Every industry has its problem-solvers, and in enterprise software, where technology is always evolving, they’re worth their weight in gold. Ludovic De Paz, a seasoned expert in financial software, shares his journey on the Black Diamond Advisory Podcast—and trust us, it’s more thrilling than your typical software tutorial.

From SQL to OneStream: A Journey of Adaptation

Ludovic’s career didn’t follow a straight line—more like a zigzag of pivots, learning opportunities, and strategic decisions. Starting with SQL Server and Hyperion, he moved to the U.S. in 2008. Over time, he honed his skills in enterprise performance management (EPM) and eventually joined OneStream in its early days, when best practices were still being written—literally on napkins, probably. Today, he balances customer-facing projects and internal initiatives as he watches OneStream transform from a startup into a global financial software giant.

Collaboration: The Secret to Smarter Solutions

One major evolution Ludovic highlights is the rise of collaboration between teams, especially services and product development. Back in the day, implementing OneStream was a bit like baking a cake without a recipe—lots of trial, error, and frosting. Today, thanks to solid best practices and strong feedback loops, teams work more efficiently to solve problems and make sure customers get the most out of the platform.

The AI Conversation: Hype or Real Value?

Of course, no tech discussion is complete without a nod to AI. Ludovic is excited about how AI is already transforming enterprise software—especially in data analysis and automation. He even tested the AI-powered OneStream assistant, which nailed complex product-related questions in both English and French. It’s like ChatGPT, but with more spreadsheets. Ludovic’s take? AI is a game-changer, but it won’t be taking over his job anytime soon. After all, “AI can generate insights, but it won’t replace human problem-solving—at least, not before I retire.”

A Few Surprises: The Man Behind the Expertise

Ludovic also reveals a surprising side: his love for motorcycles. His ride of choice? A loud, small-but-mighty Honda Grom 125, which helps him cut through Miami’s infamous traffic. When he’s not solving software problems, he’s making sure drivers hear him coming—a little louder than usual. As he says, “Loud pipes save lives!”

Final Thoughts: Problem-Solving as a Mindset

Ludovic’s journey is a reminder that problem-solving isn’t just about tech; it’s about adaptability, teamwork, and never stopping the learning process—whether you’re navigating enterprise software, AI, or the wild streets of Miami.