5 emerging smart industries in 2021

Though almost all businesses use technology to some degree, some take it to new heights by creating an entire smart industry. With the COVID-19 pandemic as a leading factor that’s forcing change, 2021 will solidify five main smart industries as norms.

Now, as tech leads these industries into the technological future, it’s likely that the smart changes will remain after the pandemic ends.

1. Health Care

When it comes to radical transformations, health care takes the top spot. Facilities across the United States, and the entire world, have had to adapt and make room, often going over capacity, for COVID-19 patients.

During this time, standard checkups, hospital visits, and health monitoring have changed. Telehealth allows health care providers to talk with patients from a distance, diagnose their issues, and write a prescription, all within the appointment window.

When going in-person to a hospital, some facilities use Internet of Things (IoT) tech to track patients and staff members through badges. That way, contact tracing is easier and the hospital can slow the spread.

Finally, wearables are now essential for tracking and monitoring health. Whether it’s a smartwatch or portable dialysis device, wearable tech brings health care to the patient no matter their location.

2. Manufacturing

Manufacturing is the behind-the-scenes industry that keeps the supply chain running. Since spikes in COVID-19 outbreaks slow down manufacturing, the industry is learning to adapt with smart tech.

To build a smoother process, manufacturers are now using smart analytics and tracking to take inventory, monitor the precise locations of their shipments and orders, and keep up with fluctuating supply and demand levels.

In addition, manufacturers can switch out traditionally analog systems for smart versions and gadgets. For instance, a smart positioning system has better accuracy, versatility, and reliability than outdated setups. Newer robotic systems can also help locate and retrieve items in warehouse storage.

3. Education

Education is another industry the pandemic hit hard. Some schools are sticking with distance learning, while others attempt to make a hybrid model work. The distance requires new tech platforms like Zoom or Google Drive to keep everyone in contact and up to speed.

However, education has adapted in other ways, too. Standing out in a sea of tech, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are changing the way students learn.

These mixed-reality platforms let students have hands-on experiences at any grade level. They can explore a new landscape or they can even create their own AR app. AR and VR also help with language barriers, with translation features already built in.

4. Cybersecurity

Towards the beginning of the pandemic, the FBI reported up to 4,000 cybersecurity calls and reports daily, which is a drastic increase from pre-pandemic levels. As people rely on the internet for information about unemployment, finances, the pandemic, and vaccines, cybercriminals have vast opportunities to conduct scams or breaches.

Thus, cybersecurity has had to step up its game. Historically, it’s been part of an IT team’s responsibilities. But now, cybersecurity professionals can operate on their own or as part of a firm. They’ll use innovative firewall protection, antivirus software, and automation to track an organization’s privacy and security at all hours.

Protecting information is now an industry in its own right.

5. Retail

As people started to stay home and social distance, retail needed to adapt quickly. E-commerce soon became the norm, with online shopping increasing by 44 percent in the past year. Now, curbside pickup and delivery pervade all retail sectors and locations.

As with manufacturing, retailers can use smart analytics to process data about consumer buying habits, trends, and upcoming changes to the market, like the rise of new shopping methods. Then, with a better handle on their markets, corporations and small businesses can stay afloat during difficult times. Adapting to the new technological landscape and gadgets is the key.

The Recurring Theme

Throughout each of these industries, the pandemic has been the driving force for their tech revolutions. COVID-19’s impact is undeniable. Through such catastrophic effects, these industries are adapting in innovative ways. Now, as 2021 solidifies these industries, they become more efficient and accessible for all.

Photo credit: PopTika / Shutterstock

Devin Partida writes about AI, apps and technology at ReHack.com, where she is Editor-in-Chief