BFN certification
What is Built for NetSuite (BFN) certification?
Built for NetSuite (BFN) is NetSuite's quality assurance program that ensures third-party SuiteApps meet the same standards for security, data privacy and overall quality as solutions offered by NetSuite. Think of it as a seal of approval – when you see that BFN badge, you know the app has been thoroughly vetted.
The program works on three pillars: education, consultation and confirmation. NetSuite guides developers like Zone & Co through best practices, provides ongoing support and requires rigorous testing before awarding certification.
The three BFN badge types
Not all SuiteApps are built the same way. BFN certification comes in three flavors, each indicating how the solution integrates with NetSuite:
Native SuiteApps
The entire solution lives on the SuiteCloud platform. These apps run completely inside your NetSuite account – no external servers, no separate logins. They're deployed through SuiteBundler and every component falls under BFN review. It's like having a built-in feature rather than a bolt-on solution.
Integrated SuiteApps
The majority of the solution resides externally to the NetSuite platform. These are standalone applications that sync data with NetSuite through custom integrations or generic connectors. BFN only reviews the integration components – not the external application itself.
Hybrid SuiteApps
These solutions mix platform-resident components and external components. Part of the app runs natively in NetSuite while other features operate externally. BFN reviews both the native components and integration touchpoints.
Oracle NetSuite vs. partner SuiteApps: What's the difference?
SuiteApps are developed by Oracle NetSuite, or by members of the SuiteCloud Developer Network (SDN), a third-party developer program. Here's how they differ:
Oracle NetSuite SuiteApps are built, distributed and supported directly by Oracle NetSuite. These typically address broad business needs and undergo NetSuite's internal development process. You'll find these listed with "Oracle NetSuite" as the owner on your Installed Bundles page.
Partner SuiteApps come from SDN partners like Zone & Co – independent software vendors who build specialized solutions for specific industries or business challenges. All SDN partners must complete the BFN review process before going to market. These apps fill gaps where businesses need industry-specific functionality beyond NetSuite's core offering.
Both types appear in the SuiteApp Marketplace, but partner solutions carry their BFN badge type (Native, Integrated or Hybrid) to help you understand exactly how they'll work with your NetSuite instance.
Why BFN certification matters?
The Built for NetSuite badge must be renewed for every major NetSuite release – that's twice yearly.
For businesses evaluating SuiteApps, the BFN badge answers a critical question: Will this solution actually work as promised? While the program doesn't provide any guarantee from NetSuite, it does mean the app has passed customer reference checks, technical demonstrations and security reviews.
The bottom line? BFN certification helps you choose SuiteApps with confidence, knowing they've been built to NetSuite's standards and will continue working as your system evolves.
Common questions about BFN certification
Do NetSuite addons that are "Built for NetSuite" need to be on NetSuite's SuiteApp store?
Eventually, yes – but timing matters. If a vendor claims BFN certification but their app is missing from SuiteApp.com, they might be in the approval process. The BFN review and marketplace listing happen in stages, and there can be gaps between certification approval and marketplace appearance.
Best practice? Ask the vendor directly why their app isn't on the marketplace yet. They should explain where they are in the process – whether they're awaiting final approval, fixing publishing requirements or resolving technical issues. If they can't give you a clear answer, that's a red flag.
How can I verify that an addon is certified as "Built for NetSuite"?
Three ways to check:
- Look for the badge on SuiteApp.com – Search for the app on NetSuite's public marketplace. BFN-certified apps display their badge type (Native, Integrated or Hybrid) clearly on their listing.
- Check your Installed Bundles list – Go to Customization > SuiteBundler > Search & Install Bundles > List. The Owner column shows who developed it. Look for any BFN indicators in the bundle description.
- Ask the vendor directly – Legitimate BFN partners will readily share their certification status and renewal dates. They should also tell you which badge type they hold.
Remember: BFN certification expires. Always verify the app has current certification for your NetSuite release version.