Technological Developments In The Times Of COVID-19

COVID-19 is undoubtedly, among other things, testing societies resilience and strength. It is going to be a long journey for the world to be back to how it used to be. Governments are being urged to put in place effective digital technologies along with lockdowns and other social distancing measures. Let’s have a look at some of the technological changes that have taken place around the world since:

Robotics

This pandemic has indeed made us realise how heavily we depend on human interactions for business and leisure. Mainly labour incentive businesses such as food businesses, logistics, retail are hit the worst.

To help with this issue, robots have been used to deliver food, disinfect areas to those in quarantine in some countries while drones have walked dogs and delivered items to households.

Policies have to be in place to provide training for relevant skills to the labour force to transition accordingly and accept the change.

Online Learning

In the last few months, about 1.57 billion students have been offered courses online due to quarantine. Some technologies such as virtual reality, 3D printing and AI enabled robot teachers have also been put in place for distance learning. Digital learning may also possibly result in a wider divide in income levels by the new and upcoming technologies like VR and AR technologies taking over the education industry.

However, for the working professionals, many concerns are also being raised on distance learning exerting economic pressure on parents, especially women, who need to take care of their children at home and may be less productive at work possibly resulting in lay off or resignation.

Digital Payment Methods

Contactless payment methods are being implemented in the form of e-wallet or cards to avoid cash interaction. According to sources, however, there are about 1.7 billion people who may not be able to access digital payments as the availability relies on internet, a network and particular devices for cash to be converted into a digital format.

Remote Entertainment & Online Deliveries

As the quarantine continues, people have brought their entertainment businesses online. Museums and many heritage sites are offering virtual tours while concerts are being streamed online around the world. To no one’s surprise, online gaming traffic has in fact dramatically increased since the pandemic along with online shopping. COVID-19 has transformed the online shopping experience to a must-have instead of a nice-to-have worldwide.

Delivery companies and many restaurants are now instructed to have contactless delivery where they drop off goods at a designated location instead of an in-person delivery option. China is amidst developing robot deliveries, however, before they introduce this new design, delivery companies have to maintain the sanitary condition of the parcels being delivered.

Remote Work

Remote working is shaping a new world of work. With everyone working from home during this testing time, it is important to collaborate and communicate as efficiently as possible. There are several challenges that come with remote working such as information security with video conferencing platforms, employees may experience isolation and lack of balance in work life.

Adapting to this new norm is definitely challenging, however, connecting with your employees and having healthy conversations with your team will help increase an individuals productivity and instil a sense of belonging.