What Is A NetSuite Release Preview?

Release Preview is a temporary, pre-upgrade version of your NetSuite environment, provided to you by NetSuite before each major update (typically in Q1 and Q3). It gives you a safe space to test how upcoming changes will affect your specific configuration, customizations, and integrations.

Think of it as a sneak peek at the next version of NetSuite—complete with your data, roles, workflows, and custom scripts—all running on the new release.  In reality, its like another sandbox except it has all the upcoming new features in it for you to test out.

Why It Matters

Skipping Release Preview means you’re going into a system upgrade blind. That can lead to:

• Broken scripts or workflows
• Incorrect financial reporting
• Inconsistent dashboard behavior
• Unexpected changes in approval flows or user access

Release Preview allows you to catch these issues before they impact on your business. It’s also your opportunity to explore new features and enhancements before they go live.

How to Request Your Release Preview Environment

Here’s how to request access:

1. Login to your NetSuite account
2. Navigate to: Setup > Company > Release Preview
3. Click “Request Release Preview”
4. Wait for confirmation from NetSuite (usually 1–3 business days)
5. When it is provisioned, you will see access

Pro Tip: You will need to have permission to request the Release Preview.  Typically, this is done by someone with Administrator permission.

What to Test in Release Preview

Focus on the areas most likely to break, especially those with custom scripts, complex workflows, or heavy automation.

High-Risk Testing Priorities

• Custom Workflows – Any scripted or multi-step approvals, routing, or automation.
• Modules with complexity – Revenue recognition schedules and related journal entries.
• Custom Scripts – User events, client scripts, scheduled scripts that touch core transactions.
• Complex Saved Searches & Reports – Especially those with formulas or custom joins.
• Custom Forms & Fields – Verify that field behavior, validations, and dependencies still work.

Use your sandbox or production environment as a control to compare results and spot differences.

Final Thought: Turn Risk into Opportunity

Release Preview isn’t just about avoiding breakage—it’s about getting ahead. Every release comes with enhancements that can streamline operations, automate tasks, or improve your reporting. Use this period to:

• Clean up legacy configurations
• Identify underused modules or features
• Explore new automation tools NetSuite may be rolling out

It’s a great time to align your platform with your evolving business needs on your terms.