DoorDash defied conventional wisdom by scaling its operations from a startup to a global powerhouse without undergoing a disruptive and expensive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system overhaul. The company, which now serves over 50 million consumers across more than 40 countries, managed this feat while maintaining its original Oracle NetSuite business system. This approach stands in stark contrast to the typical trajectory of high-growth companies that often face the dilemma of either sticking with inadequate early-stage systems or enduring a complex and costly platform migration.
The company's Chief Accounting Officer, Gordon Lee, attributed this success to a strategic decision to build a scalable ecosystem. This ecosystem prioritized flexibility and integration, allowing various teams to utilize the tools best suited for their specific needs. This approach proved crucial as DoorDash expanded rapidly, including the acquisitions of Helsinki-based Wolt in 2022 and UK-based Deliveroo in 2025.
Instead of forcing uniformity, DoorDash sought a platform that could seamlessly connect its diverse systems, encompassing ERP, CRM, HR, and sourcing. This decision reflected a broader philosophy of empowering customers and business partners to leverage their preferred tools. The company's focus was on managing expectations and ensuring smooth integration as it navigated rapid growth.
DoorDash's experience highlights a potential shift in how companies approach ERP systems. Traditionally, ERP implementations are viewed as monolithic projects requiring significant investment and disruption. However, DoorDash's success suggests that a more modular and flexible approach, centered on integration and interoperability, can be a viable alternative. This approach could be particularly appealing to companies in dynamic industries where agility and adaptability are paramount.
Looking ahead, DoorDash's model could influence other fast-growing companies to reconsider their ERP strategies. By prioritizing flexibility and integration over a rigid, one-size-fits-all solution, businesses can potentially avoid costly and disruptive overhauls while still maintaining the scalability and control necessary to support rapid growth. The company's continued success will likely serve as a case study for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of scaling in today's rapidly evolving business landscape.
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