NetSuite CPQ AI Assistant: Generative AI Tool in 2026.1

Starting in NetSuite 2026.1, the new CPQ AI Assistant simplifies and enhances how products and services are configured within the NetSuite CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) module. This innovative tool leverages generative AI to guide users through complex configurations using natural language prompts, significantly improving the configuration experience for both casual buyers and experienced sales representatives.

How the CPQ AI Assistant Works

The CPQ AI Assistant uses a large language model (LLM) to interpret user inputs and provide tailored guidance. Here’s how it operates:

• Activation: When a user selects a configurable item in a transaction, such as a bicycle, a Configure with CPQ Assistant button appears at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
• Guided Interaction: Clicking this button launches a chat interface where users can describe their needs in natural language—e.g., stating they want a bike for parks and trails.
• Real-Time Recommendations: The assistant asks clarifying questions based on user input to refine the configuration process, ultimately delivering a suitable recommendation tailored to the user's specifications.

Role of Administrators and CPQ Product Builders

Users with the Administrator or CPQ Product Builder roles play a crucial role in preparing the AI’s capabilities:

• Preparation of Records: Administrators can manage product, question, and answer records in the CPQ AI Assistant subtab.
• Quality Assurance: This subtab allows for the assessment of readiness, creation of AI-driven descriptions, and adherence to quality standards before end users can access the assistant.
• Visibility Control: Administrators can also define where and when users encounter the AI Assistant, ensuring it is deployed effectively in various scenarios.

Important Considerations

• Availability: Initially, the CPQ AI Assistant is available only in non-production environments, including sandbox and release preview accounts. This limitation allows for testing and optimization before broader deployment.
• Data Responsibility: Users are reminded that while the AI provides recommendations, it is the user’s responsibility to validate and approve these suggestions, as the data utilized may be processed under Oracle’s Privacy Policy.

The introduction of the CPQ AI Assistant is a significant step towards enhancing user interaction with complex configurations in NetSuite. With its intuitive interface and generative capabilities, it promises to streamline the configuration process, making it more accessible to all users.

Who This Affects

• Administrators: Responsible for configuring the assistant and managing AI records.
• CPQ Product Builders: Engage with the AI to ensure product configurations meet quality standards.
• Sales Representatives and Buyers: Users who will interact directly with the AI Assistant for product configuration.

Key Takeaways

• The CPQ AI Assistant is a generative AI tool introduced in NetSuite 2026.1.
• It enhances the product configuration experience through natural language interactions.
• Administrative roles are crucial for managing and preparing records for the AI Assistant.
• Initially available only in non-production accounts for testing and refinement.
• Users must validate AI suggestions to ensure accurate configurations.