NetSuite delivers scheduled releases that keep your ERP evolving and your business processes running smoothly. Each NetSuite release incorporates enhancements, new features, and refined workflows to help organizations use NetSuite more effectively. The NetSuite Release Preview account—often called the isolated test account—plays a pivotal role by letting teams explore changes in a safe environment prior to the new release going live. Whether you need to examine updated supply chain tools, test SuiteBilling functionalities, or verify bank and credit card integrations, accessing the Release Preview ensures any customization remains intact and any issues are resolved before the production account is upgraded.
NetSuite releases arrive twice a year, bringing the latest ERP optimizations and expansions to your NetSuite account. When the release date approaches, it is crucial to map out a systematic approach that prevents confusion in your workflows. The upcoming release, 2025.1, for instance, includes enhancements such as improvements to revenue arrangements, new AI-based automation features, and critical authentication changes. If you are not prepared, these changes could create unintended disruptions.
Key updates include the end of support for Outbound Single Sign-On (SuiteSignOn) and the RSA PKCSv1.5 scheme for OAuth 2.0, requiring businesses to transition to NetSuite's OIDC Provider for improved security. Additionally, enhancements to warehouse management processes, SuiteScript updates, and SuiteAnalytics improvements, such as transitioning from NetSuite.com to Netsuite2.com data sources, should be thoroughly tested.
NetSuite updates are rolled out over a 3-month period, with each customer assigned a specific date and time for their production account update. Sandbox accounts, if available, are typically updated 7 days after the production update. The update period is scheduled for 4 hours, usually outside of business hours, though most updates are completed within 60 minutes, even for accounts with complex customizations.
The New Release Portlet, located on your NetSuite dashboard, provides essential information such as the exact date and time of your update. NetSuite also sends email notifications to administrators with the same details. If the assigned update time conflicts with critical operations, businesses can reschedule via the Customer Scheduled Maintenance page up to 72 hours before the scheduled update.
Log into the Release Preview account: Navigate to Lists > Employees > Employees (Administrator) and click Edit next to the employee's name.
Modify Employee Access: Go to the Access subtab of the employee record, uncheck the Give Access box. Note: Keep track of the user's assigned roles for re-assignment later. Click Save.
Reassign Access: Edit the same employee record again, check the Give Access box, fill in any required details, and assign the appropriate roles. Click Save.
Inform the User: Instruct the user to log out and log back in. The Release Preview account will be labeled under the Account Type column on the My Roles page and indicated with an RP symbol.
Create an Employee Search: From the Release Preview account, create an employee search displaying the following fields:
Internal ID (of the Employee)
Give Access
Export and Update: Export the search results to a CSV file. Use the CSV Import Assistant to update employee records in Release Preview.
Import CSV Records: Navigate to Setup > Import/Export > Import CSV Records.
Select Employees in the Import Type field.
Choose Employees in the Record Type field.
Upload your CSV file and click Next.
Data Handling and Mapping: Choose Update in the Data Handling field and proceed by clicking Next. Ensure the following fields are mapped correctly:
Internal ID
Give Access Click Save & Run to complete the import.
Failing to allocate sufficient time for testing scripts and integrations before going live is a common oversight that can lead to significant disruptions. Organizations must also ensure that custom workflows are thoroughly validated to prevent unexpected issues caused by changes in the new release. Another critical challenge is inadequate user training, which can result in confusion and decreased productivity if end-users are not familiar with interface updates and new functionalities.
To ensure a seamless transition, organizations should start by developing a structured test plan that covers core processes, integrations, and user roles. It is essential to prioritize critical functions, focusing first on financial, operational, and compliance-related workflows to prevent disruptions to essential business processes. Engaging key stakeholders, such as department leads, throughout the testing phase is crucial for ensuring business continuity and obtaining valuable feedback on potential impacts.
How long is the Release Preview available? Typically, it’s available for several weeks before the production update.
Can I revert back after upgrading? No, once the upgrade is applied to your production environment, it cannot be undone.
What happens to custom scripts during the upgrade? Custom scripts should be tested thoroughly to ensure compatibility with the new release.
Navigating a NetSuite update can be challenging, but working with experts like Kimberlite Partners can simplify the process. Our team specializes in ensuring businesses are well-prepared by offering customized workflow assessments, in-depth analytics testing, and user role optimization.
With Kimberlite Partners by your side, you can confidently approach your next NetSuite update, knowing that all aspects of your NetSuite system are fine-tuned for success. Our expertise includes preparing for significant changes like migrating to new authentication protocols, updating custom scripts, and ensuring full compliance with localization enhancements.
Take full advantage today. Request your NetSuite Release Preview and discover how the upcoming NetSuite update can improve your operations. For personalized assistance, reach out to Kimberlite Partners to ensure a smooth go-live experience.