NetSuite, the robust cloud-based business management software suite, is dedicated to continuous improvement, providing its users with enhanced features and improved functionalities through two major releases every year.
This proactive approach ensures that you have the latest and greatest tools needed to achieve unparalleled visibility, control, and agility in running your organisation.
NetSuite does two update releases a year, usually in Q1 and Q3. These releases bring new features and enhancements to NetSuite’s entire install base, which means all 36,000+ customers receive these updates.
The seamless transition from one release to another is facilitated by a meticulously designed phased-release process.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key steps you need to take to ensure a smooth and successful transition to the upcoming NetSuite release.
The Phased Release Process: Ensuring a Cohesive Upgrade Experience
NetSuite’s phased release process is designed to ensure a controlled and well-structured transition for all users.
Here’s how it works:
Phase 1 Customers (10%): In the initial phase, a portion of customers (10%) are upgraded to the new release. This controlled approach allows NetSuite to monitor the impact of the release on a smaller scale.
Phase 2 Customers (30%): In the second phase, an additional 30% of customers are upgraded. This step allows for further validation of the release’s compatibility and performance.
Phase 3 Customers (60%): The final phase involves upgrading the remaining 60% of customers. By this point, NetSuite has gathered valuable insights from the earlier phases, ensuring a more seamless experience for the majority of users.
With this structured approach, NetSuite ensures that the transition is well-managed, minimising disruptions and surprises for users.
Steps to Ensure a Smooth Transition to the Next NetSuite Release
To ensure a seamless transition to the upcoming NetSuite release, it’s essential to follow these three critical steps:
1. Learn: Gather Insights and Information
Early preparation is key to a successful upgrade. Stay informed about the new features and improvements by exploring Sneak Peek blogs (we often publish this type of content here on FinanSys around the time of the release), podcasts, and in-depth Release Notes.
These resources provide you with a comprehensive overview of what to expect in the upcoming release. Moreover, keep an eye on the New Release Portlet on your NetSuite homepage, which displays the date of your scheduled upgrade.
Being well-informed will help you anticipate changes and understand the potential impact on your business processes.
2. Plan: Tailor Your Testing Strategy
Every business is unique, and your NetSuite configuration reflects that. Your combination of features, company settings, bundles, customisations, and data require careful consideration when transitioning to a new release. Develop a comprehensive testing plan that encompasses your existing business-critical processes.
By planning your testing strategy meticulously, you’ll be better equipped to identify any potential issues and ensure a smooth transition.
3. Test: Validate and Verify with Release Preview
NetSuite provides a valuable tool to help you become familiar with the new release and verify that your existing workflows function seamlessly.
The Release Preview is a temporary and isolated test account that mimics your production account running the latest NetSuite release. Administrators can request a Release Preview account via the New Release Portlet.
This account allows you to explore new features, validate your processes, and identify any discrepancies before your official upgrade.
Should you encounter any challenges, don’t hesitate to log a support case with our team, ensuring that any issues are resolved before the upgrade takes place.
Unlock the Full Potential with Reliable NetSuite Consultancy and Support Services
Navigating the intricate world of NetSuite releases requires expertise and guidance. Our team of experienced NetSuite consultants is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and successful transition for your business.
Whether it is basic technical support, answers to your “how-to” questions or high-level consulting on NetSuite best practices and product usage, our support team will help you get the best return on your ERP investment with valuable NetSuite consultancy/support services as well as best-in-class NetSuite professional services.
Don’t leave your upgrade to chance—partner with us and unlock the full potential of NetSuite’s capabilities for your business.
