Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Technology is filling a void

This past year has challenged local businesses and the entire economy like no other period in our lifetime. And with COVID-19 cases continuing to surge, the need for elected leaders to refocus on economic recovery and public health remains dire. To do so, they must recognize that small businesses have been able to maintain operations with the help of digital technology and online platforms, which will continue to be vital components as we enter into a post-COVID world.

Innovation in digital platforms over the past decade has delivered the opportunity for Nevada’s small-business community to remain operational during such unprecedented circumstances. And thankfully, these resources are more accessible and affordable than ever. Tools such as Google Drive, Microsoft Teams and Slack allow employees to communicate internally, from home, and easily update customers on operating hours, safety procedures, and other critical updates in a flash. Meanwhile, social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram have allowed businesses to stay connected with their communities and customers, creating real connections with people in a time when that’s the most important component for successful business marketing.

These digital services will continue to provide essential lifelines as the vaccine distribution effort scales up, and therefore must become priorities now.

The writer is owner and market research and strategy consultant for S2 Research, and president-elect of the American Marketing Association Las Vegas.