How to Maintain Network Security During a NetSuite Implementation
NetSuite is one of the most secure Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software systems available, including multi-factor authentication and token-based application authentication. However, implementing NetSuite is often a long process that can entail numerous contractors and other parties working within your system.
During the transfer and adjustment period, you must take extra care with your data security to ensure that everything is moved properly and no data is lost. Today, we’ll explore how you can ensure that your data is safe during this critical transition period.
Choose a Quality NetSuite Services Provider
A NetSuite implementation partner is a critical ally while planning and implementing your ERP solution. These consultants can plan each step of the process, relying on their past experiences with system implementation to guide their work.
NetSuite consultants are also highly familiar with the system’s security measures. They can ensure that you are using all of the built-in features, such as end-to-end encryption and password expiration dates. Most importantly, their organization will have a culture of security, always treating your data and privacy with the utmost respect.
When choosing an implementation partner, ask about their security measures to ensure that you are both on the same page. Discuss their backup plans in case of a security breach, and don’t proceed with the contract if they don’t provide satisfactory answers.
Develop an Incident Response Plan
Even with the best data security, leaks and breaches do still happen, especially if hackers are aware that you’re in the middle of transferring data to an ERP. After hiring a consulting firm, but before you begin implementation, develop a response plan for any potential security breaches with your consultants.
A comprehensive response plan should include detection, intervention, and follow-up measures. The more that you can automate the process, the easier it will be to ensure that nothing is missed. Many consultant firms also have continuous monitoring and can act quickly if there is an incident, providing additional peace of mind.
Train Your Users on Data Security
Your employees are your first line of defense against data breaches, so you must provide comprehensive cybersecurity training. During a large-scale implementation like NetSuite, offer refresher courses so that the information is current for all users.
Discuss elements like password protection, identifying phishing emails, how to report a potential cyberattack, and how to keep data safe during the transfer process. You should also explain how NetSuite’s security protocols work so that users understand the best practices for the new system. If you work in certain sectors, such as healthcare or banking, you may have additional security regulations that your employees must know about. Be sure to include these in your training.
Your implementation consulting firm will assist in training your users, especially about the differences between your old programs and the new NetSuite program. By relying on a good consulting firm, you’ll be able to bring your employees up to speed on data security.
Use Role-Based Access Protocols
Role-based access protocols enable you to restrict users to certain functions in the NetSuite system so that they have only what they need to perform their duties. This prevents employees from accessing sensitive information and can prevent data corruption, especially during the transfer process.
Your NetSuite implementation firm will help you in determining which roles you should provide to different employees. They can help you set up various roles, such as by department or by title, so that each worker has the correct access level. Always provide the minimum level that they would require to complete tasks successfully.
Conduct Regular Security Audits
Throughout the implementation, check in with your implementation partner and your IT team to review logs. NetSuite has built-in auditing software that records data changes, logins, and other information to check for suspicious activity. During each phase of the implementation, you should conduct an audit to ensure that nothing has been missed.
NetSuite also has firewalls, which your consulting firm should provide thorough monitoring. While these should automatically detect and deter cyberattacks, it’s also a good idea to look through them yourself in case something is missed. Firewalls are not foolproof, and it’s always possible that they may have ignored suspicious activity.
Working With a Great NetSuite Firm Will Ensure the Best Success
While you are an expert at your job, no one is a genius at everything. NetSuite partners have years of experience in enterprise resource planning, including the intricacies of security protocols during the sensitive implementation phase. By relying on a good consulting firm to help you through the process, you can ensure that you have a safe and secure experience leveraging this powerful software.