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.