Since the dawn of the connected era, people have been finding new uses for their PCs, laptops, tablets, phones, and every other device that allows them to go online at will. Long ago, in the 1990s, most of the experts were still of the opinion that computers would primarily be job-related tools for office workers. The idea that every living human, from age seven and up, would one day carry computers with them wherever they went would have been laughed at. Now that the entire world is wired for connectivity, the human mind continues to find fresh, interesting, and relevant uses for computers. Here are some of the latest strategies that make life easier for anyone with a smartphone, tablet, wearable device, or any kind of internet-connected appliance.
Sign-Up and Renewals
Want to register to vote, renew your driver’s license, or apply for annual renewal of your car registration? You can do it all at any state-sponsored website. Some systems are more streamlined than others, but all 50 U.S. states now offer residents the chance to take care of these three common chores that used to mean standing in line for hours. In more than 20 states, you can register to vote and renew licenses and registration on a single form. It’s even possible to pay renewal fees via online shopping carts built right into the sites.
Getting Online Medical Services
One of the good things to come out of the COVID lockdown was the surge in remote medical services. Now, just about anyone can book a video check-up with their doctor, do an at-home virus test, or apply renew a medical marijuana (MMJ) card. For example, it now takes just a few minutes to renew your MMJ card in New York via an online portal that offers fast, friendly assistance from a human being on the other end of the connection. Plus, you’re only billed after approval, so the process is not only convenient but logical and based on common sense.
Finding Volunteer Opportunities
Those who want to contribute time to worthwhile causes can find all sorts of options at volunteer websites and clearinghouses. Most cities have their own matching sites for local residents who want to help do things like teach English to new citizens, help high-school kids with homework, teach older folks how to use computers, or tutor young children in basic subjects like reading and arithmetic. The beauty of the volunteer portals is that you can sign up for a wide-reaching registry and find positions with local, state, national, or international organizations. It’s an ideal way to match your own skills with a volunteer slot that might otherwise go unfilled.
Shopping for Groceries
Most of the major food chains now offer online ordering and at-home delivery. Getting your weekly groceries has never been easier. Once you fill out an initial order form, you’ll only have to enter new information if you decide to delete or add items to your standard grocery list. Consumers can choose to select from written lists or do a virtual video walk-through of store aisles for a more traditional shopping experience.
