*Updated April 9, 2020
In times of uncertainty, there is no greater gift than decisive leadership that puts people first. IAB Canada has been tracking member responses to the reality we find ourselves in today and have noted actions that in our view, exemplify our definition of Thoughtful Digital Leadership. Here’s what we’re seeing in the first week of the crisis:
Amazon is prioritizing shipments of “household staples, medical supplies and other high-demand products”.
BC Hydro will work with customers impacted by COVID-19 who are having trouble paying their bill to either defer payments or arrange a flexible payment plan.
Bell, Rogers and other telecoms waive data overage fees while Canadians grapple with social distancing
Best Buy Canada is implementing reduced operation hours and taking other precautionary measures in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. They are limiting the number of people in stores and encouraging people to use their “reserve and pick-up” service to encourage social distancing.
CBC/Radio-Canada is offering Curio.ca, the tool used for educational streaming at no-charge across the country for families to use.
FrontRunner Technologies is launching a COVID-19 “WindowFront” messaging platform to provide questions and answers to everything from “what are the symptoms,” to “how are Canadians affected,” to reporting the latest travel advisories, advice from government, and where to find more information. . The firm uses its technology to turn empty retail window storefronts into displays that deliver real-time, interactive content.
Globe and Mail dropped its paywall for COVID-19 coverage
Google is putting major efforts into providing useful information, enabling productivity and protecting consumers from misinformation.
Kantar has curated recommendations and checklists for brands, media and content during the COVID-19 crisis.
Kijiji is doing its part against price gouging by banning listings for health-care masks, hand sanitizer and other items in high demand amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
LinkedIn is offering free job posts for companies that are in urgent need of skilled workers, and who can fill in quickly in critical roles including healthcare services, hospitals, clinics, mental health practices, supermarkets, warehouses, and delivery services. They have made available free mental and health related courses.
OUTFRONT Media’s “We Get You Kids At Home” initiative is giving children at home the chance to design their own digital billboard in hopes of brightening your day and spreading positivity in light of the COVID-19 craziness.
Pelmorex has several initiatives on the go to keep consumers updated and safe. From dispelling myths and sharing valuable content around safety to providing invaluable information to global COVID-19 researchers who are working hard to understand the possible connection of the virus to seasonality and the virus’ potential impacts on the environment.
Rouge Media is leveraging its DOOH screens to prioritize PSA messaging around safety across its network.
Snap is rolling out its’ “Here For You” search tool a bit earlier than planned to help users who may be feeling anxious or stressed over the coronavirus pandemic. The tool is designed to surface “safety resources” from mental health experts when users search for topics like anxiety, depression, suicide, or bullying. A coronavirus specific section has also been added to the tool.
TiKTok is working with the World Health Organization (WHO) to share informational content related to COVID-19 by providing access to accurate information and resources from public health officials in the app.
Twitter has a search prompt that sends Canadians searching for #COVID19 news to the Public Health Agency of Canada. Second, Twitter is keeping three blog posts updated on a rolling basis about our efforts to combat misinformation and protect the health of our users and employees. Third, they are prioritizing helping incredibly important organizations like Kids Help Phone.
Well.ca is encouraging customers to order responsibly and be patient. They are also delivering prescriptions in Toronto to your door so you don’t have to leave the house.
Are you an IAB Canada member with a story of your organizations’ Thoughtful Digital Leadership to share? Contact us!
*this document will be updated as new information becomes available