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From Guesswork to Control: Addressing Project Inefficiency through NetSuite ERP Implementation

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  • NetSuite ERP

Scaling a business is never simple, especially when projects are at the heart of your operations. During our recent live demos at the Lumenia ERP HEADtoHEAD™ event, one thing stood out to our team: many businesses are still fighting an uphill battle against everyday project inefficiencies. Despite impressive ambitions and talented teams, too many organisations are reliant on guesswork to manage their projects, resulting in costly overruns, missed deadlines, and frustrated staff, rather than continued growth.  

Fortunately, with the right software, project-centric businesses can replace guesswork with control. Implementing NetSuite solutions can transform the way your business operates, helping you move from ‘just managing’ to genuinely driving business growth. 

Live insights from ERP HEADtoHEAD™ 

While our team were doing live demonstrations on NetSuite modules, they noticed just how many businesses are still tackling real challenges to scale with their projects. What we saw confirmed a widespread need for change: 

• Many project-based organisations still depend on legacy systems or manual methods for scheduling and tracking, as well as performance analysis 

• Decision-makers expressed that as projects scale, so do the risks of missed billing events, resource conflicts, or scope creep, which they can’t handle  

• There was a tangible need for actionable insights – business leaders want dashboards that display financial, operational, and client data all in one place 

NetSuite provides an end-to-end solution that offers the control and visibility these businesses are looking for. It’s built for clarity, collaboration, and control: exactly what’s needed to transform project inefficiency into success.​  

How project inefficiency impacts scaling businesses 

Inefficiency in project management can have a direct impact on growth. For established organisations and ambitious scale-ups alike, mistakes can happen anywhere – project overruns and hidden costs decrease profitability.  

Teams lack real-time visibility, forcing managers to chase updates by phone or spreadsheets. Poor integration between finance, resource allocation, and production scheduling causes gaps and bottlenecks. Accurate forecasting is a challenge, making it hard to plan ahead with confidence.  

These pain points were all highlighted repeatedly at this year’s ERP HEADtoHEAD™ event. When businesses attempt to scale, unsuitable tools and outdated processes quickly become roadblocks rather than reliable support.​ 

Common causes of project inefficiency 

Before exploring solutions, it’s beneficial to recognise the typical factors: 

• Fragmented Data – When project-related data is spread across multiple systems, tracking progress is difficult, slow and unreliable. 

• Reactive Management – Teams only spot issues when it’s too late, leading to ‘firefighting’ and missed opportunities. 

• Manual Processes – Approvals, billing, and updates handled by email or spreadsheet increase the risk for errors and wasted effort. 

• Lack of Integration – When different systems are used for financial management, CRM, and inventory management, optimal planning feels impossible.  

• Limited Forecasting – Without the right tools, managers rely more on instinct rather than accurate predictions for profitability. 

How to tell if project management needs fixing 

There are a few questions to ask yourself which can identify inefficiencies and the need for more suitable project software.  

1. Are projects regularly exceeding budgets? 

2. Does project reporting require you to combine data from multiple systems? 

3. Are key performance metrics visible to all relevant stakeholders throughout projects? 

4. Is resource scheduling handled manually or prone to overlap? 

5. Are billing events or project milestones ever missed or delayed? 

6. Can management forecast workload, cash flow, and profitability for all active projects? 

7. Are your finance and operational teams aligned, or working from separate systems?  

8. Have you considered how a modern ERP solution could improve your project outcomes? 

If you answered ‘no’ to several of these questions, it’s undeniably worthwhile looking into NetSuite ERP implementation. 

How implementing NetSuite solves project inefficiency  

Moving from guesswork to control starts with real-time project management. A NetSuite ERP implementation can help businesses improve visibility, collaboration, and workflow efficiency across their projects. Key benefits include: 

Unified Visibility and Reporting

NetSuite provides a centralised dashboard where project data is accessible in real time. Teams and stakeholders can track progress, milestones, and financials without relying on spreadsheets or delayed reports, enabling more informed, timely decisions. 

Proactive Problem-Solving

Integrated data allows teams to spot potential issues early, respond proactively, and reduce risks such as missed deadlines or overspending. Predictive insights support better resource allocation and more accurate forecasting. 

Seamless Collaboration

NetSuite connects departments on a single platform, ensuring finance, operations, and service teams work together effectively. Mobile access enables visibility anywhere, supporting accountability and transparency across all project stages. 

Automated Workflows

Manual, time-consuming tasks can be automated, reducing errors and freeing teams to focus on critical activities. Projects can be managed efficiently, with staff assigned based on skills, workload, and availability. 

Scalable, Industry-Specific Solutions

NetSuite adapts to business growth, supporting multi-entity operations and tailored workflows. This ensures your ERP system evolves with your business, providing flexibility and control as projects expand. 

Moving forward with more control 

All in all, project-centric businesses face similar hurdles on their journey to scalable growth. By choosing NetSuite, you can gain the visibility, control, and automation needed to move from guesswork to complete control. As an experienced NetSuite partner in the UK, OSSM can guide you through the implementation process and support your next phase of growth. 

Partnering with OSSM brings the power of the world’s #1 cloud ERP to your business. We pride ourselves in guiding customers from initial needs analysis right through tailored NetSuite development, ensuring each ERP implementation delivers measurable improvements. With a passion for solving complex challenges, you will be in good hands with our team. Get in touch today.  

About the Author

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Brian Doherty

Brian is an accomplished Project Manager with a background in the ERP software industry. He possesses expertise in Business Process, Sage Products, NetSuite, Requirements Analysis, and Technical Support. As the Operations Director of OSSM, a member of the Noledge Group, Brian has directly implemented or been involved in the implementation of NetSuite ERP cloud-based software in various businesses across multiple sectors.

Modern UK office filled with natural light symbolising efficiency, transparency, and innovation from NetSuite ERP benefits.

How NetSuite Overcomes ERP Limitations That Cost CEOs Time, Profit and Peace of Mind

Modern UK office filled with natural light symbolising efficiency, transparency, and innovation from NetSuite ERP benefits.
  • NetSuite ERP, NetSuite Financial Management

For CEOs focused on driving business growth, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software can be transformative. A unified system simplifies operations, consolidates data, and supports smarter, faster decision-making. ERP gives leaders the real-time visibility they need to make informed choices, keep teams aligned, and stay ahead in competitive markets.

Yet, not every ERP system delivers on its promise. When software fails to integrate with essential tools, adapt to evolving needs, or provide a clear business overview, performance stalls. Many organisations view ERP as a “set and forget” solution, assuming it will scale naturally over time. In truth, even the strongest ERP systems need ongoing review and optimisation as companies grow and their operations become more complex. Ignoring this can cost CEOs valuable time, profits, and peace of mind.

The hidden costs of ERP limitations

ERP systems are meant to offer clarity and control – but when they fall short, they often drain resources and slow progress. Common pain points include:

Fragmented Data – When information is scattered across finance, CRM, projects, and other systems, CEOs are left piecing together reports manually.

Rigid Workflows – Inflexible systems force teams to adapt to the software, instead of the software supporting the way the business works.

Delayed Visibility – Without real-time dashboards, leaders rely on outdated data, making decisions based on yesterday’s performance.

Poor Integration – Disconnected systems cause duplication, bottlenecks, and costly errors.

Complex Upgrades – Legacy platforms often require expensive, time-consuming upgrades just to keep up with modern operations.

The outcome? Lost hours, missed opportunities, and sleepless nights wondering whether the business is truly on track.

A common CEO dilemma

Ray Ryan, CEO of OSSM, describes an experience that many leaders will recognise:

“Before NetSuite, our data was scattered across finance, CRM, and project management tools. Now, everything sits in one database. From project profitability to cash flow forecasts and sales pipelines, I can get a complete view of our performance in seconds. That visibility has been critical to running the business effectively.”

Ray’s story mirrors what many CEOs encounter. When outdated systems aren’t reassessed or reconfigured for evolving challenges, efficiency suffers. NetSuite ERP removes those barriers – delivering flexibility, visibility, and value without compromise. In a fast-moving market, having an integrated, all-in-one solution helps leaders stay agile and competitive.

Common ERP limitations CEOs must address

Recognising and resolving common ERP limitations enables CEOs to decide when it’s time to upgrade their software. Key challenges include:

Isolated Data & Blind Spots – Disconnected systems hide valuable insights and increase business risk.

Manual Workarounds – Reliance on spreadsheets and offline tools slows productivity and introduces errors.

Slow Decision-Making – When reports take too long to compile, opportunities slip by.

Integration Headaches – Systems that don’t connect easily to new apps or technologies limit innovation and agility.

These issues often surface during growth, transformation, or compliance change. CEOs who identify and address them early can prevent disruptions to performance and profitability.

Why ERP needs continuous re-evaluation

ERP software isn’t a one-time investment – it’s a strategic asset that must evolve with your organisation. As your business expands, diversifies, or adopts new technology, regular ERP assessments ensure the system remains aligned with your goals.

Key reasons to review your ERP include:

Growth & Expansion – Multi-entity operations, global compliance, and new products require adaptable systems.

Process Change – New business models or regulations call for refreshed workflows and configurations.

Tech Innovation – Advances in cloud, integration, and AI offer capabilities that should be leveraged.

Security & Compliance – Ongoing regulatory change demands strong controls and reliable audit trails.

Team Needs – Modern teams expect accessible, user-friendly, and collaborative digital tools.

Consistent ERP evaluation keeps your technology aligned with your strategy – preventing stagnation and maximising return on investment.

What makes NetSuite different for CEOs

NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP designed to grow with your business, giving CEOs greater visibility and control. Its flexibility and automation simplify complexity and improve decision-making.

Personalised Dashboards – Get instant access to key metrics like cash flow, sales, and project performance from a single view.

Real-Time Data – Make informed decisions using accurate, up-to-the-minute information.

Scalability – Expand seamlessly with support for multiple entities, acquisitions, and new product lines.

Automated Workflows – Eliminate repetitive manual tasks, reducing errors and saving time.

Seamless Integration – Connect effortlessly with other business systems to ensure smooth data flow and consistent insights.

From daily operations to strategic oversight, NetSuite empowers CEOs with clarity, efficiency, and confidence.

Choose OSSM to upgrade your ERP

If your existing ERP leaves you uncertain, limits visibility, or slows your decision-making, it’s time to rethink your approach. NetSuite ERP brings together integration, automation, and real-time insight – the foundation for confident, data-driven leadership.

As experienced NetSuite consulting partners, OSSM helps UK businesses get the most from their ERP investment. From strategy and implementation to continuous improvement, our team ensures your system delivers measurable results.

Arrange a free ERP review with us and see how NetSuite can transform your operations and restore CEO peace of mind.

About the Author

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Sinéad Galligani

Sinéad has been involved in the software industry, particularly in ERP, for over 25 years. Her career has spanned various roles, including Account Management, Key Account Management, and Business Development. In 2013, she became the Marketing Manager for The Noledge Group and now serves as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).