Software leaves its mark at Sterling Print : System helps to manage 18 shift patterns across 24‐hour, seven‐day working week

Purpose – Describes new software that helps UK media company Sterling Print to manage its 18 shift patterns across the 24‐hour, seven‐day working week. Design/methodology/approach – Draws on information supplied by the Sterling Print finance director and the UK general manager of the software provider. Findings – Shows that the new system has helped Sterling Print to set up unusual shift patterns for individuals, and keep the payroll, holiday and sickness records accurate. It makes HR administration much easier, especially if the company needs historic data for analysis or disciplinary reasons. Practical implications – Describes a way of coping with tasks that increasing numbers of companies will have to master as they move from a traditional, nine‐to‐five operation to more flexible patterns of work. Originality/value – Highlights the value of modern software for an expanding company with complex HR‐management tasks to perform.