Technology has fundamentally changed how communities are established and sustained, changing the face of contemporary civilisation.

In order to connect people, build relationships, and create strong, resilient communities, social media platforms and sophisticated communication tools have become essential, according to a statement from Olawunmi Odufuye.

According to the author, people may now interact with people who have similar interests, go beyond geographical limits, and create lively online communities thanks to the digital revolution.

Social media sites like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook have become into indispensable resources for fostering community.

They make it possible for people to interact with people who have similar interests to them, regardless of where they live. People can share ideas, lend assistance, and work together on projects in online communities and forums.

According to Odufuye, these online exchanges frequently result in in-person relationships and neighbourhood activities, strengthening social cohesion.

According to the author, instant messaging services like WhatsApp, Slack, and Discord facilitate communication between users instantly, which makes it simpler for community members to plan events and keep in touch.

Particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams have been essential for remotely facilitating face-to-face meetings.

“These tools have ensured that community ties remain strong even when physical meetings are not possible by facilitating remote work, online education, and virtual social gatherings,” the speaker said.

By utilising the strength of group donations, these platforms enable the achievement of financial objectives that might be impossible to reach on an individual basis. This spirit of teamwork promotes communal growth and resilience while fortifying links within the community.

Regional applications and smart city projects

Localised apps that offer details on public services, nearby companies, and activities in the community aid in keeping people informed and involved. Smart city projects, such as effective waste management systems and real-time traffic reports, leverage technology to enhance urban living, according to Odufuye.

The author clarified that by tackling common urban difficulties, these technology breakthroughs make cities more habitable and build a feeling of community.

Augmented and virtual reality

Odufuye claims that by producing immersive experiences, VR and AR technologies are generating new opportunities for community building.

“People can interact during meetings, social gatherings, and even virtual travel by collaborating in a common digital environment thanks to virtual reality.”

The application of digital information, such as historical details about nearby landmarks or instructions to community centres, over the real world through augmented reality has the potential to improve community participation.

Community insights and data analytics

The author clarified that data analytics technologies offer insightful information about the requirements and habits of the community. Community leaders can use data analysis to make well-informed decisions about policy formation, event planning, and resource allocation.

“By tailoring community initiatives to the real needs and preferences of the residents, this data-driven approach ensures more impactful and effective results.”

She said in closing that in the digital age, technology has become a crucial component in fostering community. Communities can maintain connectivity, engagement, and resilience through the utilisation of social media, communication tools, crowdfunding platforms, localised applications, VR/AR, and data analytics.

“Technology is an indispensable part of modern society and will only become more so as it develops and fosters vibrant, strong communities.”