Why Hiring a Jack-of-All-Trades NetSuite Developer Is a Risk You Shouldn’t Take

January 2, 2025
A focused man seated at a desk with two monitors, weighing the dangers of hiring a jack-of-all-trades NetSuite developer.

On paper, hiring a NetSuite developer who “does it all” seems like the perfect solution. They promise versatility, efficiency, and cost savings by tackling every aspect of your NetSuite system.

But here’s the reality: NetSuite isn’t your average software. It’s a powerful, multifaceted tool that thrives on expertise. Relying on a NetSuite generalist often leads to missed opportunities, costly mistakes, and frustrations that could’ve been avoided.

If your goal is to maximize your NetSuite investment, it’s time to rethink the jack-of-all-trades approach.

Why NetSuite Demands Specialized Expertise

NetSuite is more than a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a robust platform encompassing ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), automation, integrations, and beyond.

 A man and woman collaborate on a computer, showcasing teamwork in navigating NetSuite's specialized expertise.

A NetSuite generalist might get the basics running, but they’re often out of their depth when it comes to:

  • Building complex custom workflows.
  • Managing data migration without losing valuable information.
  • Seamlessly integrating third-party software.

NetSuite specialists, on the other hand, bring precision and creativity to your system. They know the ins and outs of SuiteScript, SuiteFlow, and other advanced tools, ensuring your system works smarter, not harder.

The Hidden Costs of Generalist Developers

A NetSuite developer who dabbles in everything might seem like a cost-effective option upfront, but the long-term impact of their work can add up. When your system isn’t running as efficiently as it could, or worse, is filled with errors, the cost to fix it far outweighs the initial savings. 

These hidden costs can often be avoided by choosing a NetSuite developer with specialized expertise who’s able to get it right from the start.

Missed Opportunities for Optimization

Imagine this: Your team spends hours every week manually entering data that could’ve been automated. Why? Because your NetSuite developer wasn’t skilled enough to set up the right workflows.

NetSuite generalists often overlook these optimizations, leaving your system underutilized and your team stuck with inefficiencies.

Increased Error Rates

Inexperience has a way of snowballing. A single misconfigured workflow might seem minor, but over time, it can create data inconsistencies that disrupt operations.

Take the case of a company whose generalist NetSuite developer incorrectly set up inventory tracking. The result? Confused stock counts and unhappy customers. Specialized NetSuite developers prevent these headaches by getting it right the first time.

Higher Long-Term Expenses

Cutting corners with a NetSuite generalist often leads to higher costs down the road. Fixing errors, rebuilding workflows, and dealing with downtime isn’t cheap - or fun.

Investing in a NetSuite specialist from the start means fewer problems, faster solutions, and a system that supports your growth.

What to Look for in a NetSuite Specialist Developer

When you're looking for a true NetSuite expert, it’s not just about the technical know-how. Industry experience and a proactive problem-solving mindset are just as important to ensure they can handle your unique challenges. 

A man and woman collaborate on a computer, focused on their work as NetSuite Specialist Developers.

A great NetSuite specialist will not only know the system inside and out but will also understand how it works best within your specific business context.

Depth of Knowledge in Core NetSuite Areas

Look for NetSuite developers who can handle the technical heavy lifting. Skills like SuiteScript (custom coding), SuiteFlow (workflow automation), and integration expertise are non-negotiable.

Industry Experience

A NetSuite developer with industry-specific experience brings invaluable insights. For example, someone who’s worked with retail businesses will understand the complexities of inventory management and e-commerce integrations.

Problem-Solving Focus

A true NetSuite specialist isn’t just reactive - they’re proactive. They anticipate issues, identify inefficiencies, and offer solutions before problems arise. That’s the kind of expertise you want on your team.

How to Find the Right Fit for Your Team

Finding the right NetSuite developer is about more than just technical skills; it’s about ensuring they mesh well with your team and truly understand your business needs. 

Whether you’re hiring in-house or looking to partner with a NetSuite staffing provider, the right fit can make all the difference in how smoothly your NetSuite system operates. 

A careful evaluation process will help you identify someone who not only has the right expertise but is also a good long-term investment.

Assessing Credentials and Experience

When evaluating candidates, look beyond buzzwords. Review their portfolios, ask for real-world examples of their work, and dig into how they’ve tackled challenges in the past.

Leveraging Staff Augmentation Services

Hiring doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Partnering with a trusted provider like Atticus Solutions gives you access to a pool of pre-vetted NetSuite experts, saving you time and ensuring quality.

Asking the Right Questions During Interviews

Here are a few examples to uncover a candidate’s true capabilities:

  • “Can you walk us through a complex workflow you built?”
  • “How have you approached integrating NetSuite with other software?”
  • “What’s the most challenging problem you’ve solved in NetSuite?”

The right NetSuite developer will answer with confidence and detail.

Invest in the Right Talent for Long-Term Success

Choosing a specialized NetSuite developer isn’t just a smart move - it’s the foundation for your system’s success. The right NetSuite expert ensures your workflows are seamless, your integrations are strong, and your investment is protected.

Don’t settle for a jack-of-all-trades when you can have a master.

Need expert help? Book a call with Atticus Solutions and let us connect you with top-tier NetSuite developers today.

Aspect
Offshoring
Nearshoring
Outsourcing
Long-Term Costs
Cost-effective for skilled talent
Cost-effective but needs initial investment
High, offers control and flexibility
Investment
Moderate, reduces overhead
Initial training and technology
Highest initial and ongoing costs
Benefits
Access to nearby skilled talent
Large global talent pool
Maximum control over operations
Download the Salary Guide to compare average salaries of top NetSuite ERP professionals.
Key Differences
BPO
EOR
Not over PHP 250,000
Tax-exempt
Not over USD 434.49
Over PHP 250,000 but not over PHP 400,000
15% of the excess over PHP 250,000
Over USD 434.49 but not over USD 695.18
Over PHP 400,000 but not over PHP 800,000
PHP 22,500 + 20% of the excess over PHP 400,000
Over USD 695.18 but not over USD 1,390.36
Over PHP 800,000 but not over PHP 2,000,000
PHP 102,500 + 25% of the excess over PHP 800,000
Over USD 1,390.36 but not over USD 34,759.04

Frequently Asked Questions

SALARY GUIDE EBOOK

Compare NetSuite ERP talent salaries

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