During the COVID-19 pandemic, technology has kept us connected and enabled us to work remotely. But what role will technology play after COVID-19?
Contactless Technology
Contactless technologies can help us reduce disease transmission by allowing us to interact with our workspaces, hands-free. Voice and facial recognition, as well as motion sensors, will help us open doors, sanitize our workspaces, log into our computers, and keep our hands clean while we navigate public spaces.
Many businesses, from Whole Foods to Postmates, now offer contactless delivey. And it’s likely that these services will continue after COVID-19. So, while at work, we’ll still be able to specify how we’d like to receive our deliveries. Instead of leaving the office to grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat, we’ll likely use our smartphones to order deliveries straight to our desks. And after COVID-19, we’ll probably use less cash than before and make more online payments.
Distance Tracking
After COVID-19, our mobile phones may alert us when we’ve broken social distancing rules. Some companies have installed data-collecting technology in their offices to track employees movements. This data comes from the employees’ mobile phones. And it is used to alert employees in close proximity to other employees to stay six-feet apart.
Virtual Reality
Video conferencing and instant messaging has helped us communicate and collaborate with our colleagues during COVID-19. But after COVID-19, we may see unprecedented developments in virtual reality (VR) programs. These programs will change the way work creatively and collaboratively, outside the office. They can also help support the mental health of remote workers by helping them to feel more connected with their coworkers.
5G-Scale Internet
At first, workers encountered many obstactles when they were told they had to immediately start working from home. From dogs barking in the background to connectivity issues, the home office seemed, for many people, to be an unproductive work environment. But after making some adjustments and setting up the proper tools, a fair amount of us found a way to make our homes successful work environments.
After COVID-19, many workers may still be encouraged to stay home until open office layouts are redesigned. Because workplaces with open offices may struggle to find a way to allow all of their workers to safely work together in the office.
But some workplaces may prefer their employees work from home, if they can. Because it saves employees and employers time and money. So, it is possible that not all of us will return to work in the office when it is over. And with more people than ever working remotely, we may soon require a 5G-scale internet upgrade.
