As of writing, the number of coronavirus cases across the United States continues to rise. It has affected small businesses in Kansas — from florists, retail shops, and coffee shops, with the number of cases in Wichita growing daily.
But it’s not all bad news. Individuals and various organizations are stepping up by mobilizing resources in the form of free meals for frontline health workers, online educational videos for children, free grocery delivery services for seniors, and more.
At the heart of these good deeds are generous people and the technology tools they use. During this health crisis, there are many ways in which tech can be developed to make a dire situation more bearable. Here’s how to optimize those technological capabilities.
Explore the capabilities of telecommunications technology
Social distancing, self-quarantining, and similar safety measures will remain in place in the foreseeable future — everyone will have to observe them, even healthcare workers. And with hospitals being overwhelmed with the surge of patients, alternatives like telemedicine could help manage the growing demand.
Using telemedicine, physicians can maintain a safe distance from patients by virtually diagnosing them, treating them, and prescribing medications. Healthcare institutions are also tapping into online medical care and mental health consultations that offer a safe and convenient way to treat patients suffering from ailments other than COVID-19.
Telecoms technology also serves an important function for non-healthcare businesses. Audio-video conferencing tools can connect multiple participants to hold meetings and maintain collaboration, even as everyone works from their home workspaces. Microsoft Teams, for instance, is a collaboration platform that features real-time communication and file-sharing channels, Office 365 integration, and multi-device access can help staff achieve the same level of productivity at home.
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Utilize work-from-home tools
The state of Kansas has already imposed a stay-at-home order, which means businesses deemed nonessential must remain closed. The statewide order may seem simple, yet some businesses still find it difficult to comply.
A clear workaround for nonessential businesses is to maximize work-from-home tools. That means utilizing available devices and systems to continue operations. Laptops, cloud-based programs and applications, a home workspace, and a stable internet connection are all you need.
Related article: Working Remotely Amid the COVID-19 Outbreak
Are you ready for a remote workforce?
Working from home is unavoidable in the age of COVID-19. You need to adopt a healthy and efficient remote working strategy so that your employees will be more engaged, less stressed, and more productive. Click the button below for some tips to manage your remote workforce effectively.
Implement cybersecurity measures for a remote workforce
Security risks will inevitably increase as cybercriminals take advantage of everyone using their unsecured personal devices. Because network security at home isn’t as strong as those in offices, many businesses could fall prey. As a result, remote workers must remain vigilant while telecommuting. Business managers must make sure cybersecurity controls and policies are aligned with remote work setups. Work-from-home staff must be especially careful when opening personal and business emails on the same device.
Not clicking on suspicious links and downloading attachments from unknown senders is a smart security practice to follow, lockdown or no lockdown. And whenever possible, have your IT team identify vulnerabilities (including on devices, software, and network connections) that could easily be exploited given the distributed workforce.
Put smart technologies to use
Crisis management tools being used to combat the pandemic include smartphone apps that let quarantined patients communicate with their respective healthcare workers about their condition and progress. The WHO chatbot is used to disseminate factual information and warn of possible dangers. Apps and websites showing the locations and statuses of confirmed COVID-19 cases can also be designed.
Other practical uses of smart technologies include the use of delivery apps that facilitate contactless delivery of food and other goods at a receiver’s location. These products and services can be paid for using mobile payment apps, e-wallets, and other forms of electronic payment, which can further reduce contact between individuals and slow the disease’s spread.
Summit Advisors’ IT solutions providers have been helping small- and medium businesses maximize their technological resources for years. Reach out to our team to learn how your business in Wichita can benefit from managed IT services during this crucial time. Call us today at 316-247-3150.
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