Funeral homes, mortuaries and crematories have the technology available to connect family and friends that cannot attend funeral services. It's called funeral webcasting on the internet. Imagine being one of these people that loved the deceased, wants to be there but cannot attend? If they could virtually, would they appreciate this experience? Would the family of the deceased making arrangements appreciate that you as their arranger be able to do this valuable service in their time of need? Of course they would be appreciative.
The case has always been that there are family members or friends that would love to attend the memorial service and/or funeral service but just can't be there. Reasons fall into these categories:
- They live to far away and even with a flight, the time doesn't permit
- They cannot afford the travel cost
- They have work commitments and leaving their work is not possible
- They have children at home and traveling with the whole family is not possible
- They are disabled or ill and cannot travel
- And, there could be other unique circumstances that prevent attending the service.
How can you connect these people to the service via funeral webcasting? With the right equipment, network and software, you can do this yourself, get a professional videographer that has the capability, or get an established technology company specializing in funeral webcasting.
Webcasting is almost like a television broadcast except it is on the internet. The quality of broadcast can be as high as premium definition (just under HD) depending on broadband capability and equipment. Soon, webcasting in high definition will be available at a very affordable price.
Do it yourself: You need a good video camera with firewire so you can attach it to a computer for live streaming video and audio, and a wireless microphone transmitter/receiver to attach to the camera. You'll need to get the service on the internet for webcasting. All of this can be done; however, the quality is usually not as high as the family deserves. But, it is possible.
Local videographers: These professionals have great equipment and sometimes the experience to webcast. The cost can be high and prohibitive to transfer to the family; however, this is a good option for getting funeral webcasting for the family that is reliable.
Professional funeral webcasting vendors: Today, there are a few funeral service consultants, funeral website development companies and specialists in funeral webcasting offering services. Most offer a portable system that is used in just about any venue. Some also provide a fixed camera system with controller for chapel services. The range of costs vary the same as the level of service. Due diligence is advised in selection of a vendor.
The independent funeral home or mortuary was once a pillar or icon of the community. This leadership role gained by service is lost in most communities today. Webcasting services can help the death care industry with not only offering funeral webcasting, but also webcasting community events such as parades, civil meetings, school events and even messages of love from local families to their soldiers serving abroad.
Webcasting has come of age. Awareness is high both in community and now in the industry. NFDA and CCFA leaders promote and use the service. It's time you do.
