For most D2C founders, the decision to move to an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system like NetSuite is both exciting and daunting. You’ve outgrown your patchwork of tools — QuickBooks, Shopify, Google Sheets — and you’re ready for more visibility, control, and scalability. But even the most powerful ERP system can’t deliver results without the right preparation.
That’s where your ERP roadmap comes in. A clear implementation roadmap ensures your business is ready for change — not just technically, but operationally and culturally. Whether you’re implementing NetSuite for the first time or optimizing an existing setup, the work you do before go-live determines how successful your rollout will be.
At Ekwani Consulting, we’ve guided D2C brands through every stage of NetSuite implementation, and one thing is always true: the smoother the preparation, the faster you see ROI.
Before you dive into configuration or integrations, define why you’re implementing NetSuite. What specific business problems are you solving?
Maybe you’re spending hours reconciling data between sales channels, or you’ve hit a wall with manual inventory management. Maybe your finance and operations teams are using separate systems that don’t talk to each other.
Your business case should outline:
Having this clarity helps your internal teams stay aligned — and it allows your NetSuite implementation partner to design a system that fits your business, not the other way around.
Successful ERP implementations are not IT projects — they’re business transformation projects.
Your team should include representatives from every key function that will touch the system:
Each department should have a clear role in defining requirements, testing workflows, and signing off on how processes will run in the new system. This cross-functional approach minimizes surprises later and ensures the ERP reflects how your business actually operates.
Data migration is one of the most underestimated steps in an ERP project — and one of the most critical.
Before you can move into NetSuite, your data needs to be accurate, consistent, and clean. That means:
If you’re currently managing data across multiple spreadsheets or disconnected tools, this is the time to consolidate. The cleaner your data is going in, the fewer issues you’ll face once NetSuite is live.
At Ekwani, we often guide clients through a data readiness audit, identifying what’s usable, what needs cleaning, and what can be left behind. It’s not glamorous work — but it’s what prevents expensive rework later.
Every ERP system mirrors the way your business runs. If your internal processes aren’t clear, the system won’t be either.
Take the time to map out your workflows before configuration begins.
Ask questions like:
Documenting these processes helps your implementation team configure NetSuite correctly and helps your employees understand what’s changing. It’s also a great opportunity to improve outdated or manual workflows before they become embedded in your new system.
ERP projects fail more often because of people than technology. Resistance to change, unclear communication, or lack of training can derail even the most well-planned implementation.
To mitigate this:
At Ekwani Consulting, we focus heavily on this human element. Because when your team understands how NetSuite makes their jobs easier — not harder — adoption skyrockets.
Not everything has to go live at once. In fact, trying to do too much too quickly is one of the most common mistakes we see.
A phased implementation allows you to stabilize critical functions first — usually financials, order management, and inventory — before adding more complex modules like CRM, warehouse management, or advanced analytics.
This approach helps your team build confidence and minimizes disruption to your day-to-day operations.
Your implementation partner can make or break your ERP journey. You need a team that not only understands NetSuite’s technical architecture, but also the realities of running a D2C business — from eCommerce integrations to customer experience to fulfillment.
At Ekwani Consulting, we bridge the gap between strategy and systems. We don’t just configure NetSuite — we help you build operational clarity, resilience, and scalability.
We’re not here to install software. We’re here to create systems that support growth.
Preparing for a NetSuite implementation isn’t just about technology — it’s about transformation.
When you invest time upfront to align your team, clean your data, and refine your processes, you set the stage for an ERP system that works seamlessly across your organization.
A clear roadmap is what turns an overwhelming transition into a smooth, scalable foundation for the next stage of growth.
If you’re preparing for a NetSuite implementation and want a partner who understands the full picture — from system configuration to operational strategy — let’s talk.
Book a consultation with Ekwani Consulting and discover how to turn your ERP project into your greatest growth asset.