Sheltering in place, social distancing, and the temporary closure of non-essential businesses were necessary to safeguard American citizens amid a national health crisis. Unfortunately, these changes did nothing for most companies. Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, brands large and small have been struggling to survive. With restrictions on operations and millions of consumers on lockdown, sales declined.
Faced with these realizations, companies began developing strategies to adjust to these uncertain times more manageable for everyone. Continue reading to learn how specific industries used technology to their advantage.
Real Estate Industry
The real estate industry, for instance, took a hit in the wake of the pandemic. Many wondered how they would schedule consultations, property visits, and open houses without putting anyone at risk. Fortunately, using digital platforms with video conferencing features allowed the business to resume. Real estate agents could have remote meetings and virtual tours with prospective clients while remaining in compliance with social distancing regulations.
Electronic document software has also become an intricate part of the real estate experience. From client intake forms to closing documents, there is a lot of paperwork exchanged between agents, brokers, mortgage companies, buyers, sellers, and attorneys. Electronic document software (EDS (News - Alert)) allows agents to draft, edit, view, store, and send the necessary paperwork to associated parties in real-time.
Legal Industry
The legal sector also had to overcome obstacles amid the pandemic. Very similar to real estate agents, attorneys were left to figure out how to meet with clients, complete court processes, and manage essential paperwork without sacrificing anyone’s health and safety. Solo and small law practices also struggled to acquire new clients, keep up with administrative tasks, and generate enough profits to stay in business.
Along with utilizing video conferencing and electronic document software, independent attorneys, and small law firms adapted technologies to lighten the load, streamline processes, and increase profits. From client intake and appointment scheduling to accounting and remote depositions, the legal industry adopted modern technologies that allowed them to continue servicing their clients while remaining in compliance.
Healthcare Industry
The healthcare industry has, without a doubt, been majorly impacted by the pandemic. As the first responders helping to save lives, healthcare providers face several challenges. However, one of the most significant issues is continuing to be there for non-COVID-19 patients in need. Some patients need to be seen from high-risk senior citizens with long-term conditions to children and adults suffering from mental and physical problems but hold off out of fear.
While technologies like electronic health records, appointment scheduling software, and patient portals were already trending in healthcare facilities, medical experts knew they needed more to accommodate the communities they serve. Telehealth software has provided relief. Doctors, nurse practitioners, therapists, and other health experts have utilized these digital platforms to host virtual meetings with patients. In a private and intimate session, experts can see their patients, ask questions, review health records, develop a treatment plan to improve their health.
Restaurant and Retail Industries
Retailers and restaurant owners nationwide have felt the financial strain since the pandemic. Until recently, most brick and mortar locations were closed to target audiences. While this has changed in recent months, health and safety regulations limit capacity and require many adjustments that increase operational costs. Despite the federal and local governments’ financial assistance, large and small restaurants and retail shops continue to fold.
Out of these financial pressures, however, came some creative innovations backed by modern technology. Retailers started turning to eCommerce platforms where customers can shop from the comfort of home and have products shipped. Restaurants partnered with on-demand food delivery service providers to get their meals sent to customers conveniently.
In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, industries nationwide were negatively impacted. Fortunately, modern advancements like video conferencing platforms, electronic document software, client intake databases, remote depositions, telehealth, and eCommerce sites, bridge the gap. As companies continue to implement these strategies to maintain business, clients and customers can acquire the products and services they need without compromising their health.
