Every dark cloud has silver linings. But if we go deeper and introspect the dark cloud of Covid-19 has many silver linings. Though some may find this ironic. As it has devastated millions of human lives and shattered the world economy which no one has ever imagined.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated major technology trends, including digital payments, telehealth, and robotics.
- These technologies help reduce the spread of the containment of Coronavirus.
- Technology can make society more resilient in the face of pandemics and other threats.
During the COVID-19 pandemic this includes digital payments, telehealth & robotics are among the top services. In India, we have witnessed and gone through a transformational phase- digital revolution post DEMONETIZATION. This time will be one more addition to that. Today when everything seems to be working in a way that reflects the pandemic nature of technology.
Digital & Contactless Payments
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Rise of Contactless Transactions
When zero contact and no physical touch became prevalent,.The urge to purchase online products has exponentially risen around the world. It’ll continue to render happy hours through online orders & delivery.
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Global Examples and Reforms
In China, late 2002 SARS led to tremendous growth of B2B and B2C online marketplace platforms. Robot deliveries in the coming years will need protocols for ensuring sanitized delivery. Central banks in China, US, and South Korea implemented measures to sanitize banknotes, facilitating cashless transactions globally.
Remote Work Culture
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WFH Adoption
Companies worldwide are harnessing the benefits of work-from-home (WFH) using VPNs, VoIP, virtual meetings, and cloud technology.
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Challenges
Employees may feel lonely and experience a lack of work-life balance, highlighting challenges even as remote work becomes more prevalent post-pandemic.
Distance Learning Methodology
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Rapid Adoption
Education adapted to online platforms to ensure continuity during quarantine, even for young children.
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Technology in Learning
Using augmented reality, 3D printing, and AI-enabled robot teachers became essential. Parents faced economic pressure while managing productivity at home.
Telehealth Counselling
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Online Consultations
As in-person visits carried infection risk, consulting doctors online became a viable solution for diagnosis and treatment guidance.
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Technology Integration
Wearables and personal IoT devices play a role in primary care. Chatbots assist in initial diagnostics based on patient input, making telehealth accessible to everyone.
Online Entertainment
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Virtual Experiences
Quarantine measures reduced in-person interaction, boosting online creativity. Streaming concerts and virtual tours surged globally.
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Industry Impact
Industries offering virtual experiences, including entertainment and tourism, saw significant growth.
Robotics & Drones
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Automation in Businesses
Retail, food, manufacturing, and logistics were heavily impacted. Robotics helped disinfect areas, deliver food, and perform labor-intensive tasks.
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Drone Usage
Reports predict manufacturing jobs may be replaced by robots, but new jobs will be created, with training and social welfare provided to the workforce.
Supply Chain 4.0
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Pandemic Disruptions
The COVID-19 pandemic is creating disruptions to the global supply chain. Everything is affected by its distancing or quarantine orders, some factories are completely shut down.
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Technology Solutions
Cloud computing, Big Data, IoT, and blockchain are building resilient supply chain systems, enhancing accuracy, data sharing, and adaptability.
