Overview:
Cemetery software is a specialized software designed to manage cemetery operations such as record-keeping, plot mapping, burial scheduling, and financial management. This software has now become an essential tool for many cemetery managers who are looking for efficient and streamlined operations. In this article, we will explore the uses, benefits, features, and drawbacks of cemetery software. We will also look at five examples of relevant software products to give you a better understanding of the varying capabilities and limitations of the software.
Who Uses Cemetery Software?
Cemetery software is primarily used by cemetery managers, staff, and operators who are responsible for maintaining the cemetery records and overall operations. Additionally, funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, and mausoleums that offer pre-need services also use cemetery software to manage administrative tasks.
Benefits of Cemetery Software:
The use of cemetery software brings numerous benefits, including:
Increased Efficiency: Cemetery software helps to enhance the productivity of cemetery personnel by automating manual tasks such as plot mapping, scheduling, and record-keeping.
Better Record-Keeping: Cemetery software maintains accurate records, including burial dates, plot information, and contact details of the family members or representatives.
Improved Customer Service: Customers appreciate faster and more efficient service, which is made possible by the use of cemetery software. The software enables the staff to handle requests, queries, and complaints promptly.
Enhanced Financial Management: Cemetery software allows cemetery managers to track the financial aspects of their operations such as billing, invoicing, and payment processing.
Features of Cemetery Software:
Most cemetery software products have the following features:
Plot Mapping: Cemetery software provides an interactive map of the cemetery to help users keep track of available plots and assign them easily.
Recordkeeping: The software maintains detailed records of burials, including the decedent’s name, date of death, and burial location.
Burial Scheduling: Cemetery software enables operators to schedule burials efficiently, avoiding overlapping of services.
Financial Management: The software can provide reports on accounts receivable, outstanding balances, and how much revenue is being generated from cemetery operations.
5 Examples of Cemetery Software:
- PlotBox (plotbox.io): PlotBox is an all-in-one management system designed for funeral homes, cemeteries, and crematoriums. Apart from plot mapping, scheduling, and record-keeping, it also features a facility to map out cemetery property so that potential clients can see what’s available and reserve plots online.
- CemeteryFind (cemeteryfind.com): CemeteryFind is a comprehensive software designed to create online cemetery maps, search burial records, and create reports. It also allows cemetery operators to provide families with enhanced search functions and a unique experience when finding gravesites.
- Grave Discover Software (gravediscover.com): Grave Discover is a cloud-based software that provides cemetery mapping, record-keeping, and grave search functionalities. It also has a feature that allows family members to add pictures, story, and obituaries to the online memorial website.
- Cemetery Information Management System (cimscloud.com): CIMis a cloud-based software that provides cemetery mapping, record-keeping, and lot sales. It also includes a customizable public-facing website so that potential clients can see their cemetery’s map and information.
- CEMS (cemsllcusa.com): CEMS is a software designed to manage cemeteries comprehensively. It provides features such as mapping, recordkeeping, financial management, and even cemetery-specific maintenance tracking. It also includes a user-friendly website to make it easier for clients to make inquiries and reserve plots.
The Drawbacks and Limitations of Cemetery Software:
While cemetery software brings numerous benefits, there are also limitations and drawbacks. Some of these include:
Cost: Cemetery software can be costly, particularly for smaller cemeteries which do not need the full suite of features.
Training: Cemetery software can be complicated to learn, and staff may require extensive training to use the software effectively.
Data Loss: Data loss can be catastrophic for cemeteries as it can lead to incorrect burials and lost records. Ensuring data backups are frequent and stored off-site is critical.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the use of cemetery software can significantly benefit cemetery managers and staff in running efficient cemetery operations. Cemetery managers should consider the benefits and limitations of each software product before choosing the most appropriate one for their cemetery’s needs. With the right software in place, cemetery staff can provide highly efficient service to families and improve the overall experience for everyone involved.