How we have stayed connected outlines the findings from recent research we undertook as part of our .IE Digital Town Awards. We surveyed 1,000 consumers to understand how they have stayed connected during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The research reveals that 47% of people in Ireland feel that community spirit has increased over the past twelve months, with those aged between 25 and 34 most likely to have noticed a positive change.
Connecting with family and friends
According to the research, digital technologies such as social media, video conferencing platforms, and websites have played a significant role in keeping people connected through the pandemic with 46% of people saying that they have had more family interactions as a result of using these digital tools.
A further 39% report increased interaction with friends through digital technologies over the same period. Furthermore, one in four report making new social connections through online community initiatives during the pandemic.
The research reveals that social messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger have been the most popular way for people to stay connected throughout the pandemic, with a total of 64% of people using these platforms.
These apps are followed by:
- Social media networks including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (20%)
- Zoom and video conferencing software (8%)
- Websites, forums, or discussion boards (3%)
- Multiplayer video games (2%)
Positive digital experiences
Many have taken up a new digital or online hobby to stay connected, with baking and cooking (16%) proving the most popular hobby, followed by movie nights (15%) and exercise classes (14%). One in six report participating in online community initiatives.
Overall, the majority of people (71%) report having positive experience with digital tools over the past 12 months. However, according to the research, almost a quarter of those surveyed noted a decline in their broadband quality over the same period (24%).
Download the findings
You can download the research findings below.
.IE Digital Town Awards
The .IE Digital Town Awards 2021 are open to towns of various sizes across Ireland. This is the first pillar of activity under .IE Digital Town which has been developed to address digital enhancement and adoption in Ireland.
The Awards promote awareness, knowledge, use and understanding of digital in Ireland by its citizens, businesses and communities. They also highlights the benefits and possibilities of digital and celebrates the digital achievements of local towns, big and small.
Visit our dedicated webpage to find out more about the Awards.