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Now that 2021 is in the history books, we now turn our gaze to 2022. What will 2022 bring us?
First and foremost, trends come and go as they do. So, now that 2022 just started, what kinds of trends will be expected?
Now, when thinking about trends that will rock 2022, here are a few factors that will come into play:
- The COVID-19 pandemic
- The rise in technology, AND
- The need for convenience
With that said, in today’s post, we will discuss 5 of the most notable trends that will take place in 2022.
1. Ongoing Recovery From COVID-19 Pandemic
COVID-19: the pandemic that stole the world in 2020 with its outbreaks, overwhelming of hospitals and resources, and deaths. 2021 had brought some developments to combat the virus, but there was still work to be done to eradicate it once and for all.
Now, in 2022, despite the COVID-19 pandemic subsiding slowly with more vaccinations, there is now the Omicron variant encouraging renewed shutdowns in certain places in the world. However, with medical experts, organizations, etc. becoming smarter with COVID-19, this is a sign that recovery is possible. With around-the-clock tests and clinical trials, along with public awareness, the world will soon see an end to the pandemic this year (hopefully).
2. Gig Economy Vs. Grocery Delivery Startups
During the pandemic, the gig economy became a booming business for those looking to earn money while being forced to leave their traditional workspace in either an office, a restaurant, etc. Within the gig economy is the concept of delivering goods (i.e. packages, food, groceries, etc.) to homes, which had stepped up to somewhat replace the trend of people physically going to a place in light of the pandemic’s shutdowns.
However, there are now grocery delivery startups that are trying to muscle their way into the home-delivery business. With labour a competitive component in the gig economy, there is now a need to “fill positions” by enticing prospective drivers with:
- Higher wages
- The right to keep 100% of a tip
- The promise of having a flexible schedule
- The ability to choose one’s ride (i.e. car, scooter, bike, etc.), and so on…
Although competition is common in any industry, the gig economy will now have to compete with the rise in startups that promise fast and convenient grocery deliveries.
3. Remote Work Vs. Traditional Work
With the pandemic forcing much of the workforce to work from home, there is now a need for work to be more convenient and comfortable for employees. Now, companies are trying to hire in-house personnel, so that work can be done both at home and in the physical establishment.
However, things like school, child care, elder care, etc. are now on the table. Should people sacrifice work to be at home? Or is there a way to be available both at work and at home?
Working from home has become the preferred work option for many people – and it’s still a preferred method, even as the world is still working to get rid of COVID-19 for good.
4. VR Will Try To Be Relevant Again
Remember virtual reality (VR)?
Well, while the hype for VR has long run its course, it’s starting to slowly build up again, especially in 2022. From social media pushing the concept, to improving technology, VR will strive to put to rest issues like motion sickness, poor content, and bulky headsets. With these issues worked on, VR hopes to be relevant again in the year 2022.
5. A More Intense Race To Space
Space – the gateway to new worlds, as depicted in movies, shows, etc. A scientist’s dream, a dreamer’s fantasy, and the hope of someone wondering about life beyond Earth, space holds the key to the future.
That’s why many countries will continue to launch projects that will allow companies to send people to space. Whether it’s to find life, or for tourism purposes, more developments will blossom when it comes to exploring space.
Plus, there will be projects involving fully-reusable, orbital launch vehicles. Rather than have orbital vehicles fall apart as they go into space, such vehicles may be upgraded to be usable before and after launch.
Conclusion
Ultimately, 2022 will be about bringing changes, tech miracles, and convenience to consumers and companies alike. Even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues despite the developments in vaccinations, 2022 will still bring about change through these 5 trends.
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