Life In Oklahoma Relies On Digital Systems More Than We Realize

Between February 12 and February 16, Oklahoma drivers will not be able to use driver's license systems or tag services while the state updates its software system. This includes obtaining or updating your driver's license, registering a new vehicle, purchasing new tags, and other related services.

The new system is expected to make processes easier and seamless for agencies across Oklahoma. In the meantime, residents who might need to use these services during this time should plan to do so before or after the brief shutdown.

While this outage is scheduled, it serves as a reminder of how many parts of our daily lives rely on digital systems like the one Oklahoma uses for our motor vehicle services. Motor vehicle services are just one of many examples.

Getting paid and paying others

Most of us have our checks directly deposited into our virtual bank accounts. Delays, even brief ones, can be frustrating, and they highlight just how much money management now depends on digital systems.

It's a reminder that, although doing things digitally is convenient, it's always best to have some cash on hand.

Medical systems and Pharmacy needs

Many of our medical needs also rely on digital systems. Between using virtual wallets for pharmacy cards, electronic orders for pharmaceuticals, much of the process is now digital - even signing paperwork and receipts.

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Hospitals, clinics, and other medical services have transitioned away from using printed files to completely digital systems. So, information like lab results, insurance verification, and previous medical history are all stored virtually.

School and work life has taken a virtual turn.

Since the pandemic, several schools in Oklahoma have incorporated virtual learning into their workload. Although Oklahoma's legislature has tried to counteract the overuse of virtual learning, it's obvious that this has become a part of normal life for many of Oklahoma's students.

Virtual isn't just an option for Oklahoma schools, either. There are several jobs that could be done either remotely or virtually, without ever having to see another co-worker.

It used to sound outrageous to think we were living in the future, especially here in Oklahoma. But after seeing just how much of our lives now rely on internet and digital systems, it might not be outlandish after all.