Today's podcast episode dives into the dynamic world of the OneStream Splash conference, the annual watershed event for OneStream customers and prospects. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Las Vegas from May 20-23, this episode offers "7 Tips to Maximize Your Splash, at Splash," ensuring you ride the wave of opportunities during the event. Whether you're a seasoned OneStream customer or a prospective user, you'll learn how to navigate the event effectively—from crafting a personalized agenda to strategic networking and exploring innovations for today’s Office of Finance leaders. Tune in to transform your conference experience into a pivotal professional development opportunity, all while enjoying the energy that only OneStream's premier Splash event can offer. 

In this episode, Andy Smetana discusses the importance of change management in OneStream projects with Susan Maron. Susan emphasizes the need for change management to start from day one and continue throughout the project. She highlights that neglecting change management can lead to hasty decisions, lack of user trust, and inefficiencies. It's crucial to involve experts and consider written support, whether the project is in-person or remote, to ensure a smooth transition and avoid surprises.

Susan Maron is the Chief of Staff for Nova Advisory, which is our fancy way of saying she supports team culture and operations.  Some days, Susan works with our team members on new thinking and processes and some days she works with our CEO, Nate Coate, on Nova's strategic roadmap.  Susan's expertise and leadership in Change Management across our largest clients are instrumental in the details for today's Podcast.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 09:22] Defining Organizational Management

Nova Advisory's focus is on organizational change management, especially in training and communication.

It is crucial to align terminology and grasp change management's broad impact.

Vital for tackling anticipated change management challenges.

[09:23 - 12:46] Challenges in Change Management and Client Involvement

All projects, including OneStream implementations, face expected surprises.

Common problems include time-consuming data reconciliation and unexpected discrepancies.

Only underestimating time leads to complete stakeholder involvement and overlooked aspects.

[12:47 - 21:56] Client's Role and Considerations in Change Management

Clients must evaluate their resources and time for internal change management.

Limited expertise risks suboptimal outcomes when handling change internally.

Effective change management starts from day one and continues throughout all phases.

[21:57 - 27:39] Closing Segment

The critical role of written support in both in-person and remote settings.

In-person collaboration is vital for key milestones like project kickoff and user acceptance testing.

Successful remote project implementations during COVID-19 highlight remote work advantages.

The simplicity and effectiveness of clear communication and planning in change management.

If you liked this episode of the show, CPM Customer Success, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Get in touch with Andy:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-smetana/

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“Sometimes it's not about having the right people. It's about those people having the right time.” - Susan Maron

“The point is to stay, to anticipate what those challenges are gonna be, and to stay way ahead of those changes with frequent communication to the whole group.” - Susan Maron

“For our most successful clients, Change management should occur from day one through go live, as a good differentiator for success.” - Susan Maron

“Change management doesn't, it's not rocket science. It doesn't take one. So the most successful clients have the simplest communications, the willingness. What makes organizational change management successful for a OneStream project is that willingness and the time to plan ahead.” - Susan Maron 

This is a continuation of last week’s episode 007 for Manufacturing Finance leaders exploring OneStream’s capabilities. This week’s episode 008 shifts focus to a discussion of OneStream's capabilities for Manufacturing Finance organizations, as OneStream’s Dave Collins, Director of Solutions Consulting and Global Alliances at OneStream, deep dives into achievable benefits of any Manufacturing organization faced with disparate systems and processes exacerbated by Supply Chain disruptions and rising global prices. The need for more impactful Manufacturing Finance professionals is evident, and OneStream offers solutions via its unified intelligent finance platform.

Dive into the world of advanced manufacturing finance in this episode where a panel of Manufacturing Finance leaders explores how OneStream’s unified platform provides insights into customer and product profitability that are not provided by point solutions.

Learn from multiple-time OneStream customer, Chad Pisha, CAO of IPS Corporation, as he shares insights and practical strategies to harness the full potential of OneStream for detailed financial analysis and decision-making. Greg Hertling, Nova Advisory Partner, also joins to discuss how top manufacturers are leveraging OneStream's capabilities to gain a competitive edge in a world filled with Supply Chain challenges, by modeling forecast scenarios.

Join us to transform your Manufacturing financial operations into a powerhouse of efficiency and precision.

In this episode, Andy introduces OneStream's unified financial operations platform, discussing its unique capabilities such as Extensible Dimensionality, data quality, analytic services, and the Solution Exchange. Highlighting customer success stories and the benefits of integrating operational and financial data, Andy emphasizes how OneStream simplifies corporate performance management. Listen for insights on enhancing financial processes and strategic planning.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 06:51] Introduction to the OneStream Revolution

OneStream's mission is to enhance corporate financial management.

The role of Nova Advisory as an exclusive OneStream integration partner.

[06:52 - 14:12] The Distinctive Edge of OneStream

Comprehensive financial management on a single platform.

The disruption OneStream introduces in the corporate performance management (CPM) space.

Key functionalities within OneStream: data quality engines, consolidation tools, and security models.

[14:13 - 22:30] Pioneering Features of OneStream Explored

The concept of Extensible Dimensionality for adaptable financial reporting.

Ensuring data integrity through OneStream's data quality and analytic services.

How the Solution Exchange mirrors an app store, enriching OneStream's ecosystem.

[22:31 - 28:52] Customer Success and Efficiency Gains

Detailed examples of efficiency improvements and successes from existing OneStream users.

The impact of financial signaling on proactive decision-making and operational analytics.

How OneStream's platform supports a wide array of financial processes in a unified manner.

[28:53 - 31:48] Closing Segment

Enhances decision-making with advanced reporting and real-time analytics.

Supports strategic planning and forecasting to navigate market changes effectively.

Ensures accurate financial reporting, meeting global regulatory standards.

The Solution Exchange offers a variety of solutions for business customization and growth.

If you liked this episode of the show, CPM Customer Success, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Get in touch with Andy:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-smetana/

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“One of the reasons customers choose OneStream is that OneStream eliminates fragmented systems and the nightmare that evolved in their past.” - Andy Smetana

“OneStream's philosophy when it comes to working with data is to let the data live where it best belongs.” - Andy Smetana

“Extensible Dimensionality is the technical enabler that allows OneStream to support and enforce corporate standards and controls.” - Andy Smetana

In this episode, Andy dives into financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with Nova Advisory Partner Greg Hertling, focusing on using OneStream for forecasting the future. Greg shares insights on FP&A's pivotal role, data integration, and process efficiency within OneStream, addressing real client challenges and enhancing forecasting accuracy.

 Greg Hertling, Nova Advisory Partner, brings over 20 years of experience in Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A). With expertise in OneStream, he excels in data integrations, workflow design, analytics, and planning modules. Greg is dedicated to delivering seamless FP&A solutions and ensuring client success.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 09:04] Career Background and Introduction to OneStream Solutions

Greg’s career transition from industry (accounting and financial planning) to consulting.

Experience in finance transformation and use of CPM tools.

Transition to OneStream practice after being impressed at a conference.

Overview of OneStream's capabilities in FP&A, including data presentation and analysis.

[09:05 - 16:49] Overview of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) in OneStream

FP&A's role in data production and presentation.

OneStream's dimensionality and extensibility for tailored business models.

Importance of actionable data presentation for decision-making.

Ability to drill down into details and customize planning processes.

[16:50 - 27:34] Enhancing Forecasting Accuracy and Dealing with Client Challenges

Processes and checks in OneStream ensuring data integrity and visibility.

Use of workflows for repeatable and efficient processes.

Example of addressing a complex client challenge with OneStream's flexibility.

Integration of financial data from various sources into the OneStream platform.

[27:35 - 33:51] Closing Segment

Success factors include scalability, error reduction, and streamlined processes.

Importance of centralized data storage and reporting in OneStream.

Encouraging adoption by showcasing ease of use and benefits over spreadsheets.

If you liked this episode of the show, CPM Customer Success, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Get in touch with Andy:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-smetana/

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“FP&A's job is to translate those activities into financials.” - Greg Hertling

 “Strategy is all about kind of looking ahead to future desired outcomes. And then reasoning back to create a plan or set of actions to achieve those outcomes. In my mind, FP&A is or should be at the heart of that process.”  - Greg Hertling

 “OneStream's ability to generate reports, graphs, and dashboards, gives FP&A the tools to present data in a way that drives decisions.” - Greg Hertling 

In this episode, Andy welcomes Dave Collins to discuss the complex landscape of CPM software. They dive into Dave's extensive background, from his early days at ComShare to his pivotal role at OneStream, highlighting the evolution of CPM solutions. The conversation covers the challenges businesses face with traditional ERP systems and modular solutions, emphasizing the benefits of OneStream's unified platform approach. Dave shares valuable insights on avoiding common pitfalls when selecting and implementing CPM software, making this a must-listen for finance professionals navigating the CPM software landscape.

Dave Collins, Director of Solutions Consulting & Strategic Alliances at OneStream Software. With over twenty-five years of experience from consulting to education to product management, Dave has a proven track record as a trusted advisor in Analytics and Performance Management. He has designed B/C/EPM solution architectures for organizations, traversing a wide range of industries, and is a published author on multi-dimensional analysis and performance management modeling.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 06:09] Dave Collins: CPM Thought Leader Insight

Dave Collins highlights his extensive journey from ComShare to OneStream.

Discusses the evolution of CPM solutions and their impact on finance and operations.

Reflects on the importance of addressing organizational challenges with integrated CPM platforms.

Share insights on transitioning from traditional methods to modern, unified CPM systems.

[06:10 - 17:10] OneStream's Technology and Platform

Integrates industry experiences with Microsoft Azure for a comprehensive platform.

Avoid modular complexity, enabling seamless on-premises and SaaS deployments.

Provides unified data model, integrated workflows, and advanced calculations.

Supports expansive data handling with flexible, user-based licensing.

[17:11 - 28:18] The Value Edge with OneStream

OneStream addresses complexities arising from multiple ERPs within organizations.

Offers a unified solution reducing integration efforts and technical debt compared to ERP modules.

Provides flexible, cost-effective access to a wide range of financial processes under a single licensing model.

Enables tailored implementation prioritizing immediate business needs, enhancing efficiency and collaboration.

[28:19 - 37:53] OneStream Implementation Strategy

A unified data model simplifies planning and reporting.

Flexible deployment aligns with organizational needs.

Built-in financial intelligence reduces custom rules.

Analytic services offer daily insights for strategic decisions.

[37:54 - 42:21] Closing Segment

Importance of consensus in project planning.

Value of consulting partners' expertise.

Advocacy for flexible project management and communication.

If you liked this episode of the show, CPM Customer Success, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Get in touch with Andy:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-smetana/

Get in touch with Dave:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yepitsdave/

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“The biggest pitfall is coming to consensus on what it is you want to do…when I was in consulting, as soon as we come to consensus on the plan. And what the priorities are, I can tell you how long it's going to take to do something.” - Dave Collins

“I would say as a pitfall is, not leveraging, not acknowledging that the partner you've chosen.” - Dave Collins

“I would say as a pitfall is, not Leveraging, not acknowledging that you all are really good at what you do and can help them make a good informed decision based upon your experience.” - Dave Collins

In this episode, Andy dives into the transformative power of OneStream in addressing three critical challenges faced by the Office of Finance: the inefficiency of managing multiple-point solutions, the burden of technical debt, and the need for flexibility in financial reporting. Through expert insights, Andy illuminates how OneStream's unified platform not only streamlines financial operations but also significantly reduces the total cost of ownership and enhances business adaptability with its innovative approach to corporate performance management.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 03:21] Complexity in Financial Operations: Addressing Challenges

CPM solutions are faced with evolving challenges.

Importance of addressing these challenges for efficient financial operations.

Overview of three key challenges: multiple-point solutions, technical debt, and inflexible systems.

[03:22 - 09:20] Unified Financial Solutions

Prevalence of disparate systems leading to inefficiency.

Difficulty in integrating and consolidating data across platforms.

OneStream's unified platform approach to solve integration issues.

[09:21 - 13:10] Technical Debt: OneStream's Maintenance Solutions

Accumulation of outdated or costly-to-maintain systems.

Dependency on key personnel for system management.

OneStream's financial intelligence reduces maintenance costs and simplifies data management.

[13:11 - 19:38] Flexibility in Systems: OneStream's Adaptive Dimensionality

Legacy systems hinder adaptability to business changes.

Customized solutions create barriers to system evolution.

OneStream's extensible dimensionality offers flexibility and operational relevance across different business units.

[19:38 - 20:56] Closing Segment

Summary of the three main challenges and OneStream's solutions.

Emphasis on the benefits of a unified CPM platform.

Encouragement for exploring OneStream to address financial system challenges.

If you liked this episode of the show, CPM Customer Success, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Get in touch with Andy:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-smetana/

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“OneStream is really one financial stream. It's a platform, and it's the first and only platform built solely for finance.”  - Andy Smetana

“OneStream can read data from across the business landscape, it can enrich it, it can summarize or aggregate data, consolidate data, can roll it up by different views of a business, whether that be by region or country, or product lines.”  - Andy Smetana

“OneStream is designed to solve for those inflexible system problems. And it does that in one primary way through a proprietary term called extensible dimensionality.” - Andy Smetana

In this episode, Andy Smetana and Nate Coate discuss the evolution of performance management tools, shifting from on-premise to subscription-based solutions. They highlight the impact of larger, more versatile tools and the significance of remote teams in a post-COVID world. Nate shares insights on the benefits of OneStream and offers advice to those considering their performance management journey.

 Nate Coate, CEO of Nova Advisory. Nate is a founder of multiple companies serving the Office of Finance executives in solving their most pressing challenges with improved financial processes and the market-leading Corporate Performance Management (CPM) software platform, OneStream. With a unique perspective having seen the Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) software market evolve over a 25-year career, Nate can guide clients to solutions resulting in improved financial performance, while removing complexity and risk from their business.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 06:11] From Finance to EPM Expert: Nate Coate's Journey

Nate’s career journey in Enterprise Performance Management (EPM).

He starts as a financial analyst at CCC Information Services.

Transition to using S Base and eventually specializing in Hyperion/Oracle EPM.

Founding Key Performance Ideas and selling them to Excel Alpha.

[06:12 - 11:56] Pioneering OneStream: Nate’s Strategic Pivot

Nate's decision to pivot to OneStream after selling his company.

OneStream gaining market share and strong community support.

The advantages of OneStream in scalability and flexibility.

The transition from point solutions to an enterprise platform.

[11:57 - 16:41] Navigating OneStream Success: Customer's Guide

Articulating clear goals for the implementation.

Ensuring organizational buy-in and involvement.

Emphasizing a phased approach instead of trying to do everything on day one.

The importance of a strong executive sponsor on both sides.

[16:42 - 18:52] Closing Segment

The importance of post-implementation support and ongoing care.

Options for supporting OneStream applications: in-house, outsourcing, or hybrid.

The shift in support dynamics with the move to Software as a Service (SaaS).

The benefits of remote and dispersed teams, especially in a post-COVID world.

If you liked this episode of the show, CPM Customer Success, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Get in touch with Andy:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-smetana/

Get in touch with Nate:

Website: www.NovaAdvisory.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-coate-7a35491/

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“The solutions are more enterprise platforms. So it's a starting point or a launching pad into a more of a business-wide solution.” - Nate Coate

“If you have customers that aren't happy either with the software or with their implementation partner, I don't think you're going to last very long in space. And so, you know, from my perspective that has to be kind of the cornerstone of everything we try to do.” - Nate Coate

“I had seen this shift in the marketplace where OneStream was starting to really take away market share.” - Nate Coate

In this episode, Andy Smetana shares insights on using OneStream for financial process enhancement, drawing from his extensive experience in ERP systems and financial management. Featuring case studies and interviews with successful OneStream users, the podcast focuses on improving financial operations for organizational growth. It highlights the importance of building a OneStream community and underscores the platform's role in driving continuous success in finance operations.

Andy Smetana, Chief Revenue Officer at Nova Advisory, is responsible for Nova Advisory’s revenue operations including brand positioning, marketing & alliances, and sales activities. A consulting veteran with 25+ years of hands-on experience in EPM/CPM, ERP, and Finance and Enterprise Performance Management (FPM), Andy has worked closely with countless clients across all major industry categories. Andy believes providing value comes first in any relationship and loves podcasts as a self-service way to learn, grow, and deliver more to the world.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 05:12] CPM Customer Success Podcast Overview

Dedicated to helping finance executives achieve success with OneStream.

Targets finance professionals at all levels, from CFOs to operational finance managers.

Focuses on improving financial processes like planning, forecasting, and reporting.

Aims to transition from legacy systems to more efficient, integrated financial solutions.

[05:13 - 09:44] Andy’s Background and Transition to OneStream

Career consultant specializing in finance and accounting.

Started with ERP systems, then shifted focus to financial management and reporting.

Transitioned to management consulting for deeper impact in finance operations.

Discovered OneStream as a comprehensive solution for finance professionals.

[09:45 - 15:35] Content and Goals of the Podcast

Focus on practical information and case studies about OneStream.

Features interviews with finance professionals who have successfully used OneStream.

Offers diverse content formats, including expert insights and discussions about the software.

Plans to build a community of finance and accounting professionals interested in OneStream.

[15:35 - 17:59] Closing Segment

Aims to grow a community with regular calls, sharing challenges, and discussing solutions.

Encourages companies to adopt OneStream for improved business results.

Emphasizes that OneStream implementation is a journey, not an overnight success.

OneStream's expanding capabilities can lead to continuous organizational improvement.

If you liked this episode of the show, CPM Customer Success, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

Get in touch with Andy:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-smetana/

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“Our goal is really to equip the office of CFO leaders with the OneStream-related information they need so they can make an informed decision if they're considering OneStream about that decision.”  - Andy Smetana

“OneStream is a sophisticated platform with built-in financial intelligence. So our goal is to help move away from those custom, error-prone, potentially inaccurate and costly to maintain applications and spreadsheets.” - Andy Smetana

“OneStream enables new business processes and capabilities, and our goal is to help you make the most out of your investment and get the most value out of the platform.” - Andy Smetana