Customer Success Story: Tri Tool Technologies

How Protelo Helped Tri Tool Turn a Challenging NetSuite Implementation into Long-Term Success with Training and Customizations 

Updated: August 3rd, 2026

Tri Tool Technologies, a global leader in high-performance machine tools, needed a modern ERP system to replace its legacy on-premise platform and support continued growth. While NetSuite was the right choice for their business, the initial implementation experience created challenges around communication, customization, training, and internal adoption. 

After switching NetSuite partners, Tri Tool partnered with Protelo to rebuild confidence in the platform, simplify their environment, and create a NetSuite system their team could manage and grow with. 

Industry: Manufacturing 
Location: Rancho Cordova, California 
ERP: NetSuite 
Services: NetSuite Implementation Support, Optimization, Customization, Training 
Why Tri Tool Turned to Protelo After a Challenging NetSuite Implementation

Like many companies moving to a new ERP system, Tri Tool expected challenges during its transition. However, the initial NetSuite implementation created several obstacles that limited adoption and confidence in the platform.

The company experienced:
• Customizations That Did Not Match Expectations
• Lack of Cross-Department Collaboration
• Limited Training and Internal Knowledge
• Locked Customizations and Limited Flexibility

NetSuite implementation rescue - protelo inc

The Solution: Partnering with Protelo to Optimize NetSuite 

After evaluating its options, Tri Tool decided to continue with NetSuite but make a strategic partner change. 

The company partnered with Protelo to help stabilize its environment, improve usability, and create a NetSuite solution aligned with actual business needs. 

Protelo focused on three key areas: 
1. Understanding the Business Before Making Changes
2. Creating Open, Maintainable NetSuite Configurations
3. Building Practical Customizations That Supported Operations
Protelo created solutions designed around Tri Tool's actual processes.
netsuite wholesale distribution dashboard

How Protelo Helped Tri Tool Get More Value From NetSuite 

The biggest improvement was not just technical. It was creating a partnership built around collaboration, education, and long-term success. 

✓ Replace siloed decision-making with cross-functional collaboration
✓ Understand when to customize and use native NetSuite functionality
✓ Gain confidence managing the platform internally

✓ Improve workflows and system usability
✓ Build a scalable ERP foundation for future growth
✓ In-person training sessions

Custom Rental Billing Module

Tri Tool needed a way to manage open-ended equipment rental agreements that did not fit traditional billing models.

Protelo developed a customized rental billing solution that helped automate:

  • Rental billing processes
  • Customer notifications
  • Equipment return tracking
  • Ongoing contract management

Prepaid Shipping Controls 

To prevent products from shipping before payment was received, Protelo created a custom solution that added additional control to the fulfillment process.

This helped Tri Tool improve:

  • Revenue recognition processes
  • Shipping accuracy
  • Financial controls
 

Advice From Tri Tool: Lessons Learned From a NetSuite Implementation 

Reflecting on Tri Tool's NetSuite journey, Steve Shields, Business Systems and Technology Manager, emphasizes that choosing the right implementation partner is one of the most important decisions a company can make. He recommends involving stakeholders from across the business, avoiding unnecessary customizations until the team fully understands NetSuite's native capabilities, and investing in hands-on training. With the right partner, clear communication, and a focus on user adoption, companies can build a NetSuite solution that supports long-term success.

 

 

Looking for Help Rescuing a NetSuite Implementation? 

A difficult NetSuite implementation does not mean the platform is the wrong solution. Many companies need the right expertise to optimize their system, remove unnecessary complexity, and unlock more value. Protelo helps companies recover struggling NetSuite projects, improve existing environments, and build scalable ERP solutions that support long-term growth.

Here’s how our team ensures a successful implementation: 

  • Expert Guidance: With decades of experience in NetSuite implementation, integration, and consulting, we know how to guide you through every step of the process. 
  • Tailored Solutions: We understand that every business is unique. That’s why we customize configurations to fit your specific needs – no matter what industry you're in. 
  • Proven Success: We don’t just implement software – we take the time to understand your business, delivering real results that help you get the most from NetSuite and improve your day-to-day processes. 

 

 

You're in Great Company!

Protelo is passionate about helping companies succeed with NetSuite. Check more success stories to see how we’ve made a difference!

protelo customer success story - netsuite

 

 

 

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From ongoing support and custom solutions to on-demand NetSuite Administration, we’ve got you covered. Schedule a consultation today and see how our tailored services can optimize your system for long-term success.  

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