Here is a complaint we sometimes get from NetSuite users or see in online forums:
“We’ve been with NetSuite since the early days, and every change they make seems to cost us more—often with no real benefit. Every update brings technical issues, and NetSuite’s answer is always more paid services. It’s like death by a thousand cuts.”
If you’ve felt the same way, you’re not alone.
While NetSuite is a powerful ERP system, it’s no secret that licensing fees, service upsells, and recurring costs can quickly add up—especially for businesses that don’t actively manage their NetSuite environment. But the good news is: it doesn’t have to be this way.
At Foretopia, we specialize in helping businesses get more from NetSuite—without overspending. Below are six strategies to help you reduce NetSuite costs without diminishing its effectiveness.
1. Audit Your Licenses and Modules
It’s common for businesses to pay for:
- Modules they no longer use
- Full user licenses when limited or employee roles would suffice
- Extra environments like sandboxes that sit idle
Do a regular license audit. Trim what’s not being used, and align user roles with actual job functions. You might be surprised at how much you can save just by rightsizing your access.
2. Negotiate at Renewal Time
NetSuite contracts typically include annual price escalators and auto-renew clauses. Before your renewal date:
- Ask for a detailed quote
- Review which modules and users are driving cost
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate—especially if you’re willing to commit to a longer term
Long-time customers often have more leverage than they think.
3. Work With a Managed Services Partner
Rather than relying on NetSuite’s high-cost support or ad hoc consulting hours, many businesses turn to a NetSuite managed services partner like Foretopia.
What you gain:
- Predictable monthly costs
- Proactive monitoring and support
- Faster, more affordable customizations
Whether it’s fixing script errors, improving reporting, or streamlining workflows, an experienced partner can reduce the technical friction that leads to those dreaded NetSuite upsells.
4. Streamline Your Customizations
Every customization adds complexity. Over time, legacy scripts and automations can:
- Break during upgrades
- Create dependencies on expensive consultants
- Slow down your system
Simplify where possible. Use native NetSuite features before building something custom. Clean up unused fields, workflows, and saved searches. A leaner system is easier to maintain—and cheaper in the long run.
5. Cancel the Paid Sandbox (If You Don’t Need It)
NetSuite sandboxes are valuable for companies with complex development or integrations—but many businesses don’t use them enough to justify the cost.
If you rarely test major changes, consider:
- Downgrading to a free trial environment for minor testing
- Consolidating updates into fewer development cycles
You might save thousands a year with no impact on day-to-day operations.
6. Explore Features You Already Have
Many companies pay extra for tools they already own. For example:
- Project management is included in many editions
- Basic HR functions (SuitePeople Core) might already be licensed
- Saved Searches and Dashboards can often replace paid reports
Before buying something new, check what’s already in your system. Sometimes, a small training session or config change unlocks a lot of value.
So…
NetSuite is a transformational tool for business—but it takes some proactive effort to keep it lean, well-structured, and tailored to your business needs. Costs creep in when systems go unmanaged and customizations pile up.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by rising NetSuite costs or just want to make sure you’re getting the most for your money, Foretopia can help. We offer NetSuite audits, optimization plans, and fully managed support services—all designed to give you clarity, control, and peace of mind.
Get in touch today for a no-pressure conversation about reducing your NetSuite costs while improving your system’s performance.
