Here are 10 technology trends that can help build a resilient society in relation to how we do business, how we work and trade, how we produce goods, how we learn, how we seek medical services, and how we entertain ourselves. Full Story by WeForum.org
Over the years, technology has changed the way we live and interact with one another. And during the COVID-19 pandemic, we relied so much on technology. It has kept our society functional amid lockdowns and community quarantines.
Pandemic is still here and technology continues to play a crucial role in our everyday lives. It helps consumers and businesses survive now and beyond the pandemic.
1. Online Shopping and Robot Deliveries
To prevent the spread of the virus by in-person delivery, companies and restaurants in US and China launched contactless delivery services through robots.
2. Digital and Contactless Payments
The recommended safe payment method now is contactless digital payments. This is done either through cards or e-wallets. However, the availability of digital payments also relies heavily on Internet availability. It is also necessary to have appropriate devices and a network that can convert cash into a digitized format.
3. Remote Work
Working remotely is enabled by technologies like virtual private networks (VPNs), voice over Internet protocols (VOIPs), virtual meetings, cloud technology, work collaboration tools, and even facial recognition technologies. It also saves a ton of time in commute and it provides more flexibility for workers aside from the prevention of virus-spread.
4. Distance Learning
Many education institutions started offering online learning. Technology trends involved in distant learning are similar to those for remote work. Educators also use other technologies including virtual reality, augmented reality, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence-enabled robot teachers.
5. Telehealth
To provide essential primary care, health professionals now provide virtual medical care through Telehealth. For instance, they now use Chatbots to make initial diagnoses based on symptoms identified by patients.
6. Online Entertainment
Cloud raves and online streaming of concerts have gained traction around the world. Museums and international heritage sites offer virtual tours.
7. Supply Chain 4.0
The heavy reliance on paper-based records, a lack of visibility on data and lack of visibility on data and lack of diversity and flexibility have made existing supply chain vulnerable to any pandemic. Core Technologies such as Big Data, cloud computing, Internet-of-Thinks (“IoT”) and blockchain are building a more resilient supply chain management system for the future by enhancing data accuracy and encouraging sharing of data.
8. 3D Printing
3D printing offers flexibility in production, and decreases the lengthy procurement processes and long shipment wait time as the same printer can produce various products based on different design files and materials.
9. Robotics and Drones
COVID-19 provided a strong push to rollout the usage of robots and research on robotics. In recent weeks, robots have been used to disinfect areas and to deliver food for those in quarantine.
10. 5G and Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
All the technology trends above rely heavily on a stable, high-speed, and affordable Internet. This means that we need to ensure inclusive access to the Internet. The 5G network continues to expand globally especially in Europe where its rollout is delayed.
Building the necessary infrastructure to support a digitized world and stay current in the latest technology will be essential for any business or country to remain competitive in a post-COVID-19 world.
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