Our philosophy is simple — to constantly seek out new and better ways to serve the death care industry and our valued customers, and help them excel in today's changing times. By making this long term investment, we will inherently secure the long term investment in our own company. We are genuinely committed to partner with our customers to provide a tool to not only showcase more products and services but earn the trust and commitment from families.

A change in values coupled with difficult economic times has many consumers reassessing what a funeral service and memorialization means to them. In its wake, many death care professionals are experiencing some of the most significant changes and challenges than they have faced in decades.

Thankfully, research is showing that consumers are not necessarily looking for less expensive ways to say good-bye; they are simply looking for different and more modern ways to say good-bye. Many still embrace the long term healing effects that are synonymous with the virtues of the "Traditional Funeral", but are struggling to locate those firms that are truly listening and responding to their new needs. Sadly, some funeral directors mistakenly interpret this as a need to find cheaper caskets to better serve the public and meet their changing needs.

Feeling that needs are not being fulfilled, legislators are continuing to make sweeping changes that have facilitated the growth of a new breed of funeral providers who in turn continue to threaten the heritage and stability of the funeral profession.

What is clear is this — as consumers' needs change, funeral professionals need to change with them. It is the founding principle that has historically shaped our profession.

At Matthews, we know that the true key to success is no longer just about caskets and merchandise. Success will come in the form of an infusion of technology, marketing, product and a networked direct-to-consumers approach — an all-encompassing ongoing strategic initiative.

So why would a company that primarily manufactures hard goods for the death care profession make such an extensive, long term investment towards developing an all-encompassing software management and marketing technology solution? The answer is simple — we believe that our continued success will come from helping you with your continued success.

As a commitment to help our valued customers, we set in motion the development of the most powerful and affordable, all-encompassing solution ever conceived for death care professionals. A single solution designed to help you manage and grow your business, increase profitability and reach further than you ever thought possible.

With the revolutionary Matthews IMS, you'll get all the tools you'll ever need, free support, and you will never pay for upgrades again. And best of all, as a further commitment from Matthews through our Technology Partner Frontrunner Professional, we will continue to add new applications and features to the Matthews IMS that will surpass anything that is on the market. Simply put, the Matthews IMS could be the only solution your firm will ever need — all from a company that has a passion for the profession, has been here since 1834, and will be here tomorrow.

In keeping with our core philosophy, we will always consider looking to core expertise with third party companies whenever applicable to help grow the Matthews IMS by adding key products, services, conveniences and efficiencies to help our customers.

Below is just a few of the Strategic Alliances and integration partners who have become part of the Matthews IMS initiative.

• AfterLoss
• SympathyNet
• Wilbert Vaults
• Intera Cemetery Mapping
• Executor's Aide

In these modern times, technology can change at a moment's notice. Luckily for you, we can use that same technology to keep you up to date. Enter your email address below to sign up for our Technology Scene newsletter and receive periodic emails. You'll never feel like you're out of the loop again.

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Enhance your resume with a full training on the revolutionary Matthews IMS. A growing number of firms throughout North America are switching to the Matthews IMS to handle all of their software needs. With this program you receive Full Certification allowing you to attach the certificate on your resume giving you one more advantage over others applying for that important position.

Do you have any questions? We would love to hear from you.