Technology is a major part of our lives. In this day and age, if a business doesn’t use technology in some way, it’s likely that its competitors do, leaving it at a disadvantage. Every industry uses tech in different ways, but no matter what their main focus is there are always tech components involved. Some examples are discussed below.
Public Safety
Technology is pivotal in public safety agencies. It is used in everything from emergency response to communication. Modern computer-aided dispatch systems have expanded their capabilities and features over the years. One innovation from 10-8 Systems is the improved response request and tracking with various law enforcement and public safety agencies through their AgencyLink and CAD system features. When applied in emergency response, this technology is used to help first responders and law enforcement officers in the area get to the scene as quickly as possible. This is done in coordination with GPS mapping and tracking or by using sensors that detect chemical leaks or fires.
The role of technology does not end with response and dispatch. Once at the scene, technology is used to help identify and assess the situation. This can include tools like thermal imaging cameras to see through darkness or thick smoke or drones that can be sent in to get a closer look at an area.
Communication is also key in public safety, and technology plays a big role here too. Often, different agencies need to communicate with each other during an emergency. This can be done through radios, but more and more it’s being done through digital channels like text messaging and email. Having several communication option channels greatly reduces location and emergency identification mistakes. Also, real-time communication enables officers to quickly react and adapt to the situation by relaying updates on possible backup or reinforcement requests.
Healthcare
Technology is used extensively in the healthcare industry. From patient records to surgical tools, technology touches every aspect of healthcare.
One of the most important ways that technology is used in healthcare is through patient records. These records document everything from a patient’s medical history to their current treatment plan. They are essential for doctors and nurses to have when providing care, and they can also be accessed by patients themselves if they need to know about their own health. Accessing and exchanging medical information between health professionals and patients are made more convenient with technology while also complying with the strict Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) standards. Security features like automatic logout, multi-factor authentication, Protected Health Information (PHI) encryption, etc. help safeguard private and essential medical records.
Other significant areas where technology is used in healthcare are surgery, patient care, and research. Surgical tools have come a long way from the days of scalpels and saws, and now include things like lasers and robots. For example, surgical robots are controlled by human hands but have the precision to perform small tasks. Automated medication alerts, consultation, and diagnosis report reminders, and smarter appointment setting help make the interaction between patients and healthcare professionals become more convenient and effective. The use of telemedicine saw rapid growth especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, where patients were still able to have medical checkups and consultations without leaving their homes. Lastly, Technology is also used in research for everything from finding cures for diseases to simply discovering new information about how the body works.
Business and Finance
Technology touches every aspect of business and finance, both inside offices and out on the field. This includes everything from the way that people communicate with each other to having a mobile device that can be used anywhere.
In many fields, there’s been an uptick in using mobile devices instead of traditional laptops or desktop computers when performing work. From using iPad rental services for remote business meetings to having a rugged tablet for inventory management, mobile devices are becoming an integral part of doing business. This trend is especially true in sales, where reps need all of their critical information with them at all times so they can stay productive while on the go. Technology is also used to improve communication within businesses. This can be as simple as using email instead of paper memos, or as complex as creating a company-wide intranet where employees can access all the information they need from one place.
And finally, technology is used to manage finances. This includes everything from bookkeeping to tracking stock prices. Technology has made it easier than ever for people to keep track of their money and make sound financial decisions.
The ways that technology is used in various industries are endless. No matter what business you’re in, there’s a good chance that tech is playing a role in it. So the next time you’re at work, take a moment to think about how you’re using technology and how it’s helping you get the job done. Chances are, you couldn’t do without it.
