Twice a year, Oracle NetSuite rolls out major updates that bring new features, enhancements, and critical security patches. While these updates are powerful, going live without testing could lead to unexpected disruptions in your business processes.
That’s where the NetSuite Release Preview (RP) environment becomes your best friend. It allows you to test the upcoming release in a safe sandbox—before it hits your production account.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to effectively use the Release Preview, what to test, and best practices to ensure a smooth transition.
What Is the NetSuite Release Preview?
The Release Preview is a temporary environment provided by NetSuite ahead of each new version (e.g., 2025.1, 2025.2). It mirrors your production environment and allows you to:
- Test customizations, scripts, workflows, and integrations
- Identify potential disruptions
- Train users on new UI or features
- Explore new modules and capabilities
Steps to Request and Access Your Release Preview
- Log in to your NetSuite account
- Go to: Setup > Company > Release Preview
- Click on Request Release Preview Account
- You will receive access to a cloned version of your production account in the upcoming release environment
Tip: It’s best to request your RP account as early as possible, especially if your system has complex customizations.
What Should You Test in the Release Preview?
To get the most out of your RP access, prioritize the following:
1. Custom Scripts (SuiteScript 1.0 & 2.x)
Test all User Event Scripts, Suitelets, Scheduled Scripts, and RESTlets. New versions may deprecate or alter API behavior.
2. Workflows and Automations
Validate workflows in NetSuite’s Workflow Manager to ensure that triggers, transitions, and actions are still functioning.
3. Saved Searches and Reports
Ensure saved searches, formulas, and custom reports return accurate results—especially those used in dashboards or KPIs.
4. Integrations (3rd-Party APIs)
Use the preview to test integrations with tools like Shopify, Zendesk, Salesforce, or EDI systems. Ensure data sync and custom fields remain consistent.
5. User Roles & Permissions
Sometimes release changes can affect permissions or UI behavior. Test access levels across roles to avoid workflow disruption.
6. SuiteCommerce (if applicable)
If you’re using SuiteCommerce Advanced, test your frontend store for changes in checkout behavior, layout, or performance issues.
Best Practices for a Smooth Release
Document Your Test Plan
Create a checklist of critical business processes and run them end-to-end. Involve key departments (finance, sales, warehouse) in user testing.
Test in Batches
Group tests by modules (e.g., financials, CRM, inventory) to isolate issues efficiently.
Record Any Anomalies
Note down errors or unusual behavior and verify whether it’s due to the update or your custom configuration.
Stay Updated
Review NetSuite’s Release Notes and SuiteAnswers to understand what’s changing. Oracle usually publishes detailed documentation ahead of the update.
Post-Testing: What’s Next?
Once your testing is complete:
- Document changes needed before the release goes live
- Update scripts or integrations if needed
- Train users on any new UI or process updates
- Schedule a final review with your NetSuite administrator or implementation partner
How UAND Solutions Can Help
At UAND Solutions, we ensure that your NetSuite system is release-ready—with zero disruption. Our team of certified consultants will:
- Perform a full impact analysis of your environment
- Test critical processes and automation
- Adjust scripts and integrations as needed
- Train your internal team on new features
Avoid post-release surprises. Let us help you stay ahead of NetSuite updates with confidence.
Need help with your next NetSuite release cycle?
Contact UAND Solutions today and ensure your ERP keeps running smoothly—no matter what version you’re on.
