Roadmap to Data-Driven Decision-Making with NetSuite

In today’s fast-paced business world, making decisions based on solid data isn’t just a competitive advantage, it’s essential for growth. Yet, many companies find themselves stuck with fragmented reporting systems and scattered spreadsheets, struggling to turn their data into actionable insights. Mikko Kurki, Staria's Head of Commercial Excellence shares his insights on how companies can successfully make this leap—especially when leveraging NetSuite as their core ERP.

The common pitfalls

Most businesses start their analytics journey with high hopes: better dashboards, automated reports, and smarter planning. But too often, they jump straight into Business Intelligence (BI) solutions without laying the groundwork. Without a central data platform or warehouse, BI tools merely visualize existing data, they don’t prepare, cleanse, or unify it. The result? BI teams spend their days patching together reports, business users revert to Excel, and leaders still lack the visibility they need to plan for the future. The core issue isn’t the BI tool itself; it’s the lack of a unified data platform.

A smarter roadmap

So, what does a successful journey to data-driven management look like? Mikko argues that “stage zero” should always be the implementation of a robust data platform, a centralized hub where data from NetSuite and other operational sources can be unified, cleansed, and version-controlled. This foundation ensures scalability, performance, and connectivity for all subsequent BI and planning solutions.

The first actionable step is automating financial reporting. Financial data is typically the most essential information for any business. By automating these reports, organizations define their business language (charts of accounts, departments, and units) which forms the backbone for integrating other operational data.

With financial reporting running smoothly, it’s time to add operational data to the mix. This step is crucial for modern planning, where forecasts and performance management rely on more than just past numbers. By integrating data from sales, HR, and other departments, businesses can move toward driver-based planning where key metrics and activities impact future decisions.

Improving planning and collaboration

With comprehensive data in place, organizations can enhance their planning, whether it’s financial, resource utilization, or demand forecasting. For truly accurate forecasts and increased data literacy, collaboration is key. The approach known as xP&A (Extended Planning and Analysis), includes all departments in planning and analysis, ensuring that those closest to the key drivers take ownership, making decisions more informed and aligned.

This collaborative, KPI-led environment means everyone operates from a single source of truth, understanding what drives business performance. Importantly, while AI is often touted as the next frontier, its effectiveness depends entirely on the quality of the underlying data. Establishing a strong data platform not only supports BI and planning but also lays the groundwork for future AI initiatives.

NetSuite and Naviloq: the power combo

NetSuite sits at the heart of many businesses, ensuring smooth, high-quality data flow across financial and operational processes. To achieve full data-driven management, Mikko suggests to combine NetSuite with Naviloq, Staria’s BI and planning solution designed specifically for the NetSuite ecosystem.

Naviloq combines all the necessary elements for data-driven business management: a built-in data platform (data warehouse), no-code BI for self-service reporting, integrated planning and budgeting tools, and robust collaboration features. With seamless integration between NetSuite and Naviloq, businesses can easily migrate legacy data, automate reporting, and combine insights from multiple platforms.

Implementing Naviloq typically takes three to four months, with the scope often expanding as businesses realize new possibilities. After implementation, the process is ongoing as technology and organizational needs keep evolving.

Conclusion

Mikko’s advice is clear: start with finance, build a strong data platform, and expand from there. Avoid the temptation to rely solely on BI tools without a proper data warehouse, as this can lead to slow queries and maintenance headaches. Instead, focus on creating a scalable, reliable system that grows with your business. However, keep in mind that building a data-driven organization is an ongoing process. It isn’t about buying the latest software, it’s about creating a culture where everyone trusts and uses data to guide their actions.