| | December 20208CIOReviewIN MY OPINIONBy Douglas Duncan, CIO, Columbia Insurance Group(TECHNOLOGY) LEADERSHIP FOR COVID-19What does COVID-19 have to do with technology? A few weeks ago many would have said very little outside of the HealthTech industry. Because this virus is effectively shutting down our face-to-face activities, technology is taking the forefront for how we mitigate the effect. Suddenly it seems, though in fact the changes have seeped into our business foundations for decades, we have both a crisis and the business work-arounds to mitigate it.As I sit writing this, I am not watching my team in the Big 12 Tournament. Next week I will not be watching the NCAA tournament. I am not getting ready to fly to an industry conference, and I am not holding a face-to-face workshop to define a critical data architecture. Most certainly I am not conducting my business as usual and it is only looking to worsen for the coming weeks.While for many this is inconvenient, for those affected and their families, for those with serious impacts to their life and health, for those who are separated from loved ones or whose livelihoods are hurt by this event, it is much more than that. It is a real and impactful life event and I offer my deepest sympathies and support.But in comparison to all the other risks and threats we face, is the general reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic rational? Are these actions preventing the spread of the virus or are they only preventing future recriminations if no action had taken place? My personal reaction up to this point had been one of skepticism and optimism. Skeptical that this really merits all the media and political attention it has received. Optimistic that any day now people will see reason and things will become more normal. It does not take stock market updates or Oval Office announcements to know my optimism was misplaced.Does this mean I was wrong in thinking this has been over-hyped? Perhaps so. However, I have come to realize it does not really matter. What is important is to recognize which way the current is flowing and act accordingly. Swim as hard as you want, but the tide will win in the end if you are not smart about setting your course.
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