Cloud Storage for Cemeteries: What It Is, Features & Benefits
What Is Cloud Storage For Cemeteries?
Like most other industries across the globe, funeral homes, cemeteries and crematories have had to change and adapt when it comes to using technology such as ‘the cloud’ for their cemetery data. One of the most obvious examples is how many funeral services are now streamed online, giving everyone the chance to celebrate their loved ones even when they are unable to attend a funeral in person. With much discussion around technology and its use within the funeral and death support industry, you may be wondering, what is cloud storage for cemeteries? Or perhaps you need a better understanding of exactly what kind of cemetery data can be stored in the cloud. Let’s start by understanding ‘the cloud’.
Defining ‘The Cloud’
‘The cloud’ refers to a network of remote servers (over the internet) used to store, manage, and process data. This hardware is used instead of utilizing an onsite server, personal computer, or an external device to store information.
Adopting cloud computing allows companies to reduce certain IT expenses and administrative burdens. For example, the responsibility of updating and managing servers shifts from your organization’s IT service department to a cloud service provider. ‘The cloud’ is extremely beneficial for organisations who don’t have the budget or capacity to maintain their in-house technology infrastructure. Instead, this falls to a cloud software provider, like OpusXenta.
Not only does cloud storage for cemeteries take away the need to have this information physically stored on a computer or server on premises, you are able to utilize the software and resources over the internet, giving you more convenience, flexibility, scalability, and in many cases you may find it much more cost-effective. Once you start to use cloud technology such as Byond by OpusXenta to store your cemetery data, you will be able to see just how crucial it is for the cemetery operations and the death care industry.
Key Features of Cloud Storage
Now, we know the basics – what is cloud storage for cemeteries? In terms of using cloud storage for cemeteries, the cloud is where cemeteries as well as crematories can store all the important information, such as records and data, required to run their business and best serve their clients.
This information may include but is not limited to:
* Burial records – names, dates, locations, ownership etc.
* Administration and operational records
* Cemetery mapping
* Inventory and contract information
* Financial – sales, transactions, payments, and revenue.
When all this cemetery data or information is stored in the cloud, cemeteries and crematories not only have it all stored in the one location, because the cloud is digital their staff can also access the information whenever and wherever it is needed, without any hassle.
Cloud storage for cemeteries takes away the need to store all this information electronically (on computer hard drives and servers) or physically (folders, boxes or filing cabinets containing original or copies of paper records). Physical paper records have always had their place in business, however, we know that these can be lost, damaged, destroyed, or altered in some way, and if this is the only copy you have and something happens (such as fire or flood), you can never get this information back. By saving important cemetery data in the cloud, you won’t have to rely on the hard copies anymore.
Applications For Cemeteries
There is no doubt that cloud storage for cemeteries has revolutionized how we store, manage and access vital information related to the death industry.
There are plenty of ways that cloud storage can be used for cemeteries, here are our top 5.
1) Innovative Organization & Improved Communication
As part of your technology solutions, cloud storage can help to manage all your important burial or interment information in one location. The cemetery data you can store in the cloud may include: cemetery maps, plot availability, sales and financial information, burial records, business best practices, and more. Cloud storage for cemeteries also makes the sharing of information between different departments or external organizations even easier.
2) Digital Preservation & Sharing Of Records
Cloud storage for cemeteries and other death care businesses, gives them the ability to digitally preserve their crucial records. This not only safeguards against any possible physical damage or loss of valuable data, the records can be more efficiently managed. Cemetery data stored in the cloud is automatically backed up, and is stored securely so your staff never need to think about it. Byond’s records management is ideal for all your record keeping needs.
3) Streamlining Business Processes
With specific cloud storage for cemeteries, you and your staff will have the most updated software needed to run your business more efficiently. You won’t have to spend thousands of dollars regularly to update databases or software, it is all there for you in the cloud. Byond’s cemetery mapping software is a fantastic example of a cloud-based management software for streamlining processes.
4) Accessibility & Accuracy
Cloud storage for cemeteries can safely and securely hold all important cemetery data without relying on physical paper copies, and it also reduces the risk of mis-filing important information. You can use search functions to find exactly what you need in only a few clicks, and ensures that records are easily accessible and shareable. Cloud storage for your cemetery is the best solution for staff who need to consult or update records on-the-go.
5) Cost-Effective & Scalable
A cost-effective solution for cemeteries, cloud storage for cemeteries eliminates the need for physical storage spaces and the maintenance of on-site servers, which is often cheaper than paying for software upgrades and maintenance. Cloud storage is also scalable, meaning that as the volume of cemetery data and records increases, cloud storage can easily be adjusted without significant upfront costs. Being cost-effective and scalable ensures that cemeteries can adapt to changes, while continuing to manage their cemetery data storage in the most efficient manner possible.
The Challenges Of Cloud Storage For Cemeteries
While we just covered many of the fantastic benefits you get from cloud software and storage, you should also be aware of the challenges. One area that you need to be mindful of is the need for a reliable internet connection. A reliable connection with fast speed and appropriate bandwidth is essential for utilising cloud storage for cemeteries. If your current provider experiences regular downtime this means a lack of access to your cemetery data. You may need to consider switching providers or looking for a back-up solution in case of an outage.
Implementing Cloud Storage For Cemeteries
With Byond by OpusXenta, you can always use our ‘cloud’ based service products to conduct all the important aspects of your business. We understand the needs of the sector, and we are constantly working to create more innovative solutions, products, and services to help our clients manage their operations better, so they can deliver their services more efficiently and effectively.
Your business deals with families at their most vulnerable, that’s why at OpusXenta, we believe your technology should be as simple and streamlined as possible, so you can focus on delivering a service that is empathetic, supportive, and compassionate.
We take great pride in providing our clients with an impactful range of technology solutions to support the funeral industry. We are always here to assist you with understanding cloud storage for cemeteries, so you can get the most out of our cloud products and solutions for all your cemetery data.