How a Municipal Cemetery in Ontario Modernized Operations Across Six Cemeteries
The Challenge
The municipality of Arran-Elderslie in Ontario, Canada, was managing records for multiple cemeteries using paper maps and an Excel-based database. Staff needed a more efficient way to access records, manage burial inventory, and improve the accuracy of cemetery information.
To find the right long-term solution, the municipality issued a formal Request for Proposal (RFP), inviting several cemetery software providers to compete for the project.
The municipality needed a partner that could:
- Digitize decades of cemetery records
- Convert paper maps into accurate GIS-based cemetery maps
- Consolidate mapping and records into a single system
- Improve accessibility for staff across multiple locations
- Provide a secure, cloud-based platform that could support future growth
The Solution
Following a competitive evaluation process, Arran-Elderslie selected CIMS Professional.
The project began in 2022 with four municipal cemeteries. Ramaker’s team first transformed the cemetery’s paper maps into detailed GIS-based digital maps. Once mapping was completed, the GIS data was integrated with the municipality’s existing Excel records to create a comprehensive digital database.
By combining mapping and records into one cloud-based platform, staff gained access to accurate, centralized information that could be maintained and updated in real time.
After implementation and training, the municipality successfully went live with CIMS Professional in December 2023.
The Results
The project delivered significant operational improvements for cemetery staff:
- Four cemeteries converted from paper maps to GIS-based digital mapping
- Existing Excel records integrated into a centralized cemetery management system
- Cloud-based access to cemetery data and mapping information
- Improved record accuracy and accessibility
- Streamlined management of cemetery inventory and operations
Most importantly, the municipality’s confidence in the platform continued to grow after implementation.
Expanding Beyond the Original Project
Following the successful deployment of CIMS Professional, the municipality expanded its relationship with Ramaker and engaged the team to complete the same modernization process for two additional municipal cemeteries.
What began as a four-cemetery project ultimately grew into a six-cemetery partnership, demonstrating the scalability of the CIMS platform and the value it delivered to municipal cemetery operations.
Why Municipal Cemeteries Choose CIMS
Municipal cemetery departments face unique challenges, including aging records, paper maps, limited staff resources, and increasing public expectations for accurate information.
CIMS Professional helps municipalities:
- Digitize and preserve historical records
- Replace paper maps with GIS-based cemetery mapping
- Centralize information across multiple cemeteries
- Access data securely through a cloud-based platform
- Improve operational efficiency and long-term record management
Today, this Ontario municipality continues to use CIMS Professional to manage and maintain cemetery information across its growing network of cemeteries.
See why municipalities across North America trust CIMS Professional to modernize cemetery operations. Request a demo today!