Sage Intacct is a powerful cloud-based ERP system that delivers real-time financial and operations performance insights. Sage Intacct also helps companies modernize its business processes and increase the value it provides to customers and employees. However, its success hinges on one critical factor: a well-executed Sage Intacct implementation. Unfortunately, implementations often go off the rails due to poor planning, inexperienced consultants, or a lack of accountability. Read a few horror stories here.
In our Sage Intacct practice, we’ve seen it all. From mishandled data migrations to misaligned expectations, our team specializes in “rescuing” Sage Intacct implementations. We bring transparency, experience, and a commitment to deliver what was promised. Here’s why we see many implementations fail—and how we step in to set things right.
The Pitfalls of A Sage Intacct Implementation
Many Sage Intacct implementations fail to deliver the expected results, often for predictable reasons.
- A disconnect between sales and delivery
It’s common for sales teams to overpromise and then hand off a project to delivery teams ill-equipped to deliver. We call this “throwing it over the fence.” The result? Unrealistic and unrealized expectations, inadequate budgets, and missed outcomes.
- Lack of expertise
Too often, implementations are treated like installations. Inexperienced consultants rely on generic checklists and focus solely on system setup screens without understanding the business’s unique needs. They may know the software but lack the business acumen to configure and align the system with your goals.
- Poor scoping and planning
Many implementations start without clear business requirements or an understanding of the complexity involved. Without proper scoping, it’s easy to underestimate timelines, data migration challenges, or integration needs.
- Vendor-specific issues
When software publishers sell directly to the customer and then contract with a third-party VAR to handle implementation, accountability nearly always gets lost. Without a cohesive plan or a single point of responsibility, the project can quickly derail.
There Is a Better Way
We take a different approach—one rooted in accountability, expertise, and transparency.
- Accountability from day one
We don’t separate promise makers from promise keepers. Our sales and implementation teams work together to ensure a seamless transition from planning to execution. Everything we promise during the sales process is deliverable, and we allocate the budget and resources needed to make it happen.
- Deep industry expertise
ERP implementations are not one-size-fits-all. Our consultants bring years of experience, not just with Sage Intacct but also within multiple specific industries. We understand the challenges you face and how to translate your business goals into a functional system.
- Frontloading the process
We believe in putting in the work upfront. Before implementation, we ask clients to identify four or five key outcomes they expect on Day 1—what they need to accomplish the moment the system goes live. This ensures shared understanding and alignment, avoiding the common pitfall of endless feature lists that don’t address core business needs.
- Support that goes beyond go-live
Many VARs push clients into expensive support agreements with little added value. Our comprehensive first-level support covers most needs to ensure a smooth transition. From there, we focus on continuous improvement, helping you get the most out of your system as your business evolves.
Why Rescues Are Sometimes Necessary
Even with the best intentions, ERP implementations can fail. When that happens, a rescue or reimplementation is often the best path forward. We see several reasons for rescues, including:
- Data migration errors
Poor data quality or incomplete migrations can leave you with inaccurate records. - Misaligned configurations
Systems that don’t match your business processes create inefficiencies instead of solving them. - Inadequate training
Without proper user training, adoption suffers, leading to errors and frustration. - Unrealistic timelines
Rushing through testing or skipping critical steps often leads to post-go-live problems.
How to Rescue a Troubled Implementation
When a Sage Intacct implementation goes off course, we step in to assess, realign, and deliver a system that meets your expectations.
- Assess the current state
We start by analyzing what went wrong—whether it’s poor planning, lack of expertise, or technical issues. This comprehensive assessment helps us identify gaps and prioritize fixes.
- Revisit business requirements
Misaligned configurations are a common issue. We work with you to understand your current and future needs, ensuring the system supports your goals.
- Bring in experienced consultants
Our team specializes in both Sage Intacct and business processes, bridging the gap between technology and strategy. We don’t rely on checklists—we deliver solutions tailored to your business.
- Focus on training and adoption
User adoption is critical to ERP success. We provide thorough, ongoing training to ensure your team feels confident and capable using Sage Intacct.
- Deliver continuous improvement
A successful Sage Intacct implementation isn’t the end of the journey. We stay involved, optimizing the system as your needs evolve and ensuring it continues to deliver value.
Choosing the Right Partner
Rescuing a failed Sage Intacct implementation is a significant challenge, but we excel at it. Indeed, we pride ourselves on stepping up when others fall short.
When choosing a VAR, don’t just take their word for it. Ask for references and speak to their clients:
- Did you get what you thought you were getting?
- Did the VAR deliver on their promises?
- When things got rocky, did they take ownership?
With BT Partners, the answer to all of these questions is yes.
Getting it Right the First Time—or Fixing it When it Goes Wrong
A Sage Intacct implementation done right is transformative, enabling you to streamline processes, gain insights, and achieve your business goals. However, when things go wrong, it’s important to act quickly to get back on track.
Whether you’re starting fresh or need a rescue, BT Partners is here to help. With a proven track record of accountability, expertise, and delivering results, we’re the partner you can count on to make Sage Intacct work for you.
Ready to make your implementation a success? Let’s talk.
