Pass it on: NetSuite shortcuts
- Martin

- May 13, 2025
- 2 min read
Sometimes NetSuite can be a little overwhelming for new users, and maybe a little “click heavy”. Often, this is because we, as implementers/trainers/consultants, don’t pass on those little shortcuts that make life easier.
Passing on a few essential shortcuts can greatly enhance the user experience. Share these five key NetSuite shortcuts that every user should use, including search prefixes and dashboard customization tips.
1. Search Prefixes
Using search prefixes in NetSuite can drastically improve search efficiency. This simple yet effective feature allows users to pinpoint records quickly without having to click through numerous menus.
Using the following search prefixes to quickly find all kinds of information:
· it: item
· in: invoice number
· inv: invoice
· cus: customer
· co: contact
· op: opportunity
· page: any page with that word in it
· pu: purchase order
· qu: quote
· sa: sales order/cash sale
· ve: vendor
2. Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are vital for speeding up your workflow in NetSuite. For example, pressing `Ctrl + E` opens the Edit mode for the record currently displayed. This saves clicks and helps make quick changes without fiddling through various tabs.
Another noteworthy shortcut is `Ctrl + F`, enabling searching within the current page. This feature is especially useful for locating specific information in lengthy documents or reports.
3. Dashboard Customisation
Personalising the NetSuite dashboard can lead to significant productivity gains. The dashboard serves as a central hub where we can access reports, graphs, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that matter most.
To customise the dashboard effectively:
Add portlets to display key information like sales figures, task lists, or reminders.
Rearrange portlets to create a layout that works best.
Remove any modules that not utilised.
To add a portlet, click on the "Personalize" button on the dashboard, and select from a range of options available.

4. Saved Searches
Saved Searches are an essential feature in NetSuite that help users retrieve specific data quickly. Rather than rerunning a search multiple times, we can save the search criteria for future use with just a few clicks. Add a saved search portlet for those frequent searches to the dashboard, as above.
To create a saved search, simply run a standard search using the desired filters. Once satisfied with the results, click the "Save Search" button. B
5. Custom Links and Shortcuts
NetSuite offers the ability to create custom links in the navigation menu, allowing quicker access to commonly used reports or functions. To set these up, navigate to the "Set Preferences" section and then to "Custom Links." Here, we can easily add links to specific records, searches, or pages that we visit often.
By doing this, we can access frequently used tools or reports in just one click, significantly enhancing your overall experience in NetSuite.

Maximising Your NetSuite Experience
Understanding and using NetSuite shortcuts can significantly improve efficiency and lead to a more satisfying experience. Whether it’s leveraging search prefixes for quick record retrieval, customising the dashboard for better data visibility, or frequently using saved searches and custom links for seamless navigation, these tools can help us get the most out of our NetSuite usage.


Comments