The 12 digital tools we're using to cope during COVID-19
To say we’re currently living through unprecedented times would be an understatement. With millions of people around the country and around the world in self-imposed or government mandated quarantine, many are turning to digital technologies to connect with others.
Having worked in the digital industry for many years, it’s fascinating to see a shift in not only how many people are using digital tools but also in how they’re using them. People and businesses are truly utilizing digital to reach, engage, entertain and inform.
Here are the digital tools and applications that are currently in high-rotation at our house as we navigate COVID-19.
Facebook Live: We did a pizza making lesson hosted by a chef from a local restaurant on Friday night. A fun, educational way to bring people together (not to mention a smart business move).
FaceTime: For chatting with friends and family—typically those who are less technically savvy or that just don’t feel the need to mess with a good thing.
Houseparty: For fun, spontaneous group video chats, group gaming and messaging. It’s amazing to see how many people in my broader social network are flocking to this one.
iMovie: We’re shooting lots of video around the house—including our own version of a Food Network TV show. The kids love iMovie for editing—it’s relatively simple and easy to understand.
Instagram: Local businesses are sharing important updates, wineries are running virtual tastings, restaurants are showcasing how they’re pivoting to a take-out/curbside reality and artists are hosting concerts and directed drawing sessions. It’s quite amazing.
Microsoft Teams: It’s how work gets done at my company. File sharing, chatting, collaboration, video conferences, meetings, you name it, it happens on Teams.
Netflix: When it’s time for an escape from all the horrible news. Tiger King. Ozark. It’s all there, ready to be binged.
Nextdoor: What’s happening in our immediate neighborhood. How can we help someone in need and what information are others learning about the rapidly changing world we live in?
Peloton: If not for Peloton, staying healthy and in-shape during this time would be tough. Since quarantine started, this has become our daily escape.
Shared Albums: An easy way to visually update friends and family about the daily quarantine life we are all experiencing.
YouTube and YouTubeTV: Live and on-demand content for entertainment, information and beyond. We’re watching everything from Dude Perfect, to Hot Ones, to local news.
Zoom: Connecting with clients, video conversations and online collaboration. It’s also being used heavily by the kids’ teachers, athletic organizations and beyond.
What digital tools do you find essential at the moment?