Thomson Print & Packaging: Transforming IT for Efficient Production
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 17
Understanding the IT Challenges in Print and Packaging
Thomson Print & Packaging is a small to medium manufacturer that relies on a combination of production machinery, software, and a stable network to keep orders flowing through the factory. When they moved to their current site, the IT setup was chaotic. This mess caused significant problems on the shop floor.
Sales Director Barry Thomson had worked with several IT companies over the years. Some were helpful initially, but slow responses and a lack of ownership meant systems and machines could be down for a day or more. Barry wanted an IT partner who could respond quickly and understand the impact of a stalled machine on production.
The Challenge – IT That Interrupts Print Jobs
Print and packaging operations face unique IT challenges compared to typical office environments. Here are some key issues:
Networks serve both staff and print machinery, often built up over years.
IP clashes and awkward configurations can prevent devices and machines from communicating.
Old cabling and ad-hoc connections make faults difficult to trace.
Many IT providers treat the production floor as secondary to the office.
At Thomson Print & Packaging, network issues caused machines to stop communicating, leading to job pauses. Staff spent time troubleshooting instead of focusing on throughput and meeting customer deadlines.
Barry needed a partner who could:
Work confidently across both the office network and the print floor.
Respond quickly when production was at risk.
Own the problem from the first call through to resolution.
The Solution – Local IT Support That Understands Print And Packaging
Barry chose HeyIT as their managed IT provider to improve internal connections and support both the office and print floor.
The first step involved cleaning up the network. This allowed faults to be identified and fixed without guesswork. With Thomson Print & Packaging operating in both software and hardware, HeyIT focused on ensuring stable communication between machines, production systems, and office users.
Previously, when IP addresses conflicted, machines would stop communicating. They would remain idle until someone internally could resolve the issue. HeyIT took on this responsibility, quickly identifying and fixing conflicts so print jobs could continue.
Barry explains that the most significant change has been the assurance that when something breaks, it will be addressed promptly and not left unresolved.
Day-To-Day Impact On The Print Floor And Office
Barry highlights the difference in everyday support. He regards the HeyIT helpdesk as one of the best he has encountered during his time at Thomson Print & Packaging.
What stands out is:
Quick responses when machinery or systems fail.
Clear communication about when a fix will take time.
Consistent follow-through until the issue is fully resolved.
For a small to medium print and packaging business, this level of attention and clarity marks a significant improvement from the previous “we’ll get to you when we can” approach. It has become integral to how Thomson Print & Packaging operates both on the print floor and in the office.
Barry appreciates that HeyIT is transparent about technical details and proactive in preventing long-term problems. They don’t just step in when something is already broken. Working with a motivated, younger team has instilled confidence that every account matters, not just the largest contracts.
Results For A Print And Packaging Environment
Since partnering with HeyIT, Thomson Print & Packaging has experienced:
Reduced downtime for print machinery and core systems.
Faster identification and resolution of network and IP clashes.
Clear communication regarding incidents and planned changes.
A more predictable IT setup across both the office and print floor.
Barry describes the experience with HeyIT as a breath of fresh air. He encourages any business considering them as an IT consultant or supplier to proceed without hesitation.
The Importance of Proactive IT Management
In today's fast-paced production environment, proactive IT management is crucial. A well-functioning IT system ensures that machines operate smoothly, reducing the risk of costly downtimes. By addressing potential issues before they escalate, businesses can maintain productivity and meet customer demands effectively.
HeyIT understands the unique needs of print and packaging businesses. They offer tailored solutions that keep IT systems running efficiently. This proactive approach helps businesses focus on their core operations without the constant worry of IT interruptions.
If Your Print Floor Slows Down When Your IT Stumbles, It’s Time To Talk
If you run a print and packaging business or any operation with a production floor, you know that every minute a machine sits idle incurs costs. Old wiring, unclear diagrams, and slow support can quietly increase the likelihood of stoppages that could have been avoided.
HeyIT collaborates with print and packaging businesses and other production-focused companies to optimise their IT and networks. They ensure that machines, systems, and people can keep moving. From cleaning up cabling and resolving IP clashes to providing ongoing support and on-site visits, the focus is on maintaining a smooth workflow rather than constantly firefighting.
Book A Call About Your Print And Packaging IT
If your print floor or packaging line struggles with IT issues that slow everything down, book a call with HeyIT to discuss your needs.



