Many times you learn from a tragedy and that may be the case in the current health crisis affecting all of us. In a matter of months most people have learned to follow the advice of doctors and researchers who are familiar with the virus. Learning simple behaviors that help prevent the spread of the disease is critical as the scientific community develops specific medicine and treatments to diminish transmission and to help cure those already infected with the disease. A number of companies are close to developing a vaccine. Time will tell how successful those efforts will be.

Some of the things we are learning through this experience will remain with us once the virus diminishes, affecting how we do business and how we live. Many people have learned that we can function just as well without some of the things we thought we needed in our lives. Working from home, not having to be in an office every day, may be one of those things. Employees do not need to work from a centralized work place to do their jobs, and companies are learning they do not need as much office space to run a business. New technologies are critical to this ability.

Our company had a successful year despite the challenges. Our people adjusted quickly to the changing environment, worked hard and used technology to stay in touch with clients and other employees to keep our business growing, leading to a very successful year.