Almost all aspects of life around the world have been brought to a halt by the spread of the Covid19 pandemic. But it has taught us some new ways of fighting and managing the situations arising out of its outbreak. What are the most useful technologies during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Indeed, technology can’t prevent the outbreak of pandemics. However, technology can help us in managing the spread, educate, warn, and empower. During the lockdown period, there are a few technologies which found to be extremely useful to keep things going. Let us discuss:
Cyber Security
When most of the businesses and IT industries, except manufacturing industries have opted for Work from Home (WFH), cybersecurity becomes of utmost importance in tackling pandemic fall out related issues.
Cloud Computing
- When lockdown and WFH have become the order of the day, several cloud-based tools, including cloud-collaboration software like Zoom, Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet turned out to be highly useful.
Automation Technology
- Automation technology has helped almost 75% of firms to survive to start from factory robots to robotic process automation (RPA) software. There are other technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality, and blockchain which have proved to be beneficial for businesses.
Online Shopping and Robot Deliveries
- Covid19 outbreak has transformed online shopping and made it a must-have around the world. Online shopping having drastically transformed and has been supported by a robust logistics system. As In-person delivery is not virus-proof, many delivery companies and restaurants in the US and China have launched the contactless delivery services. Chinese e-commerce giants have taken the help of robot deliveries.
Telemedicine or Telehealth
- Telemedicine refers to the practice of caring for patients remotely. For example, the doctors can consult patients by using the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) compliant video-conferencing tools. Telehealth is an effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 simultaneously providing essential primary care. Wearable personal IoT devices can track vital signs and chatbots can do initial diagnoses based on symptoms seen in patients.
Online or Distance learning
- More and more students whether in schools and colleges are opting for online platforms. The Learning Management System (LMS), being part of the e-learning format is another way of learning and teaching. Then, there is greater demand for the use of Educational Apps and Mobile apps are highest.
Supply Chain
- The COVID-19 pandemic has created large-scale disruptions to the global supply chain. The demands for essential commodities like food, medicine, and personal protective equipment have soared. The core technologies such as Big Data, cloud computing, Internet-of-Things (“IoT”), and blockchain have helped to streamline the resilient supply chain management system, in terms of enhancing the accuracy of data and encouraging data sharing.
Conclusion
When the second wave of COVID-19 is looming, a large chunk of employees is still reluctant to return to offices and factories, most useful technologies during Covid19 such as cybersecurity, 5G, AI, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things will continue to play a critical role until COVID19 effect gets completely wiped out.
