The coronavirus has greatly affected everyday life and for some companies completely halted the ability to continue operating as normal. Many companies have had to adapt to a more digital strategy. Technology is now making way for a new business normal. Companies have had to digitally transform the way they do business in order to stay afloat. The changes that would normally have been gradually released to a pilot group and then progressed through a phased approach have happened in a matter of weeks or even days.
Here are examples on how some industries are adapting to the covid outbreak:
Corporate – The ability for office workers to work remotely may come as no shock and for many companies it was already in the forefront. According to a survey by Workhuman, only a third of people in the United States worked for home before the pandemic. Many companies were still not fully prepared to allow for a remote workforce and have had to fast track a digital transformation.
Healthcare – Luckily healthcare had already started to adapt an online presence with e-visits and digital messaging. Virtual visits are giving patients the ability to communicate directly with their healthcare provider while being able avoid having to go into a physical clinic to be treated.
Education – This may be the biggest abrupt change. Teachers are now having to find ways to connect with their students through technology instead of in their classroom. Many are getting creative on ways to keep their students engaged through using social media. Students are able to connect one-on- one with their teachers through video chat, email and online tutorials. Luckily children are already well versed in the use of technology which allows them to adapt quickly to the change.
Virtual Events – Conferences, concerts and festivals have all been cancelled worldwide in response to the Covid-19 outbreak. Leading many to adapt with virtual events. These trillion dollar industries are trying to bridge the gap between in-person events and virtual ones. Using platforms that combine video, networking, and more to capture the benefits of networking at an in-person event. Example: Micro Focus Universe is offering their conference free of charge and available online only.
Zoos, Museums and Sports – As a parent this has been the most surprising and impressive adjustment. Many parents are scrambling to find ways to entertain their children through the confines of their home. These industries are stepping up to provide virtual zoo talks, virtual museum experiences and online lessons for kids to continue their sports regiments.
Retail – Minimizing exposure by reducing the amount of people that need to be out of their home has become an important part of reducing the spread. Some companies were already well on their way to developing creative ways for people to shop without entering the store. Online shopping has been present for years. But now many companies are taking it a step further with pick-up, curbside, and delivery for everyday essentials. This is making a huge impact on our ability to social distance during the crisis.
Food Industry – Companies like Instacart have boomed during the Covid outbreak by allowing people to “grocery shop” without leaving their homes. Local restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries are providing curb-side delivery to keep afloat. Many are missing the ability to engage with friends at a local hangout or coffee shop. Which is why being able to support your favorite bakery or restaurant by indulging in your favorites is providing some much needed comfort.
These industries are making amazing strides in adapting to their current environmental limitations. By providing safe alternatives for its customers they will be able to continue to serve and for some industries thrive during this difficult time.
