As businesses remain closed due to the pandemic, many have begun to “pivot”. Rather than depending on quick reopening of their establishments, some are getting very creative. There is a circus in Louisville KY that has started having socially distanced street parades for birthdays. Schools are doing drive-by graduations.

We are both IT volunteers for non-profit organizations which means we are directly involved with implementing technologies for keeping our members virtually involved and connected. We hear about people struggling with boredom during the COVID lockdown. Because we are both in technology and because these are such unprecedented times in which we are heavily relying on technology for connectedness, we are crazy busy!

I provide Web Development and Support for Tennessee DAR. Our spring State Conference was canceled due to COVID-restrictions. Like other organizations, that left us scrambling to implement Zoom at a state level in addition to fast-tracking platforms to enable us to simultaneously live stream to YouTube and Facebook. I am also taking advantage of online classes and conferences that I otherwise would never have been able to attend. WordCamp Europe was wonderful!

Tim is on the board of two local non-profits: Nashville Technology Council (NTC) and TechBridge. Both of these organizations are hosting their spring fundraisers in a virtual format. While we need to beef up our equipment a bit, what we have is adequate for now. Besides, we arrived at the need-technology-to-work-from-home-party a bit late just like we did for the March Toilet Paper Party. Stock will return – sooner or later.

But by far, one of the most enjoyable virtual events was a series of mixology classes. This is a great example of companies pivoting during the lockdown. Providing home delivery of required supplies and using a video platform like Zoom, this proved to be a very fun evening.

Of course, no one knows for certain how long the lockdown will continue. Essential businesses remain open and other businesses are slowly being permitted to reopen with new guidelines in place. We are hoping for the best, and appreciate the efforts of our local major who is establishing what seems to be a rational and reasonable plan to reopen. Until then …. CHEERS!