NFDA Releases Global Consumer Study on Funeral Preferences

May 14, 2025

New report explores global funeral customs and consumer preferences

The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) recently released Across Borders, Across Traditions: A Global Study of Funeral Preferences, the first report to explore consumer views on funeral services and traditions across multiple continents. 


The survey gathered feedback from over 4,000 individuals in 20 countries, providing insight into how people experience funerals, select memorial options, and engage with funeral professionals. 


Summary of Key Observations 


The study found that funerals play an important role in the grieving process across cultures. Respondents expressed appreciation for personal touches, such as customized music, tributes, and ceremonies that reflect individual lives. 


Environmental awareness also emerged as a global trend, with many participants expressing interest in funeral options that minimize environmental impact. 


The data also revealed that a significant number of people have limited experience with funeral planning, suggesting an ongoing need for clear communication and educational resources from funeral providers. 


Resource for Funeral Professionals 


Along with the report, NFDA has developed a companion guide with suggestions on how funeral homes can use the survey’s insights to better meet the expectations of today’s families. 


Download the report and additional resources here. 


September 29, 2025
WAUNAKEE, Wisconsin — Sept. 29, 2025 — Tribute Technology has announced the launch of a suite of new artificial intelligence tools designed to reduce administrative work for funeral professionals, cut down on online spam, and create a smoother online experience for families. The new features — including AI-powered guest book moderation , automated event detail capture , and dynamic spam filtering for online forms — are now live on Tribute Technology websites and will be rolled out to all clients this fall. In addition, every client will receive complimentary access to the AI Tribute Obituary Writer, the company’s award-winning tool that helps create meaningful obituaries in minutes. “These advancements reflect our commitment to building technology that gives funeral homes time back while giving families a dignified and respectful online experience,” said Matt Powell, Chief Technology Officer at Tribute Technology. “By integrating AI directly into the websites our clients already use, we’re cutting out unnecessary steps, automating repetitive tasks, and freeing up staff to focus on the families they serve. All while giving families a better online experience.” Among the new features is an AI guest book and form moderation system, which automatically reviews condolence messages and submissions to screen out spam, offensive remarks, or irrelevant content. Another tool, AI event capture , identifies and pulls service details like visitation times directly into the obituary editor, reducing the need for manual entry. Tribute Technology has also introduced AI dynamic form moderation, which filters out junk inquiries before they hit a funeral home’s inbox. Together, the tools create a smoother, safer online environment while cutting down on routine tasks. To further support funeral professionals, Tribute Technology is including the AI Tribute Obituary Writer for all website clients at no additional cost. The tool drafts polished obituary text in minutes, helping funeral directors provide families with meaningful tributes without adding to their workload. “This isn’t about replacing human judgment — it’s about eliminating the mindless tasks that steal time from what matters,” said Courtney Gould Miller, President of Commercial Markets at Tribute Technology. “What sets these tools apart is the real impact for funeral homes: less time lost to spam, forms, and data entry, and more time to focus on families. We’re not using AI because it’s trendy. We’re using it because funeral homes need every advantage they can get, and if technology gives back even 30 minutes a day to spend with families, or with your own family, that time is priceless.” The tools began rolling out in August and will be available to all Tribute Technology clients this fall without the need for setup, training, or disruption. About Tribute Technology Tribute Technology empowers funeral professionals with best-in-class software solutions, serving over 9,000 providers worldwide. Its innovative offerings — including websites, marketing solutions, management software, online planning, memorial keepsakes, and payment processing — help funeral professionals save time and focus on families. To learn more, visit www.tributetech.com . Media Contact: Heather McWilliams Mierzejewski VP of Marketing Heather.mierzejewski@tributetech.com 303-717-3774
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