NetSuite Consulting Firms: What They Do, When You Need One, and How to Choose

Technology Jul 23, 2025 7 Add to Reading List

If you’re using or planning to use NetSuite, a consulting firm can help set it up correctly. These firms configure the system, streamline workflows, and ensure it aligns with your business needs. Without one, it’s easy to waste time and money trying to make NetSuite work on your own.

Here’s what you should know before hiring one.

What Is a NetSuite Consulting Firm?

A NetSuite consulting firm helps companies install, customize, and maintain NetSuite. They handle technical tasks like system configuration, data migration, integration, and automation. They also train your team to use the system efficiently.

Most firms employ certified NetSuite consultants. Some also include developers, analysts, and project managers.

What Services Do They Offer?

Not all firms offer the same services. Some do full implementations, others focus on support or optimization. Here are the core services:

1. Implementation

Consultants set up your NetSuite account based on how your business operates. This includes:

Setting up modules (ERP, CRM, inventory, etc.)
Creating roles and permissions
Moving data from old systems
Preparing for go-live

The goal is to launch NetSuite without disrupting your day-to-day work.

2. Customization

Every business has its process. Consultants can:

Add custom fields and forms
Build workflows and approvals
Write scripts to automate tasks
Set up dashboards and KPIs

These changes help make NetSuite match how your team works.

3. Integration

If you use other tools—like Shopify, Salesforce, or payroll software—you’ll need them to sync with NetSuite. A good firm can integrate third-party apps or build custom connectors using SuiteTalk, RESTlets, or middleware.

4. Optimization

If your NetSuite account feels slow, clunky, or underused, consultants can:

Review system setup
Clean up unused scripts and fields
Improve reporting
Fix recurring errors

They help you get more from what you already pay for.

5. Support

After launch, you’ll still have questions. Many firms offer:

Help desk support
System updates
Minor fixes
Release management

Some charge hourly. Others offer monthly support plans.

When Should You Hire a NetSuite Consultant?

Most companies bring in a consulting firm during one of these stages:

Before implementation: To plan and set up NetSuite from scratch.
During re-implementation: If the first setup didn’t meet your needs.
For integration: When you want NetSuite to connect to other systems.
For process improvement: If reports are hard to read, users are frustrated, or data is unreliable.
For industry expertise: If you need best practices specific to your sector (like manufacturing or eCommerce).

What Makes a Good NetSuite Consulting Firm?

Not all consultants are equal. Here’s what to look for:

1. NetSuite Certifications

Firms should have consultants certified in relevant NetSuite areas: ERP, SuiteFoundation, SuiteAnalytics, or Developer certifications.

2. Industry Experience

If the firm has worked with businesses like yours, they’ll understand your operations better and suggest the right solutions.

3. Clear Process

They should explain how they’ll complete your project—what they’ll do, how long it’ll take, and what you’ll need to provide.

4. References

Ask for examples. Look for clients with similar size, industry, or challenges.

5. Support After Go-Live

Once you launch, issues will come up. A reliable firm will offer structured support—not just leave after the project ends.

6. Responsive Communication

If a firm takes too long to respond during the sales process, expect delays during the project. Choose one that communicates clearly and regularly.

Are All NetSuite Consulting Firms Official Partners?

No. Some are certified NetSuite Partners, which means they work directly with Oracle NetSuite. These partners often get training and tools earlier than others.

That said, smaller firms can also be good choices. Some operate independently but have deep NetSuite knowledge, strong client reviews, and affordable pricing.

Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Ask these questions to see if a firm is the right fit:

How many NetSuite projects have you completed?
Have you worked with companies in my industry?
What’s your project timeline?
Who will be on the team?
What happens after go-live?
How do you price your services?

Don’t settle for vague answers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Hiring based only on price: Cheap setups often lead to rework later.
No discovery phase: The firm should take time to learn how your business runs before setting up anything.
Skipping training: Even a perfect setup is useless if no one knows how to use it.
Ignoring change management: A new ERP can disrupt routines. A good firm helps guide your team through the transition.

Costs: What to Expect

NetSuite consulting rates vary depending on region, project scope, and firm size.

Small projects (setup + basic customization): $10,000–$25,000
Mid-sized implementations with integrations: $30,000–$75,000
Enterprise-level, multi-location rollouts: $100,000+

Hourly rates usually range from $125 to $225. Offshore firms may charge less, but check for time zone support and communication skills.

Who Uses NetSuite Consulting Firms?

The types of companies that benefit most include:

Manufacturers needing help with BOMs, work orders, or inventory
Retailers integrating NetSuite with POS or online stores
Wholesalers managing orders, inventory, and shipping
Software companies setting up recurring billing or revenue recognition
Professional services looking to manage projects and billing in one place

If your processes are complex or regulated, a consulting firm can help set things up correctly from day one.

Final Thoughts

NetSuite is a powerful ERP, but it doesn’t run itself. A consulting firm can help you set it up, fix what’s broken, and make sure it works for your business—not against it.

Choose a firm with the right skills, a structured approach, and a solid support plan. Avoid vague promises or lowest-cost options that cut corners.

A well-run NetSuite project should simplify your operations, reduce manual work, and give you better visibility into what’s happening across your business.