In the early two thousands, my time at Universal Labeling was an unforgettable chapter in my career. Working alongside my close friend, Tom, we took charge of technical support and operations, inheriting responsibilities from a long-time employee. Little did we know, this journey would involve transforming an entire company that had become heavily reliant on technology.
Universal Labeling specialized/specializes in designing and selling machines capable of applying labels to various surfaces. The onsite design department, equipped with six Microsoft computers running cracked versions of Cad, played a pivotal role. Despite the unconventional software situation, these employees were among the highest-paid in the company, maintaining a stoic demeanor until technology hiccups disrupted their workflow.
Tom and I understood the importance of ensuring that the design department had the necessary resources and a seamless working environment. Our mission was clear: eliminate frustrations and keep the machines running flawlessly. This was no small feat, considering the chaotic state of the company’s network.
Our predecessor had grappled with antiquated MS Access Databases and a tangled mess of cabling. Frustration was a constant companion for him, often manifesting in loud outbursts. However, Tom and I dove headfirst into the network challenges, determined to bring order to the chaos.
Amidst the technological overhaul, we faced a more significant challenge – resistance to change from employees who had been with the company for 5 to 20 years. Adapting to new products and manufacturing processes was met with staunch opposition. The prospect of change did not sit well with a workforce accustomed to the status quo.
To bridge this gap, one of our key initiatives was the implementation of an instant messaging system. The company had been relying on email and Exchange for communication, which, while effective, proved expensive for a company with a relatively small user base.
The introduction of the instant messaging system revolutionized communication within the company. It not only streamlined interactions but also provided a cost-effective alternative to the existing email infrastructure. Employees found it easier to collaborate, breaking down the communication barriers that had hindered progress.
As Tom and I navigated through the challenges, we witnessed a transformation in both technology and company culture. Our efforts to modernize operations and embrace change laid the foundation for a more efficient and dynamic Universal Labeling.
Looking back, our time at Universal Labeling serves as a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and adaptability in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology and business. The journey was not without its hurdles, but the positive impact on the company’s operations made it all worthwhile.