Why ERP Matters in Life Sciences
The life sciences industry is evolving quickly, and companies need ERP for life sciences that is both reliable and scalable. From shifting regulations to unpredictable capital markets, firms require efficient, low-risk ERP systems to stay compliant and support growth.
Traditional ERP implementations often come with high costs and unnecessary complexity. That’s why many life sciences firms are choosing more agile and affordable options like NetSuite, powered by RSM’s Velocity method. This approach helps organizations stay flexible without taking on the financial burden of long, resource-heavy ERP projects.
Tackling Common ERP Challenges
Two of the biggest challenges in ERP projects are integration complexity and user adoption.
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Integration complexity can increase costs and slow projects, especially when multiple third-party systems are involved.
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User adoption is often difficult when employees move from familiar systems like Microsoft GP to NetSuite. Success depends on careful planning, training, and ongoing support.
RSM’s Velocity method is designed to address these issues, creating a smoother transition for life sciences firms moving to NetSuite.
Rapid NetSuite Implementation with RSM Velocity
Unlike traditional rollouts, RSM Velocity makes it possible to implement NetSuite in just six to eight weeks. This faster timeline is especially valuable for life sciences companies moving beyond systems like QuickBooks, which cannot keep up with complex financial and compliance requirements.
Velocity includes:
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General ledger setup
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Procure-to-pay processes
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HR and AP system integrations
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Automated workflows that reduce reliance on manual tools
This streamlined setup improves compliance, lowers risk, and creates a foundation that can scale as the business grows.
Adapting to a Challenging Economy
The financial landscape for life sciences companies is tough. Venture capital and private equity funding have slowed, IPO activity has declined, and M&A deals are shifting toward fewer but larger transactions.
In this environment, companies need ERP systems that can grow with them. Whether preparing for an IPO, managing licensing agreements, or pursuing acquisitions, NetSuite implemented with RSM Velocity gives life sciences firms the flexibility to adjust quickly.
Why Choose RSM for Life Sciences?
RSM brings more than technology knowledge. With over 1,300 life sciences clients and 1,400 professionals across North America, RSM offers:
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Deep industry expertise and compliance knowledge
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Support for commercialization and IPO readiness
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Long-term partnerships through managed services and advisory
The dedicated life sciences practice at RSM ensures that ERP solutions are tailored to the unique challenges of the industry.
Moving Beyond QuickBooks
QuickBooks works well for startups, but it quickly becomes limiting as life sciences companies grow. It does not provide the tools needed for multi-entity management, foreign currencies, or strict regulatory compliance.
NetSuite, implemented with RSM Velocity, gives growing companies the structure and scalability they need to manage complexity and expand with confidence.
How RSM Velocity Works
Velocity is built for speed and scalability. It delivers ERP implementations in four to six weeks using preconfigured NetSuite tools and proven workflows.
Key elements include:
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Prepackaged general ledger and chart of accounts
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Role-based approvals and vendor invoice workflows
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Structured data migration templates
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Weekly milestones and clear deliverables
By starting projects with much of the setup already complete, Velocity reduces timelines and lowers risk.
Ongoing Support After Go-Live
An ERP implementation is not the finish line. It is the starting point. RSM provides managed services to support:
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New system releases
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Report writing
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User management
As companies grow, RSM also helps with acquisitions, IPO preparations, and global rollouts, ensuring ERP systems evolve alongside the business.
The Bottom Line
Life sciences companies need ERP systems that are reliable, scalable, and adaptable. RSM Velocity for NetSuite offers a fast, low-risk solution that simplifies ERP implementation, supports growth, and helps companies stay competitive in a challenging market.
With preconfigured tools, structured processes, and deep industry expertise, RSM provides more than technology. It delivers a long-term partnership for success.