Coronavirus , now called Covid-19, is an acute respiratory virus that is sweeping the world. Resulting in countries all over the world to instate immediate quarantines. For many companies this means drastic changes to their business model. Luckily for many, especially those in the technology industry, work can continue with minor interruptions.
This is not the first time we have seen dangerously quick spreading viruses. When SARS first broke out in 2002, it took scientists more than a year to sequence the genome of the virus. This time around, the genome of Covid-19 was sequenced in less than a month after the first case was identified. But it’s not just medical science that has advanced enough to reduce an epidemic, technology is also playing a huge role.
INFORMATION– Companies such as Facebook, Twitter and Google are working to reduce the spread of inaccurate information and direct users to reliable sources such as the CDC and WHO for outbreak updates. With the availability of additional channels such as email, social media and SMS Alerts authorities are able to get information and updates to the community immediately.
TELEWORKING– Many companies were already fully prepared to offer their employees the ability to work remotely for the unforeseeable future. Helping to abide by the quarantine guidelines while still being able to maintain somewhat normal business operations. Employees can continue to work collaboratively through teleconferencing, online communication tools such as skype or slack, and of course email and phone.
HEALTHCARE – This is where the biggest leap has taken place. Our healthcare industry is more prepared than ever to offer remote care to millions of people through an array of tools. For example:
Artificial Intelligence Care – Health Apps with Chatbots are using artificial intelligence to screen people with fevers and coughs, and then advising them on next steps.
Virtual Visits – Many offices are encouraging those who are seeking non-emergent medical care to use e-clinics in order to reduce their exposure to the infected.
Anticipate – Metabiota, a health tech company, has been able to predict outbreaks and alert local agencies to better prepare. By helping to track and contain the spread of disease, these technologies may someday stop epidemics before they cross borders.
Advanced Technology – BioSticker, measures an individual’s temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate and cough and transmits medical updates every 10 minutes.
PROACTIVE
- 3Mhas responded to the outbreak by increasing production of technologically advanced face masks.
- Online learning companies are offering free online resources to help keep kids business while out of school.
- The movie industry is responding to the shutdown of movie theaters by planning to offer at home movie rentals in lieu of theater releases.
- Zoos and museums are finding ways to engage with guests through FaceBook zookeeper talks or virtual tours.
DRONES
We are finding new ways to use drones to provide medical care and more importantly to keep our medical staff safe. We are using drones now to:
- Reach remote or quarantined locations to provide them with medical supplies.
- To provide quicker response times in crowded urban areas
- Robots are being used to disinfect rooms, communicate with isolated people, take vital information, and deliver medications
Excel SoftSources, as a near-shore outsourcing technology company, has the capability to seamlessly transfer to a fully remote working environment. Our staff is already trained and experienced in digital communication, remote collaboration and has the tools needed to continue to operate during this difficult time. Learn more now.
