Digital transformation promises efficiency, innovation, and growth. Yet for many organizations, the journey is far more complicated than expected. ERP projects stretch timelines, costs increase, and systems that were meant to transform operations often deliver only a portion of their intended value. Companies invest heavily in technology, but the real challenge lies in aligning people, processes, and strategy to make that technology work.

What separates successful transformations from those that fall short is not the software itself, but the guidance behind the implementation. Organizations that succeed approach transformation with clear vision, strong change management, and independent expertise that keeps their business interests at the center of every decision.

This is the philosophy that drives Third Stage Consulting Group. The firm has built its reputation on helping organizations move beyond simply installing software and instead achieve meaningful, lasting transformation. By combining deep industry expertise with a client-first approach, Third Stage has become a trusted partner for organizations seeking to unlock the full potential of their ERP and digital transformation initiatives.

A Consulting Firm Built Around Client Success

Founded in 2018, Third Stage Consulting Group was created with a clear mission: to help organizations reach the final and most meaningful stage of digital transformation—where technology investments translate into real business value.

The firm was established by Eric Kimberling, a widely respected ERP consultant who spent years advising organizations on complex technology implementations. Through his experience, he observed a recurring pattern. Many ERP projects began with strong ambition, but few reached their full potential. Businesses would select and implement systems, yet fail to fully realize the operational improvements and strategic advantages they expected.

Determined to change that narrative, Kimberling assembled a team of some of the most experienced ERP and digital transformation professionals in the industry. Together, they created a consulting firm that operates differently from traditional technology advisors. Rather than aligning with software vendors, Third Stage focuses entirely on its clients’ interests.

The company blends the expertise and global reach of a large consultancy with the agility and personalized approach of a smaller team. Its consultants immerse themselves in each client’s organization, working closely with leadership and stakeholders to understand their culture, challenges, and long-term vision.

This client-first philosophy ensures that every recommendation supports the organization’s broader goals, not just the implementation of a particular system.

Independent ERP Guidance that Drives Real Results

ERP systems are among the most significant investments a company can make. When implemented successfully, they can unify operations, streamline processes, and provide powerful insights that drive better decision-making.

However, ERP implementations are also complex and high-risk. Without the right strategy and guidance, organizations can face costly delays, operational disruption, and systems that fail to deliver the promised value.

Third Stage Consulting Group addresses this challenge by providing independent ERP selection and implementation support. Because the firm is not tied to any specific vendor, its consultants are able to provide unbiased advice tailored entirely to the client’s needs.

The team works closely with organizations to evaluate potential ERP platforms, define requirements, and ensure that the chosen solution aligns with long-term business objectives. Their expertise spans leading platforms such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, and other major enterprise systems.

But Third Stage’s work does not stop at software selection. The firm guides clients throughout the entire implementation process, helping them navigate the technical, operational, and organizational complexities that often accompany large-scale ERP projects.

This holistic approach helps organizations implement systems that truly support their business goals—delivering measurable improvements in efficiency, agility, and performance.

Turning Digital Strategy into Business Transformation

While ERP systems play a central role in many transformations, technology alone cannot drive meaningful change. Successful organizations understand that digital transformation is as much about people and processes as it is about software.

Third Stage Consulting Group specializes in helping organizations build digital strategies that align technology investments with broader business objectives. The firm works with leadership teams to develop clear roadmaps that define how digital initiatives will enhance operations, improve customer experiences, and strengthen competitive positioning.

These strategies often extend beyond ERP systems to include CRM platforms, AI solutions, and advanced supply chain technologies. By taking an integrated approach, Third Stage ensures that each technology initiative supports a unified vision for the organization’s future.

This strategic guidance enables companies to move forward with confidence, knowing that their transformation efforts are aligned with measurable outcomes and long-term growth.

Accelerating Success with Mission Control AI

One of the most distinctive innovations introduced by Third Stage Consulting Group is Mission Control AI, a proprietary platform designed to simplify and accelerate digital transformation projects.

Built using insights from more than 400 successful transformations and the collective expertise of over 100 consultants, Mission Control AI acts as an intelligent engine embedded throughout the transformation journey.

The platform helps automate and enhance key tasks such as requirements gathering, business process mapping, system fit-gap analysis, and change impact assessments. It also supports implementation planning, testing documentation, and decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

By integrating AI into the consulting process, Mission Control AI enables organizations to move faster while reducing risk and cost. It improves the quality of deliverables, enhances collaboration, and allows project teams to focus on strategic priorities rather than manual tasks.

For organizations navigating complex ERP and digital transformation initiatives, this intelligent toolset provides a powerful advantage—helping them achieve better outcomes with greater efficiency.

Helping Organizations Reach Their Maximum Potential

Digital transformation is rarely a straightforward journey. It requires vision, resilience, and the ability to navigate complex technological and organizational change.

Third Stage Consulting Group has built its reputation on helping organizations overcome these challenges and unlock the full value of their technology investments. By combining independent expertise, strategic insight, and innovative tools, the firm empowers businesses to move beyond basic implementation and achieve lasting transformation.

For organizations striving to turn ambitious digital initiatives into tangible business success, Third Stage Consulting Group stands as a trusted guide—helping them reach the stage where technology, strategy, and people come together to drive meaningful growth and long-term impact.

Eric Kimberling | CEO

Eric Kimberling is the most recognized and respected independent ERP systems expert in the world, giving 100% unbiased advice to clients for over 20 years. Eric has dedicated himself to giving keynote speeches at industry conferences and universities worldwide, and has been quoted in thousands of articles in newspapers, magazines, and books, including the Wall Street Journal, CIO Magazine, and Fortune. He has served as the expert witness in the industry’s highest-profile legal cases, representing both government and private companies across the globe. He is also the author of the acclaimed book, “An Expert’s Guide to ERP Success.”

“Third Stage Consulting brings together the industry’s most talented and effective digital transformation, ERP, organizational change, business process improvement, and company culture professionals.”