06/27/2023
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WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO IMPLEMENT A CEMETERY SOFTWARE?

Implementing cemetery software effectively requires careful planning and execution.  Most software implementations fail, not because the software doesn't meet requirements, but because there's a lack of preparation and understanding of the implementation process. Here are some steps to consider for a successful cemetery software implementation:

Define Cemetery Objectives and Requirements

Clearly define your cemetery objectives and the specific requirements the software needs to fulfill. Identify key stakeholders and involve them in the planning process to ensure their needs and expectations are considered. Make sure the end-users are involved in all discussions and aspects of the implementation since the success of the implementation is a direct result of their buy-in and adoption of the cemetery system.
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Establish a Cemetery Project Team

Create a dedicated project team with representatives from different departments or teams that will be impacted by the cemetery software implementation. Assign clear roles and responsibilities to team members and establish effective communication channels.  Make sure there is at least one individual that will become the super user of the cemetery software.
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Develop an Implementation Plan

Create a detailed plan that outlines the implementation timeline, tasks, milestones, and dependencies. Identify any necessary data migration or integration requirements. Set realistic deadlines and allocate resources accordingly.  If you don't have dedicated resources to assign to the implementation, make sure to consider their current workload when setting a timeline and assigning tasks.
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Prepare the Infrastructure

Ensure that the necessary hardware, network, and infrastructure are in place to support the software. Verify that the system requirements align with your existing IT environment and make any necessary upgrades or adjustments.  In today's cloud-based infrastructures, this can be as simple as making sure your users can access the software from their portable devices, such as laptops and tablets.
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Data Migration and Cleansing

If you are migrating data from existing systems to the new software, plan and execute the data migration process carefully. Cleanse and validate the data to ensure accuracy and integrity.  This is generally the biggest bottleneck and time-consuming exercise of any implementation, but also the most important.  Like anything, garbage in is garbage out and that holds true for all cemetery software implementations.
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Customization and Configuration

If the cemetery software allows for customization or configuration, work closely with the cemetery software vendor or internal IT team to tailor the software to your specific requirements. Balance customization with the need to maintain the software's core functionality and support future upgrades.  Simple configurations like adding your cemetery logo, updating the color scheme, and customizing the URL will go a long way for improving the user experience.
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Cemetery Training and Education

Provide comprehensive training to users who will be utilizing the cemetery software. Offer both general training on the software's features and functions, as well as specific training based on individual roles and responsibilities. Consider offering training materials, user guides, and ongoing support to facilitate the learning process.  A good cemetery software will have all of this built into the software so you can learn at your own pace, especially if the training materials is supported by online training videos.
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Test and Validate

Conduct thorough testing of the cemetery software to identify and resolve any issues or bugs. Develop test scenarios and use cases that cover various functionalities and business processes. Involve end-users in the testing process to gather feedback and ensure the software meets their needs. It is critical for the long-term success of the cemetery software that the end-users are comfortable with the cemetery software before is goes live.
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Cemetery Rollout and User Adoption

Plan a phased rollout of the cemetery software to minimize disruption and allow for gradual adoption. Communicate the benefits of the software to users, address any concerns, and provide ongoing support during the transition period. Monitor user adoption and address any issues that arise.
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Evaluate and Optimize

Continuously evaluate the cemetery software's performance, user feedback, and alignment with your objectives. Collect data and metrics to assess the impact of the cemetery software on your business processes and outcomes. Use this information to optimize and improve the software implementation as needed.

Remember that successful cemetery software implementation requires collaboration, effective communication, and the involvement of key stakeholders and end-users throughout the process. It's important to be adaptable and responsive to feedback and make necessary adjustments along the way.

Request a demo of EverArk today to see how you can implement a new cemetery management software. Or, ask us to help you plan your implementation.

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