The JDE Connection

Latest Episodes:

Ep 13 - Interview with Jon Green Apr 29, 2024

Show notes

In Episode 13 of the JDE Connection, hosts Chandra Wobschall and Paul Houtkooper welcome guest Jon Green, Senior Director of JD Edwards Product Management and a recent addition to the JD Edwards leadership team. The episode delves into various aspects of customer support and product management within the software industry. Jon discusses the nuances of customer interactions, including the common errors made in support request submissions and the importance of providing complete contextual information for effective problem-solving. The discussion extends into the realms of product management and customer engagement, where Jon talks about the significance of direct customer interactions in enhancing software solutions. The episode also explores how customer feedback is incorporated into the product's development through SIG groups and the role of customers in prioritizing enhancements.

06:10 Customer mistakes, provide detailed information, include context.

08:40 Context is crucial for effective user support.

11:49 Shocking call with a customer.

17:27 Influencing product development, improving support, and learning.

20:20 Selecting and implementing the best customer ideas.

25:32 Learning through connections.

30:00 Midwesternernism of the Day.

Ep 12 – System Codes Apr 22, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The JDE Connection, hosts Chandra Wobschall and Paul Houtkooper dive into the nuances of navigating JDE's complex system codes, breaking down the components, modules and corresponding system codes for areas like Asset Lifecycle Management, CRM, and Financial Management. Listeners of the podcast will appreciate the comprehensive guide on system codes that Paul and Chandra expertly provide, significantly simplifying what can often be a daunting aspect of using JD Edwards.

01:09 – The importance of understanding system codes

03:28 – JDE Components, Modules and System Codes

29:00 – Midwesternism of the Day

Resource Links

Foundation Guide: https://docs.oracle.com/en/applications/jd-edwards/cross-product/9.2/eotfo/jd-edwards-enterpriseone-software-systems.html#u10034803

JD Edwards EnterpriseOne Localizations: https://docs.oracle.com/cd/E84502_01/learnjde/localization.html

User Access and Application Usage Tracking: https://apexapps.oracle.com/pls/apex/f?p=103254:8:110937331227642::NO::P8_FEATURE_ID,P8_PRODUCT_ID,P8_LAYER_ID:331661486652412329790348177838730147565,208136276869697198410960926144257606832,208126803266040266183916346690997863598

Ep 11 - Behind the Scenes at BLUEPRINT 4D Apr 15, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the JDE Connection, hosts Chandra Wobschall and Paul Houtkooper take you behind the scenes of Quest’s upcoming BLUEPRINT 4D conference at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, TX, May 7th – 10th. They highlight the keynotes and roadmap sessions on day one of the conference and then breakdown the updates from the product team and customer led sessions throughout the remainder of the week. Chandra then spotlights the Quest Special Interest Groups (SIGs), walking through the meeting dates and times. Finally, they discuss the focus for the Executive Forum and share the goals and high-level details behind Quest’s new Emerging Leaders program. Of course, no episode would be complete without a Midwesternism.

02:12 – Keynotes

05:54 – JD Edwards Strategy and Roadmap Sessions

06:45 – JD Edwards Product Team Sessions

13:40 – Customer Led Sessions

24:15 – The JDE Connection LIVE!

25:38 – SIG Schedule

29:24 – Executive Forum and Emerging Leaders Program

33:36 – Midwesternism of the Day

Resource Links

https://questoraclecommunity.org/events/conferences/blueprint4d/

https://docs.oracle.com/cd/E84502_01/learnjde/index.html

Ep 10 – Interview with Andrew Ostdiek – Part 3: Change Leaders Apr 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of JDE Connection, hosts Chandra Wobschall and Paul Houtkooper conclude their dynamic conversation with Andrew Ostdiek. The discussion centers around the notion of Business Analysts (BAs) as 'Change Leaders', highlighting their responsibility in advocating for changes and utilization of JD Edwards' solutions in business operations without relying on third-party systems or unnecessary customizations. This episode underscores the importance of empathy and communication, as well as personal growth and active involvement in Special Interest Groups (SIGs), providing valuable insights into the world of JD Edwards and the community surrounding it. Throughout the episode, Andrew, Chandra, and Paul candidly discuss overcoming challenges, leveraging humor to connect with others, and the necessity for BAs to constantly learn and adapt.

00:00 – Introduction to the Episode

05:56 – Andrew’s Quest Oracle Community Involvement and Leadership Role

10:39 – Learning Through Struggles, Sharing Openly, and Asking Questions

13:39 – Being Patient and Giving Yourself Some Grace

17:36 – The Overlap Between Recovering Accountants and BAs

21:19 – Midwesternism of the Day

Ep 9 – Interview with Andrew Ostdiek – Part 2: Funk Tech Rules the World Apr 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The JDE Connection, hosts Chandra and Paul continue their interview with Andrew Ostdiek, a seasoned business analyst and a tech enthusiast deeply involved in the JD Edwards community. Andrew underscores the significance of a methodical approach to utilizing JD Edwards resources, advocating for strategic searching, and leveraging community wisdom. Throughout the discussion, Andrew emphasizes how effective issue reporting hinges on clear, context-rich communication. He also details how understanding how to articulate problems and expected outcomes can significantly impact the efficiency of support requests. This episode reaffirms that proficiency requires an ongoing commitment to learning from both formal resources like Oracle support and informal networks within the ecosystem.

[00:00:08] - Introduction to the Episode

[00:02:06] - The Art of Oracle Support

[00:06:51] - Effective Communication in Support Requests

[00:10:01] - Preparing and Documenting Support Requests

[00:15:54] - Leveraging Past Successes

[00:19:06] – Improving My Oracle Support Searches

[00:22:13] - Navigating LearnJDE for Insights

[00:27:23] - The Iterative Process of Problem-Solving

[00:29:55] – Midwesternism of the Day

Ep 8 – Interview with Andrew Ostdiek – Part I: A Funk Tech Adventure Mar 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The JDE Connection podcast, hosts Chandra and Paul interview Andrew Ostdiek, a Senior Business Analyst with J.F. Shea Company and Vice President of the JD Edwards Tech SIG. Andrew shares his experience as a business analyst, discussing his day in the life responsibilities, the importance of being empowered by his organization to serve as a change agent, and the tools he values most in helping improve the user experience for his users. He emphasizes the need for empathy and active listening in understanding the impact of technology on end users. Throughout the episode, the hosts and guest share anecdotes and insights relevant to the JD Edwards community. Per usual, the episode educates listeners on a classic piece of Midwestern culture before promising a continuation of the discussion in the next installment where they plan to focus on resources and providing tips and tricks for success in the JD Edwards space.

00:00 Initiate Midwestern goodbye: a lengthy tradition of farewells.

06:21 Daily responsibilities including production support and projects.

09:06 Using new tools such as orchestrations to proactively enable change.

12:23 Attracting new talent to the business analyst role.

17:01 Andrew’s background as a “recovering” accountant.

19:21 Importance of proactive problem-solving and empathizing with users.

23:25 Creating an enterprise steering committee to educate decision makers.

26:08 Midwesternism of the day.

Ep 7 - Lingo Bingo Bonus Round Mar 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The JDE Connection, hosts Paul and Chandra engage in a second round of "Lingo Bingo," run through additional JD Edwards terms in hopes of covering everyone’s Bingo board. They discuss old school terms like knowledge garden, SPC code, and workflow, emphasizing their continued relevance and value. They don't stop there; the rapid-fire round continues with integration terms like REST, JSON, and SOAP, shedding light on the technical capabilities of JD Edwards. Along the way, the hosts touch on development terms such as the various design aids, table access management and shed light on their importance and impact, i.e. how not to let the chaos reign. Amidst the technical discussions, they share a playful Midwestern phrase and banter, adding a touch of humor to the episode.

00:48 Introduction to the Episode

01:22 The Basics

01:45 Old School

04:45 Tech Terms

08:01 Integrations

09:43 Midwesternism of the Day

Ep 6 - Linda Sloan-Compton: Part 3 Mar 11, 2024

Show notes

In episode 6 of the JDE Connection podcast, hosts Paul and Chandra conclude their 3-part series with Linda Sloan-Compton, a well-respected business analyst and leader in the JD Edwards community, diving deep into the complexities and nuances of capturing and sharing knowledge within the industry. With a mix of expertise and humor, they examine the attributes of a successful business analyst, discuss the top three tools to be successful and the importance of networking through platforms like Quest. The conversation also touches on the necessity of engaging new community members and the evolving landscape of training for analysts. The episode wraps up by acknowledging the constant need for professional development and urging listeners to continue exploring resources available in the JD Edwards ecosystem.

00:00 Thank you to Linda Sloan-Compton.

03:40 Large language models for data capture.

08:00 Challenges in learning JD Edwards.

12:30 Listening, comprehension, and empathy are crucial skills.

18:29 Top 3 tools to be successful in JD Edwards.

22:51 Importance of Quest and SIG’s.

28:48 Conference sessions need to cover both new and existing features.

31:17 Realizing knowledge, sharing valuable resources through networking.

Ep 5 - Linda Sloan-Compton: Part 2 Mar 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Chandra and Paul continue their conversation with guest Linda Sloan-Compton delving into the intricacies and challenges of finding and retaining talent, particularly in the business analyst space within JD Edwards. The conversation highlights the steep learning curve experienced by individuals transitioning from functional to technical roles and the difficulties of bridging the gap, emphasizing the need for unique skills and mindset to navigate this transition. They highlight the importance of knowledge sharing and community support in facilitating this transition. They then explore various avenues for sharing expertise within the JD Edwards community, including participation in user groups like SIG’s and attending conferences. The hosts also touch on the challenges faced by business analysts in understanding complex relationships and joins within JD Edwards, pointing to the need for practical support and guidance. Overall, the episode sheds light on the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and retention within JD Edwards and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in supporting the professional development of business analysts.

00:00 Connecting technical and functional skills.

04:32 Educate, connect, and empower JDE users.

07:49 Promoting knowledge sharing in the community.

10:48 Challenges of interpreting teamwork dynamics and communication.

13:34 Complicated government processes and communication challenges.

17:20 Consideration of third-party reporting tools for improvement.

23:07 Desire for Oracle support for different user roles.

26:29 Linda describes her exceptional memory.

28:33 Discuss bridging knowledge gaps and interest groups.

Ep 4 - Linda Sloan-Compton: Part 1 Feb 26, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of JDE Connection, hosts Chandra and Paul welcome Linda Sloan-Compton, leader of the JD Edwards Business Analyst Special Interest Group (SIG). Linda, who works for Pinal County in Arizona, shares her extensive experience of 27 years in the government entity and her transition from different roles within the organization. Linda reveals the challenges of bridging the gap between the functional and technical aspects of JD Edwards, emphasizing the importance of analysts having a deep understanding of data relationships and system functionalities. The conversation reflects on the key role business analysts serve in comprehending the system and translating data to developers, underscoring the critical need for analysts to be well-versed in system tables, aliases, and prefixes for effective communication with the technical team. Linda also sheds light on the complexities involved in troubleshooting reports and understanding the interwoven nature of tables and fields within the JD Edwards system.

00:00 Introduction Linda Sloan-Compton

05:53 Linda’s career path.

08:46 Knowledge garden explained.

11:40 Balancing technical and functional expertise in finance.

14:25 Understanding tables and relationships.

22:51 How field meanings change based on different attributes.

25:26 Midwesternism of the week!