Technology in lockdown and beyond

As we try to embrace our second lockdown, I urge everyone to stay in touch with loved ones as much as possible and keep visible and “networked” in business.

Albeit a slightly different animal this time around, the lockdown has the capacity to impact on our well being and mental health. Sadly, this was the case for some earlier this year with lockdown #1.

Thankfully (for now) schools remain open although last week (for us) was distant online learning. I have witnessed teachers tutoring effectively online with lively and encouraging student banter in chat on Teams. I had my first online parents evening last week! It was direct, effective, and more private than the assembly hall.

I have long been a fan of WhatsApp video and have found it an effective and essential tool for both business contact as well as keeping in touch with relatives far and wide. Zoom has become the “norm” and killing time in the waiting room now has a whole new meaning!

I am an advocate for “real” business meetings and would probably be characterised as old school. However, there is no doubt these technologies improve time management, bridge oceans effectively, and remove costly “people movement” with all the associated stress, traffic and even carbon. For business and some educational settings, it is difficult to see why we would go back?

On a personal level, nothing can replace a hug from family members. In the meantime (and in this pandemic) these techniques are the next best thing and do bring far more positive aspects then a telephone call. Like it or not, Facetime, Zoom, Teams and others are here to stay, and it is inevitable that more channels and further advances and innovation will emerge. 

Are you ready for your implant!

What “tech” is helping your business and keeping you in touch with family members? How do you feel about the accelerating lack of "physical interaction? As always please feel free to comment below.

In our personal lives we must embrace technology, at least in the meantime. Those that advocate this new world must try to encourage others and help (all) our seniors to understand it. It falls on our leaders to support everyone currently and ensure that technology is within the grasp of everyone, especially our children.