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Thinking of digitalising your funeral home? Here’s what to ask prospective tech suppliers.
Whether you’re new to funeral management software or considering switching providers, this guide is essential reading. We explore seven key questions to ask any prospective tech company to ensure you make a confident and valuable investment in your firm’s future. Read on to learn more…
A growing number of independent funeral firms are going digital to streamline tasks such as invoicing, resource planning and mortuary management.
The benefits are myriad. From actionable data and insights on customers to accurate management information about team performance, there are numerous reasons to switch to a cloud-based platform approach to managing your funeral business.
However, if you’re new to technology, evaluating prospective funeral management software suppliers is no mean feat. For the uninitiated, it can be difficult to understand what the key points of difference are, which tools are most suitable for your business and how nuances in contracts shape your fees.
To help you navigate this potentially bewildering process, we’ve developed seven key questions to ask when researching providers:
Can your software be customised to suit my business?
Why this matters: Every funeral firm has its own unique way of operating, often built on generations of tradition and community trust. A rigid, “one-size-fits-all” system can force you to change your valued processes. The right software should adapt to your business, not vice versa.
What to look for: A provider who begins by asking questions about your specific needs. Look for features like customisable forms, configurable fields and a willingness to make necessary changes to suit your workflow. Ask for testimonials from other independent firms regarding their flexibility.
Will you keep developing your technology?
Why this matters: The funeral profession is constantly evolving with new regulations and changing consumer expectations. You are not just buying a tool for today; you are investing in a platform for the future. You don’t want to be tied to an obsolete system on a multi-year contract.
What to look for: A partner who is committed to long-term development and innovation. Ask to see their product roadmap and question whether they have a team of in-house developers, which often means they can be more responsive and invested in the platform’s future.
What support will I get if something goes wrong?
Why this matters: Funeral homes operate 24/7, and a system failure during an arrangement or in the middle of the night is not an option. You need to know that responsive, expert help is available when you need it most.
What to look for: A clear support agreement. Ask what level of assistance you can expect and the types of contact offered, whether via telephone, email or online chat. A UK-based support team that understands the specific pressures of the funeral profession is a significant advantage.
Will you provide training?
Why this matters: Your team will have varying levels of confidence with new technology. A single, rushed training session is not enough. Proper training ensures your team feels confident, which is critical for successful adoption and getting the full value from your investment.
What to look for: A provider that offers comprehensive training tailored to your staff’s needs and different roles within the business. This could include on-site sessions, remote learning and access to ongoing resources so everyone can get up to speed quickly.
Is my data secure?
Why this matters: Data security is non-negotiable. You are responsible for some of the most sensitive personal information a family can share. A data breach would be devastating for both the families you serve and your firm’s reputation.
What to look for: A clear and confident answer. Ask what safeguards are in place, such as data encryption and secure, UK-based servers. Get confirmation of who will have access to the data and ask to see their GDPR and data protection policies.
Does the software cover everything my business needs?
Why this matters: The goal of an integrated system is to eliminate the need for separate, disconnected spreadsheets and paper files. If a prospective platform doesn’t cover a critical part of your workflow, you will be forced to create workarounds, defeating the purpose of the investment.
What to look for: Before any demo, list all your current processes, from the first call and mortuary management to vehicle logistics, final invoicing and aftercare. Check that the software includes features to support each stage. A good provider will want to demonstrate how their system fits your business, not just show off generic features.
What will it really cost – now and later?
Why this matters: Attractive introductory offers can be tempting, but they can hide long-term costs that inflate your budget later on. Understanding the full pricing model is essential.
What to look for: Complete transparency. Ask for a clear breakdown of all initial setup fees, ongoing monthly or annual licence costs and what is included in the price (e.g., support, updates, data storage). This ensures there are no surprises and you can budget with confidence.
By thoroughly evaluating providers based on these key areas, you will be able to make a sound investment in your firm’s efficiency, compliance and long-term growth, benefiting your business and the families in your care for years to come.
This blog previously appeared on Funeral Notices here.
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