Yet the comprehensive nature of the software means that one of the most significant Go-Live challenges in NetSuite is change management.
If your staff are unfamiliar with or intimidated by the intricacies of NetSuite, the chances of user errors are extremely high.
Diving Deep into Specific Challenges
Data issues
Data migration can be challenging and time-consuming. To minimize the risk of costly setbacks or loss of vital data, you’ll need a data migration strategy. This includes:
- Data analysis: Identify and resolve inconsistencies, duplicates, and errors.
- Regular backups: This will minimize the risk of data loss.
- Considering pros: By using data migration experts or tools, you can ensure a smooth and accurate transfer.
By compiling and cleaning your data, you can eliminate redundancies and fix inconsistencies.
Workflow errors
As mentioned above, the Go-Live phase can significantly impact business processes and workflows. To prevent this, ensure that you have buy-in from all stakeholders and users before, during and after implementation.
Avoiding workflow errors also requires effective resource allocation or reconfiguration, in terms of staffing, time, and budgets. This is particularly true for complex workflows; the larger the workflow, the more difficult it is to maintain and troubleshoot issues.
Integration troubles
While NetSuite offers extensive integration with a range of third-party apps, as well as automated updates to iron out common bugs, you may still experience issues.
Regular systems tests will ensure any applications and other software that were integrated are running as they should.
However, as with any software program, the best way to ensure you don’t have problems is through extensive knowledge of the NetSuite system.
By knowing the ins and outs of the software, you can navigate and troubleshoot integration issues with ease. This is where industry experts come in. Often, it is easier to outsource to experienced integration specialists, or make use of integration platforms.
Training gaps
Regular training keeps your team updated on the latest features, functionalities, and best practices of NetSuite software. This means improved user confidence and ensuring that your business avoids costly errors, while maximizing operational efficiency.
Before your Go-Live date, conduct a skills assessment. Once you know where your employees’ difficulties lie, you can schedule targeted training to help everyone understand the new system and benefit from it.
NetSuite also provides training for its systems, and gives users access to tutorials and videos.
Immediate Steps to Take When Facing Issues
As the old adage goes, prevention is better than cure. By being proactive, and addressing Go-Live challenges in NetSuite as soon as they arise, you can avoid costly bottlenecks or errors.
For example, when a problem arises, clearly record it. An easy way to ensure you have all the relevant information is to take a screenshot of problems or error messages.
Another aspect that should not be overlooked is effective communication. Clearly explain the objectives and goals of your Go-Live implementation to anyone who will be involved – directly or indirectly – and set expectations.
By explaining what the system will do, as well as its benefits and challenges, your team will be able to work towards a common goal.
Proactive Measures to Minimize Post ‘Go-Live’ Issues
Regular system checks and audits can help you avoid Go-Live challenges in NetSuite by ensuring that all tools and applications function properly.
For example, UAT (User Acceptance Testing) should be applied at every stage of implementation, to ensure that the tools and applications you’ve implemented work. Through continuous testing, you can strategically correct any problems as they arise.
Setting up a dedicated internal support team is also crucial. Moreover, by offering refresher courses to all your NetSuite users, you can make sure they’re always up to date with current processes, eliminating user errors.
Also, remember that you can reach out for help. In addition to twice-annual updates to iron out common issues, technical support is readily available for NetSuite customers. This includes a help desk, forums with extensive resources and guides, as well as online support.
Leveraging External Expertise
With the array of potential Go-Live challenges in NetSuite, it can be incredibly beneficial to bring in a NetSuite consultant or expert.
A NetSuite expert can help you with the following:
- Addressing any problems that arise, while providing ongoing maintenance and support.
- Ensuring that your system is always running smoothly.
- Training users and making sure everyone is comfortable with the system.
- Continuously improving your accounting for business continuity.
But how do you know when to consider bringing in an expert? That depends on your current skills and familiarity. If you’re completely new to NetSuite, hiring a consultant from the start is highly recommended.
On the other hand, if you’re somewhat familiar with the software but need assistance with the challenges mentioned above, using third-party support during the initial post-Go-Live phase can be very helpful. This way, you can avoid the risks of having to make snap decisions, additional costs, or misuse of internal resources. With external expertise, your team can focus on the core business.
For NetSuite assistance or help with any of the above challenges, schedule a Discovery Call with one of our CPAs.
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