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returning. The United Kingdom has already
implemented a similar program called the
Immunity Passport Program.
Some experts even talked about the possibility of
adding body temperature monitors underneath
desks to monitor if someone has a temperature.
A similar technology already exists so it wouldn’t
be hard to implement, however, it could pose
some morale issues if employees feel like they
are constantly being monitored.
AUTOMATION & TECHNOLOGY
ACCELERATED
The idea of automation being accelerated can
sound scary. Everyone thinks of movies such as
I, Robot where robots take over the world and
turn their backs on humanity. Some do predict
though that COVID-19 will cause an increase
in the acceleration of automated technology to
eliminate jobs. Algorithms can be put in place
for administrative tasks, robots can perform
tasks in manufacturing, and drones can deliver
goods. This would all help eliminate the concerns
of needing to get rid of employees to social
distance, while maintaining operation.
With more people working at home, the digital
divide is also expected to close. According to
the Federal Communications Commission, 21
million Americans lack access to the internet
still, meaning many workers aren’t able to work
at home. A different study from WhistleOut
MAY - JUNE 2021
CA
LIFESTYLEEER
showed that 35% of people surveyed said their
weak Internet has prevented them from doing
their work at some point during the Coronavirus
and 43% said they had to use their phone as a
hotspot during the crisis. As working at home
becomes more of the norm of businesses, it is
hoped that government officials see the need
to increase broadband infrastructure. Funding
and resources may vary by state, but it would
allow equal access to all residents in the state
to work at home. As new homes are built and
existing homes remodeled, working from home
will be taken more into consideration as well.
New technology will be developed for working at
home. A company called Argodesign has already
developed a concept called the Square, which
allows you to raise a shade and see your co-
workers working right next to you!
INVESTMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY AT
COMPANIES
Not only does the government and technology
companies need to be thinking about
technology though. All companies will need
to invest in the proper technology to allow
their employees to efficiently and productively
work at home for the long term. A study from
G&S found that 40% of Americans who’ve
begun working remotely say one of the top
challenges is setting up technology, like phones
and laptops. Other issues employees have
found is not having the proper headset for
phone calls, not having a second monitor, and
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