THE BENEFITS OF TECHNOLOGY IN SERVICE DELIVERY

 Introduction

Technology is the application of scientific knowledge to change and manipulate the human environment. In the 21^st century, technology is applied vastly in all areas of human life, especially in service delivery making life convenient, easy, flawless, and manageable. The world has become a global village, thanks to technology enabling real-time sharing of information, knowledge, finances, and life experiences across the world.

Technology is applied in education and learning, trade, commerce and business, information communication technology, engineering, entertainment, and social interactions.

Technology in Education and Learning

The Covid 19 pandemic, increased the uptake of service delivery through information communication technology. Technology was key in ensuring life progressed normally despite the disease. To survive, organizations had to adopt the use of computers and the internet for remote working and learning. Online tools and applications that brought groups together regardless of their location example: Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Google Classroom, and Zoom became must-haves.

Learners and users of these tools enjoy access to information in a convenient and easy format. Information is shared in form of word documents, photographs, audio, video, and graphics delivered through videos, podcasts, webinars, and e-books. Knowledge has become accessible and cheap for all.

Technology in Social Life

Human biometrics are collected and used to assist governments in keeping records of their populations. These are used in understanding the demography of residents for budgeting and planning purposes, and delivery of social services example free medical insurance and education.

Social life and interactions have moved online. Applications that enhance human interactions across the world have been created. Technology has enabled people to get entertained, informed, and socialize freely with each other. The benefit is that societal barriers that existed before are broken, and individuals with similar interests can come together and move forward with their agenda of choice. Social Media platforms: YouTube, Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, Linked-in, Instagram, and Pinterest have become everyday meeting points for interactions.

There is also the Internet of things, where home appliances example fridges are fitted with technological tools and applications enabling humans to monitor, operate, control and manage their homes and machines remotely. This is very beneficial in giving people assurance, peace of mind, and a sense of security over their properties. With mental ease, individuals can be more productive and creative in finding solutions to life problems.

Technology in Business and Commerce

Businesses are using technology for service delivery both online and offline. Organizations are going paperless through the use of telephones, computers, and at the point of sales. Financial technologies have been created that enable payment for transactions to be made instantly, and credit obtained easily through money transfer apps like M-pesa.

E-commerce shops like Amazon and Jumia have mushroomed all over the internet enabling people to buy and sell easily. Transportation and the hospitality industry have not been left behind. One can request food, transportation, book tickets, and a place to stay in their comfort.

In conclusion, the future of service delivery is technology.