8/31/2022

Reimagining Cemetery Management

For more than 200 years, cemeteries have struggled with paper maps, keeping accurate written records, storing hard copies of documents, and ensuring inventory is up to date. 
Cemeteries everywhere are ending these archaic administrative practices by switching to digital management systems. In this day and age, when cemeteries fail to utilize this technology, they may be inviting disaster and putting their cemetery’s reputation on the line.

Shoddy Cemetery Management Leads to Shock and Heartache

In 2008, Arlington National Cemetery came under scrutiny when the widow of an army soldier complained that the wrong headstone was sitting atop her husband’s grave. The Pentagon got involved and their investigation revealed many more problems. Word traveled fast and soon numerous people and organizations started investigating the tragic circumstances at Arlington Cemetery.

To everyone’s dismay, investigators discovered that two servicemen had been buried in the same grave, coffins had been placed in shallow graves, and a servicemember’s cremated remains were buried in an occupied grave that was unmarked. In other cases, grave markers were not placed on graves immediately following burials and records were not updated, which resulted in questions surrounding the identities of decedents. Other heartbreaking instances include gravediggers discovering a casket while they were excavating a “vacant” plot and burial urns that had been unearthed, then dumped into a landfill. 

In May of 2009, the inspector general’s report was complete. It revealed that cemetery officials were negligent because they continued to use a paper filing system to keep track of cemetery operations instead of the computerized database they had at their disposal.   

Investigations continued and more problems - from mismanaged records to discarded headstones – were discovered. More than two years later, the Northern Virginia Technology Council concluded its three-month investigation into the cemetery’s administrative practices. Their report stated, “the cemetery must digitize its records, improve its scheduling system, and establish a rigorous chain of custody for remains as they move from funeral homes to burial.”

EverArk is Replacing Old-Fashioned Cemetery Management Practices

Gone are the days of tracking cemetery plots on paper maps and filing critical documents in clunky cabinets that take up precious space and that can easily be misplaced or lost. Technology is streamlining the cemetery industry and EverArk is leading the way. 

EverArk is state-of-the-art cemetery management software that eliminates administrative errors. When a cemetery is supported by EverArk, records will remain accurate and organized for all time. This not only safeguards the business from public embarrassment and potential litigation but also allows staff to have more time to spend on customer service and less time with administrative busywork.

While cemetery management software is not new on the grand-scale, EverArk is in a class by itself. 

In addition to keeping cemetery records organized and enabling internet sales, EverArk allows cemetery staff to obtain digital signatures, which is an exclusive component of EverArk software. Another unique benefit of EverArk is that it provides a bird’s eye view of plots and gardens. This is the only cemetery management software with satellite image capabilities. Cemeteries that are beta testing EverArk have reported that satellite imagery helps them close more sales. It also makes the process of choosing a plot more comfortable for customers because they can avoid taking a fieldtrip through the cemetery to see the appearance of the plot’s location.

When it comes to transitioning from antiquated administrative practices to a digital recordkeeping system, EverArk makes it easy because critical documents can simply be uploaded into the software program. Once this is accomplished, bulky file cabinets can be donated and the newly acquired space can be put to good use. Additionally, the team does not need to be well versed in technology. The learning curve is manageable, and most offices are able to get up and running right away.

EverArk is Connecting Cemeteries and the Public in Innovative Ways

Helping cemeteries keep accurate records is a huge step in the right direction, but EverArk is also changing the way cemeteries assist the family and friends of those buried on their grounds. 

The EverArk software is accompanied by an app that uses GPS technology, which is unique to the industry. When a person’s final resting place is documented in the EverArk software, loved ones no longer need to consult with cemetery staff or refer to the graveyard’s directory to pay their respects. They simply download the EverArk app to receive notifications when they are nearby the gravesite. The app also gives them access to the decedent’s digital legacy, which they can enjoy viewing at any time and even share it with anyone they wish.

EverArk is Improving the Way Cemeteries Do Business

When cemetery managers subscribe to EverArk, they are demonstrating their dedication to keeping organized records, serving the public, and respecting those who have passed away. They are also saving money that can be used toward the upkeep of their gardens because EverArk is the least expensive cemetery management software on the market today.   

If you are ready to secure your cemetery’s shining reputation by transforming the way it is managed, request a demo of EverArk today!