Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Table of Contents
1. Executive summary ...................................................................................................2
1.1. Background.................................................................................................................. 2
1.2. Overview of Report ...................................................................................................... 2
1.3. Key Findings & Recommendations ................................................................................ 3
2. Introduction ..............................................................................................................8
2.1. Why now? ................................................................................................................... 8
2.2. History of Green-Wood ................................................................................................ 8
3. Assessment Methodology ..........................................................................................9
4. Recommendations ...................................................................................................11
Phase 1: Pre-Visit ............................................................................................................11
Phase 2: Arrival ..............................................................................................................13
Phase 3: Orientation .......................................................................................................14
Phase 4: Engagement .....................................................................................................15
Phase 5: Post-Visit ..........................................................................................................17
Staff & Infrastructure ......................................................................................................18
Conclusion ......................................................................................................................24
APPENDIX .............................................................................................................................. 26
1
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1. Background
In 2025, Green-Wood Cemetery will open a new community space called The Green-
Wood Center. The arrival of the Center marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of
Green-Wood; its location outside of the gated cemetery, across the street on the corner
of 5th Avenue and 25th street, signifies Green-Wood’s increasing emphasis on broader
engagement with the people and communities that surround and beyond.
Information for this report was compiled from detailed feedback points, providing an in-
depth understanding of visitor interactions with various aspects of Green-Wood. This
assessment ranges from amenities and wayfinding to post-visit engagement. It
emphasizes the areas of action required for the Cemetery to realize its goals of becoming
a leading cultural institution and outlines a pathway for growth, deepening Green-
Wood’s engagement with the community it serves.
This report presents an audit of Green-Wood, a historic cemetery in Brooklyn, New York. The
audit identified five key Objectives, or opportunity areas for improvement:
1. ENHANCE AWARENESS
2. INSPIRE CURIOSITY AND WONDER WITH NEW VISITORS
3. ENHANCE VISITOR ENGAGEMENT
4. FOSTER ONGOING ENGAGEMENT AFTER A VISIT
5. DEVELOP STAFF AND INVEST INTERNAL SYSTEMS AND COMMUNICATION
The report is structured around these five key areas of opportunity. These areas cover
visitor experience, including the pre-visit, arrival, orientation, engagement, and post-visit
experience, as well as staff and infrastructure considerations.
Each area of opportunity is addressed with a set of objectives, tactics, and actions designed
to enhance the visitor experience at Green-Wood. For instance, the audit revealed the need
for a more cohesive visual communication strategy. To address this, an objective was set to
develop a strategic approach to communication and visual signage. The corresponding
tactics include the creation of an internal visual communications staff position and the
commissioning of a signage study. The actions then outline the specific steps to be taken,
such as the development of a comprehensive signage program and the revamp of the
Green-Wood website.
2
actions, Green-Wood can further its mission of becoming a leading cultural institution and
active cemetery.
The audit identified five key areas of opportunity that, when addressed, could significantly
enhance the visitor experience at Green-Wood. While the cemetery already offers a unique
and enriching visitor experience, there are aspects that could be further improved. One such
opportunity is to deepen engagement with surrounding neighborhoods, which could
significantly enhance Green-Wood's visibility and standing in the local community. The audit
also highlighted the potential for a more unified and cohesive approach to visual
communication strategies, which would provide a seamless and intuitive experience for
visitors.
3
relationship with neighboring areas and enhance its reputation and visibility within
the local community.
The Green-Wood Cemetery is poised to expand its engagement visitors through the
opening of its EWC. This pivotal moment underscores the importance of well-
planned communication strategies. A strategic approach will effectively convey
Green-Wood's diverse offerings, from its historical artifacts and ecological landscape
to educational programs and events, to both current and potential visitors. It will also
unify Green-Wood's brand across various platforms, providing a cohesive narrative
that resonates with its audience. This investment in strategic communication will
enhance Green-Wood's visibility, foster deeper community engagement, and further
its mission as a leading cultural institution.
The audit identified a need for a more cohesive visual communication strategy. To
address this, the report outlines and explores a number of actions including the
introduction of a new internal visual communications position. Other
recommendations include commissioning a signage study that will lead to the
development of a new cross-campus signage program that integrates a
comprehensive set of wayfinding elements such as signs, maps, landmarks, written
information, information counters, and other information aids such as acoustic
wayfinding aids, for visitors who are blind or have impaired sight. The goal of this is
to implement a visitor-centric signage and wayfinding system that ties the EWC to
the cemetery and enhances Green-Wood’s visibility.
By making certain strategic actions, Green-Wood can not only improve its visibility
and visitor engagement, but also foster a sense of community pride and
participation. This strategic approach to visual communication is a key component in
Green-Wood's journey towards enhancing its visitor experience and forging its role
as a leader among cultural cemeteries.
4
Opportunity area 3: DEEPEN VISITOR ENGAGEMENT DURING THE VISIT
Engaging with visitors during their visit to the Cemetery is of paramount importance
in the context of cultural and destination tourism. The true value of Green-Wood’s
unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and artistic appeal can only be
fully appreciated when visitors are actively engaged during their visit. Active
engagement not only enhances the visitor's experience but also fosters a deeper
understanding and appreciation of the site's significance. This can be achieved
through various means such as accessible tours, warranted amenities, even digital
applications. By creating a more immersive and interactive experience, Green-Wood
can transform a simple visit into a journey of discovery and learning. This not only
enriches the visitor's experience but also promotes repeat visits and positive word-
of-mouth, both of which are crucial for the sustainability of cultural destinations like
Green-Wood Cemetery.
The audit revealed that while amenities at Green-Wood are present, they could be
improved and better highlighted. Certain facilities like baby-changing stations, and
WiFi/cell data connectivity are lacking, which limits convenience and access for a
segment of visitors. Moreover, the entrance/exit signs, while informative, has been
described by many as too wordy, which reduces their effect, especially among non-
English speakers. To address these, the audit outlines a number of investments that
GW can make over both the short and long-term.
Additionally, this audit explores ways in which Green-Wood can reorient staff
engagement with visitors. This includes replacing existing security booths with ones
that accommodate both a security staff person and a visitor experience volunteer or
paid staff and pairing all security patrols with visitor experience staff when patrolling
the grounds of the cemetery and engaging with visitors.
5
Opportunity area 4: FOSTER ENGAGEMENT AFTER A VISIT
Integrating post-visit needs into the planning or visit stages of a visit can also
enhance the visitor experience. For example, partnerships with neighborhood cafes
and restaurants can be promoted on the website, app, and printed guides or maps.
An email capture system across multiple touchpoints can help build a database for
future engagement, while a segmented email marketing strategy can deliver
personalized and relevant content to different visitor groups.
Listening to and incorporating visitor feedback is also essential. Regular reviews and
updates of processes, staff roles, and procedures based on visitor feedback can
ensure that Green-Wood continues to meet evolving visitor expectations. A review &
response strategy using technology can facilitate prompt visitor response with
consistent messaging. A new volunteer “visitor response” position can act as the
“front-line” responder, alleviating “low-level” busy-work from paid staff.
6
Opportunity area 5: STAFF AND INVEST INTERNAL SYSTEMS AND COMMUNICATION
The audit revealed that an unnecessary distinction between The Green-Wood Cemetery
and The Green-Wood Historic Fund constrains the attitudes and behaviors of some staff.
The attitudes that drive this perception can sometimes hinder effective collaboration,
causes redundancies, and prevents a unified approach to visitor experience.
The report recommends removing these divisions, unifying staff, and fostering a
collaborative working environment. Other actions include minimizing the use of the legal
names of each entity and replacing them with one unified ‘Green-Wood’ brand,
celebrating visitor-centric staff and achievements, implementing a staff shadowing
program where colleagues gain a “day in the life of” perspective of their colleagues’
duties, and auditing position descriptions, and implementing shared goals and
performance metrics.
The organization seems to be facing challenges in managing its services efficiently and
effectively due to the use of multiple, sometimes overlapping, systems, and the lack of
standard operating procedures. Addressing these issues could further enhance Green-
Wood's service delivery and improve their operations.
The current visitor experience, while good in many respects, presents several areas that
could be enhanced for improved satisfaction and engagement. These are tied primarily
to the cemetery's internal systems and processes, its service infrastructure, information
and navigation, staff knowledge and ability, and general visitor engagement.
7
2. INTRODUCTION
2.1. Why now?
Green-Wood Cemetery's increasing number of lot holders and visitors, along with the
impending scarcity of burial land, led to the creation of a strategic plan in 2019. This
plan, aimed at ensuring Green-Wood's sustainability and alignment with community
needs, has led to the evaluation of the cemetery’s visitor experience four years later
through a comprehensive audit.
The Art of Consulting, LLC (AoC), a specialist in the visitor experience of cultural
destinations, conducted the audit. The audit, structured in three phases, assessed
internal systems and website usability, collected extensive visitor data, and identified
target audiences through a visitor journey mapping workshop. It served as an
organizational health check-up, evaluating Green-Wood's effectiveness as both an active
cemetery and cultural institution. The audit's goal was to enhance visitor engagement
and satisfaction by assessing the current visitor experience, identifying improvement
areas, and providing actionable recommendations. It focused on how Green-Wood
could improve the visitor experience across its operations, including the forthcoming
Education Welcome Center (EWC).
Green-Wood, one of the first rural cemeteries in the United States, spans a vast 478-
acre expanse. It houses historical artifacts, mature trees, and over 100,000 monuments
that together weave a tapestry of culture and history. Over time, it has evolved from
being primarily a burial ground to a key cultural institution and green space serving the
local community.
The national significance of Green-Wood Cemetery was recognized when it was listed
on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997 and designated as a National Historic
Landmark in 2006. Among its landmarks is the Weir Greenhouse, the last surviving
Victorian greenhouse in New York City, located across from Green-Wood’s Main
Entrance, which is currently being transformed into a new Education and Welcome
Center (EWC)
Today, Green-Wood is not only a cemetery but also a vibrant cultural destination. It is
home to over 570,000 permanent residents and holds detailed burial records tracing the
past of tens of millions of Americans. Its historical, artistic, architectural, and
8
environmental significance, along with its public programs and biodiversity, contribute
to its growing reputation as a singular cultural institution. As part of its commitment to
enhancing the visitor experience, Green-Wood has undertaken a comprehensive audit
to identify areas of improvement and opportunities for growth.
Green-Wood's most recent strategic plan (GWC Strategic Plan 2020 – 2022) charts a
path to the future that builds on organizational strengths and ensures that growth
adheres to the evolving needs of its many communities, including burial lot holders,
Brooklyn neighbors, local, national, and international visitors, and the professional fields
with which Green-Wood is associated. The audit and the establishment of the EWC are
significant steps towards realizing this strategic vision.
3. ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
This audit was a comprehensive evaluation of the cemetery's visitor experience, conducted
in three distinct phases. The first phase involved an assessment of Green-Wood's internal
systems, procedures, and website usability. This included a User Experience/User Interface
(UI/UX) evaluation of green-wood.com, focusing on the site's accessibility, ease of use, and
effectiveness in providing necessary information and facilitating online transactions.
The second phase centered on data collection, gathering over 520,000 data points from
1,366 visitors through various methods such as in-person surveys, focus groups, online
9
surveys, online reviews, observation, and staff interviews. This data was analyzed to
understand visitor demographics, needs, expectations, behaviors, sentiments, and
satisfaction levels, providing an extensive understanding of the local visitor experience at
Green-Wood cemetery.
The final phase was to identify Green-Wood’s target audiences and develop a deep
understanding of their needs and expectations through a visitor journey mapping workshop.
The audit methodology combined both quantitative and qualitative data, leading to a
comprehensive understanding of the visitor experience. It identified operational strengths
and challenges, providing a roadmap for Green-Wood's future growth and development. The
audit covered all facets of the visitor experience, including pre-visit, during visit, and post-
visit stages.
Pre-Visit Experience
Evaluate the effectiveness of marketing and communication efforts in
reaching potential visitors.
A User Experience/User Interface (UI/UX) assessment of green-wood.com
that evaluated the site’s Accessibility, Ease, and Effectiveness of the
website in providing necessary information and facilitating online
transactions (e.g., ticket purchases, event registrations).
An examination of the clarity and accessibility of information related to
planning a visit (e.g., hours of operation, directions, parking, amenities).
Post-Visit Experience
An assessment of follow-up procedures and communications and efforts
to encourage repeat visits or further engagement.
Analysis of feedback received from visitors through in-person intercept
survey
Measurement of the level of visitor engagement on social media and
other digital platforms post-visit.
10
4. RECOMMENDATIONS
Phase 1: Pre-Visit
OBJECTIVE: INCREASE AWARENESS
The ‘Visit’ page of green-wood.com is one of the most visited pages of the site, earning 14%
of site traffic in 2022. However, the rich resources offered on this heavily trafficked page are
often buried behind a clickable link. The site needs to be reoriented from what could be
called “organization-centric” to a site that is user-centric.
11
directions. One example of this are Light Standards Program that
facilitates the installation of light standard banners hung vertically from
area light poles, utilizing the existing infrastructure to display vibrant
GW graphics, logos, text, or imagery.
Action 6. Collaborate with the MTA and State of NY to co-brand the R Subway
station @ 25th and 4th as "Green-Wood" for increased visibility.
Action 7. Install a neighborhood directional signage program along corridors
leading to each entrance gate, guiding visitors and raising awareness.
Action 8. Install Perimeter fence banners along Green-Wood’s ~4,500 linear-foot
perimeter fence. The extension of GW’s signage program to its
perimeter fence and adjacent streets serves as eye-catching displays
that capture the attention of and provide directional information to
passersby, residents, and visitors transiting to/from nearby subway
stations, thereby strengthening awareness of the institution's presence
and activities. This strategic investment aligns with Green-Wood's
mission of providing leading cultural experiences and positions it well to
handle the forecasted surge in annual visitation.
Action 11. Claim Business Listings: Ensure that Green-Wood has claimed its
business listings on platforms such as Trip Advisor, Yelp, ILOVENY, and
other 3rd party sites that visitors source when planning a visit to Green-
Wood. This allows GW to control the information that is displayed, such
as hours of operation, contact information, and official descriptions.
Specific tasks associated with owning such a page include: 1) monitoring
and responding to reviews regularly; 2) encouraging reviews; 3)
ensuring pages are up to date; 4) refresh pages regularly with high-
12
quality images that reflect seasonal programming; and 5) promoting
events and news.
Phase 2: Arrival
The arrival experience at the Green-Wood Cemetery is a critical component of the visitor
journey. It's the first physical interaction visitors have with the organization, setting the tone
for the entire visit and significantly impacting overall impressions. This is particularly
important for the 28% of first-time visitors. The arrival experience also plays a crucial role in
making all visitors, regardless of their mode of transport, feel comfortable and welcomed. It
serves as an opportunity to orient visitors, providing them with the necessary information to
navigate the space, and reinforcing the cemetery's brand image and values. A positive arrival
experience can encourage the 73% of repeat visitors to stay longer and explore more.
Furthermore, considering that a significant proportion of visitors plan their visit on the same
day or within the week, the arrival experience can support their planning process, enhancing
their overall visit. In essence, investing in the arrival experience is about creating a positive,
welcoming, and informative first impression that enhances visitor satisfaction and retention.
The arrival of the new Education and Welcome Center (EWC) heralds the potential to
provide visitors with a high-impact arrival experience, particularly for those who arrive by
foot or wheelchair (42%), by bike (6%), by bus (3%), or by subway (27%). Moreover, the
timeline of the EWC allows Green-Wood to activate the public spaces between the main
gate and the EWC building, bridging the gap between the two and showcasing the ecological
wonder and beauty of the cemetery. The following strategies and recommendations aim to
encourage broader engagement and cohesion among the EWC, surrounding public spaces,
and the cemetery.
Action 12. Extend Green-Wood iconic Gothic-Revival style to the exterior fencing,
signage, facade, fenestration, pattern, materials, and textures of the
new EWC and between the public space between the EWC and the main
gate. This will not only establish a visual link between the two
properties and reinforce Green-Wood's unique identity but will likely
drive traffic to both locations.
Action 13. Explore the feasibility of installing a twin-engine, pole signage arch over
the entrance avenue, visually unifying the 500-acre cemetery and the
visitor center.
Action 14. Install program posters outside the gates of the cemetery:
a. Year one: Design, install, and maintain double-sided scrolling light
boxes adjacent to the main gate and across the street at the EWC.
Rotate posters showcasing seasonal program highlights and a
detailed map of the cemetery.
13
b. Year two: Extend the installation of double-sided scrolling light
boxes to each of the remaining entrance gates (9th Ave., 4th
Avenue, Fort Hamilton) for continuous activation.
Phase 3: Orientation
The orientation phase of a visitor's journey is a critical moment that sets the tone for their
entire experience. For a vast space like Green-Wood Cemetery, which spans 500 acres,
effective orientation upon entry is even more crucial. It's not just about making a positive
first impression, but also about providing clear and helpful guidance to visitors as they
navigate the expansive grounds. This is particularly important considering the diverse needs
and expectations of visitors, as reflected in their sentiments about the availability and utility
of signage and wayfinding: while 43% felt that the current provisions met their expectations
and 23% felt they exceeded expectations, 4% felt their expectations were not met.
Furthermore, 30% indicated they didn't need the existing signage or wayfinding, which could
suggest that different visitors require different levels of guidance. By focusing on and
improving the orientation of visitors, Green-Wood can ensure that all visitors, regardless of
their familiarity with the space or their individual needs, feel welcomed, comfortable, and
well-guided during their visit. This can enhance the overall visitor experience, encouraging
longer stays, repeat visits, and positive word-of-mouth. Doing so may be particularly
important for those unfamiliar with Green-Wood like the 47% of first-time visitors who did
not plan their visit to the Cemetery. Finally, the orientation process contributes to the
overall brand image of Green-Wood, serving as a platform to showcase the cemetery's
identity and values. In essence, a well-executed orientation phase can significantly influence
visitor satisfaction, the duration of their stay, and their likelihood of recommending Green-
Wood to others.
14
creating an immersive experience that showcases the cemetery's rich
history and cultural offerings.
Action 17. Collaborate with the security division to establish a protocol for regular
sharing of visitor experience summaries, enabling effective corrective
measures. Ensure that all Green-Wood department heads attend
morning formations to cascade timely information throughout the corps
of officer guards, as well as to participate in promotion and award
ceremonies. This collaborative approach will enhance communication
between the Visitor Experience function and security, facilitating the
necessary information exchange to address visitor behavior and
practices promptly.
Action 18. Invest in revenue-generating orientation amenities, such as a high-
quality, multi-page Guide to a Cultural Cemetery (i.e., visitor guide), can
provide significant benefits for Green-Wood Cemetery. This approach
not only enhances the visitor experience by providing valuable
information and guidance, but also creates an additional revenue
stream that can support the cemetery's operations and initiatives. A
suggested donation of $3 for the guide is a modest amount that most
visitors would be willing to contribute, especially considering the value
they receive in return. Furthermore, the guide itself serves as a tangible
memento of their visit, potentially encouraging repeat visits and word-
of-mouth recommendations. It's a win-win situation: visitors receive a
valuable resource that enhances their experience, and Green-Wood
receives additional funding and a powerful tool for visitor engagement.
Action 19. Implement a Green-Wood Visitor Concierge Program to provide well-
trained volunteers who act as concierges, facilitating exceptional visitor
experiences and bridging the gap between EWC-based staff, volunteers,
and cemetery staff.
Phase 4: Engagement
OBJECTIVE: ENHANCE VISITOR ENGAGEMENT
Engaging with visitors during their visit to the cemetery is central to Green-Wood meeting its
mission. As a historical and cultural landmark, Green-Wood offers a unique blend of natural
beauty, historical significance, and artistic appeal. However, the true value of these
attributes can only be fully appreciated when visitors are actively engaged during their visit.
From staff and visitor feedback, it is evident that amenities at Green-Wood while present
could be improved and better highlighted. Certain facilities like baby-changing stations and
Wi-Fi and cell phone connectivity are lacking, limiting convenience and access for a segment
15
of visitors. Moreover, the signage system, while informative, is often described as too wordy,
leading to confusion, especially among non-English speakers.
Additionally, the visitor experience audit revealed the need for a dedicated accessibility
audit of the cemetery. This audit should focus on both the programmatic and physical
aspects of accessibility, using the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant
resources available such as the Smithsonian Guidelines for Accessible Design that may guide
GW in implementing such a program across a vast space that includes interior and exterior
places. The audit should identify any barriers to access and provide recommendations for
readily achievable solutions that ensure an equivalent experience for all visitors.
Action 20. Improve the visibility to existing amenities such as water bottle filling
stations, bathrooms, and baby-changing tables through increased
signage, in the GWC app, and identification on maps.
Action 21. The GWC app could be improved to serve as a more comprehensive
planning and visit aid. Improvements warranted include a mobile-
friendly map of the cemetery with GPS-enabled “you are here”
navigation feature, highlighted tour routes, a visitor feedback feature,
and upcoming public programs.
Action 22. Improve perceptions of safety through increased cell phone
connectivity. The environment, admired for its tranquil beauty, contains
some areas that feel unsafe or that are challenging to navigate due to
the size of the site, impacting the overall perception of the cemetery.
Explore participation in Brooklyn’s mesh network as a cost-effective and
more immediate method of extending cell phone data and/or Wi-Fi
connectivity through the cemetery.
Action 23. Replace existing security booths with ones that accommodate both a
security staff person and a visitor experience volunteer or staff.
Action 24. Pair all security patrols with visitor experience staff (e.g., volunteers)
when patrolling the grounds of the cemetery and engaging with visitors.
16
Phase 5: Post-Visit
OBJECTIVE: FOSTER ONGOING ENGAGEMENT AFTER A VISIT
The audit identified a gap in ongoing engagement with visitors after their visit. While some
visitors share their experiences on social media or write reviews, these efforts are largely
unprompted. Between June 29, 2022 and June 28, 2023 Green-Wood’s Instagram, Facebook,
and Twitter collectively earned 5.2M mentions, but only 24% of which included words
associated with a reviewing a visit, like "visit","visited","saw","went", “watched” "spent",
"toured" or "viewed".
Further, and to aid in the review of an expected increase in digital communication from
visitors, Green-Wood could develop a new volunteer 'visitor response' position within the
new EWC, that acts as the 'front-line' responder, alleviating paid staff from such
administrative tasks so that they can focus on more complex projects germane to their
position.
Finally, The Art of Consulting has designed, and is providing along with this report, a new
visit count tracking tool. This tool will help mangers more readily observe visitation patterns,
and understand the conditions affecting visitation patterns, meaning that they will be able to
understand the causes of heretofore unexpected spikes in visitation, as well as track the
efficacy of public programs.
By focusing on these actions, Green-Wood aims to enhance the visitor experience after their
visit, fostering ongoing engagement and building stronger connections with its visitors.
Action 25. Implement a visitor email capture system across multiple touchpoints,
such as on-site sign-up forms, online booking platforms, and post-visit
surveys. Offer incentives, such as exclusive content or discounts, to
encourage visitors to provide their email address.
TACTIC 10: LISTEN TO AND INCORPORATE THE VOICE OF THE VISITOR IN DECISIONS THAT
IMPACT THEM
17
Action 26. Invest in a Voice of the Customer (VoC) platform that integrates post-
visit feedback from email, surveys, online reviews, and social media.
Leading tools include Medallia, Qualtrics Customer, and Clarabridge.
Action 27. Use VoC data to integrate new knowledge more readily into the
planning and design of visitor services and amenities.
Action 28. Develop a new volunteer “visitor response” position that acts as the
“front-line” responder, alleviating “low-level” busy-work from paid staff.
Action 29. Conduct spot surveys to gather quantitative data on visitor satisfaction,
preferences, and demographics.
Action 30. Deploy a new visit count tracking system to notice visitation patterns
more readily like causes of unexpected spikes in visitation, and the
efficacy of public programs.
In addition to staff training, Green-Wood may consider expanding and professionalizing its
volunteer program. Volunteers are not just helpers; they are ambassadors for Green-Wood,
representing a significant resource for the forthcoming EWC.
Green-Wood's current IT systems, integral to the visitor experience, have been implemented
incrementally over the years without a cohesive strategy. This has led to inefficiencies and
overspending, negatively impacting the visitor experience. To improve, Green-Wood should
consider consolidating communication channels, aligning website and mobile app
functionalities, implementing standard operating procedures, and adopting an integrated
CRM/POS system.
18
Of the 35 visitor touchpoints that Green-Wood's staff use and manage, 28 are IT systems and
platforms that serve an instrumental function in the delivery of services to its visitors (see
Table 1 of the Appendix). As of the winter of 2023, staff, contractors, and volunteers across
Green-Wood managed more than 35 visitor touchpoint transactions. These teams used a
myriad of analog and digital systems to provide services to visitors.
19
Green-Wood Cemetery's current IT systems, integral to the visitor experience, have been
implemented incrementally over the years without a cohesive strategy. This approach has
led to inefficiencies, duplicated efforts, and overspending, negatively impacting the visitor
experience. Research underscores the direct correlation between employee experience and
customer experience, suggesting that improvements in the former can lead to significant
enhancements in the latter. For Green-Wood, this means consolidating communication
channels, aligning website and mobile app functionalities, implementing standard operating
procedures, and adopting an integrated CRM/POS system
TACTIC 13: PROVIDE ACCESS TO TRAINING AND OTHER RESOURCES THAT EMPOWER STAFF
TO DELIVERY BEST-IN-CLASS SERVICE TO CEMETERY STAKEHOLERS
Action 32. Develop Staff Training Programs: Effective staff interaction is crucial for
positive visitor experiences (Pritchard, Havitz, & Howard, 1999).
Developing staff training programs that unify GW’s two corporate
20
organizations and provide staff the tools skills and abilities to effectively
deliver improved visitor relations. Introduce customer service training in
the form of empathy and de-escalation training and reinforce such
training regularly.
Action 33. Expand and professionalize GW’s volunteer program.
The fundamental role of a visitor service function at a cultural cemetery like Green-Wood, is
to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all visitors. This involves providing
information and guidance, ensuring accessibility and comfort, and facilitating meaningful
engagement with the site's historical and cultural significance. Unique to cemeteries, this
function also has the significant responsibility of facilitating conversations and education
about death, mourning, and cultural practices around death and dying. This unique
opportunity allows the cemetery to serve as a space for reflection, understanding, and
dialogue about these often-taboo subjects, fostering a deeper connection between visitors
and the universal human experiences of loss and remembrance.
The assessment found that Green-Wood needs to adopt a holistic approach towards visitor
experience. This involves understanding that a visitor's journey commences prior to their
physical arrival at cemetery or EWC and addressing touchpoints within the pre-visit stage of
the visitor journey. For many, a visit to Green-Wood begins online either from a classroom,
around a family table, or on a phone on the subway.
Action 34. Establish simplified cemetery hours. Communicate these hours through
a personable voice of the Green-Wood institution, e.g., “Green-Wood
Cemetery warmly welcomes visitors year-round, free of charge. Our
operating hours are simple: we open one hour after sunrise and close
one hour before sunset. This approach, aligning with the day's natural
light, ensures public safety and convenience for our visitors. Please
check your preferred app for today's sunrise and sunset times before
planning your visit.”
Action 35. From time to time solicit the timely input of visitors when designing
programs and physical spaces at Green-Wood. Doing so not only
ensures better fit and resonance with GW’s audiences but fosters good
will in the community. And may lead to unanticipated donations.
21
Action 36. Implement a new volunteer-staffed call center at the EWC; Delegate
front-line customer service tasks like answer general inquires,
transferring calls, responding to email, receiving reservation holders,
and accommodating general daily walk-in visitors, paid staff will be
freed up to focus on more complex projects that require their
specialized skills and expertise. This not only maximizes the use of our
resources but also allows Green-Wood to deliver more value to its
stakeholders.
Action 37. Implement user-centric design principles across all visitor touchpoints,
from the website to in-person services. Implementing user-centric
design principles is essential for Green-Wood to enhance the overall
visitor experience and meet evolving needs and expectations. Specific
examples of user-centered design methods that GW can implement at
little, or no cost include:
a. User Research: build on the spring survey with occasional spot
surveys conducted during summer, fall and winter.
b. Usability Testing: This involves testing Green-Wood’s services with
real visitors to identify any issues or areas for improvement. For
instance, staff could conduct usability testing on its ticket
reservation process for its public programs. This could involve
observing a group of test users as they go through the process of
finding a program they're interested in, reserving a ticket, and
receiving confirmation of their reservation.
c. Iterative Design: This is a process of continually refining and
improving GW’s services based on user feedback and testing. For
example, staff could perform a series of iterations on a new signage
program before the final elements are produced and installed.
Establishing an internal design team within Green-Wood’s new Office of Visitor Experience
would be a strategic move that offers several benefits. This person would ensure a
consistent and cohesive aesthetic across all physical and digital touchpoints, from signage
and buildings to promotional materials for public programs, reinforcing Green-Wood's brand
identity and enhancing the visitor experience. The efficiency of an in-house person would
lead to faster turnaround times for design projects, which is particularly beneficial for the
dynamic nature of public programs. While there's an upfront cost to establish an in-house
position, it can prove more cost-effective in the long run by saving on the costs of hiring
external agencies or freelancers for each project, or worse yet having ad hoc signs created
22
spontaneously without attention to GW’s standards. But probably most important is the in-
house person’s ability to take a strategic approach to design, aligning it with Green-Wood's
overall goals and strategies, and designing with the visitor journey in mind. This includes
creating a unified aesthetic for signage and materials, which plays a crucial role in guiding
visitors through Green-Wood's expansive campus and promoting its public programs.
With a long-standing tradition and societal significance dating back to 1838, Green-Wood
has grown into a cherished national institution. However, its successful evolution and
diversification over the last 26 years have inadvertently led to a subtle yet counter-
productive internal division between the staff of The Green-Wood Historic Fund and The
Green-Wood Cemetery. Established 159 years after the Cemetery, the Historic Fund operates
as a separate corporate entity, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, distinct from the historic
cemetery, a 501(c)(13) nonprofit mutual cemetery company. Different mandates, funding
sources, and programmatic priorities inherent to these two legal structures have given rise
to an "us vs. them" paradigm among staff. This unfortunate divide has intensified over time,
at times creating a counter-productive environment that stands in stark contrast to an
otherwise harmonious institutional culture. As the cemetery nears its burial capacity, the
urgency to preserve it as a crucial ecological and social resource becomes more apparent.
Although the distinct legal structures of the entities must be maintained, the faux divide that
has emerged between the two bodies of staff doesn’t. It is time to erase this artificial divide
and foster a unified, collaborative working environment that aligns with Green-Wood's
evolving mission.
Action 38. Introduce a new annual staff award that acknowledges and celebrates
the staff person who has demonstrated the greatest effort in unifying
the two legacy divisions of Green-Wood (Historic Fund and Green-Wood
Cemetery. A potential name of the new award may be The Moylan
Award, in honor of Richard Moylan’s 40+ years of service to the Green-
Wood Cemetery. Doing so can serve as a motivation for all staff to
contribute to the unification of Green-Wood. It would help to make the
staff feel appreciated for their efforts, reinforcing positive behaviors and
attitudes towards the change.
Action 39. Unify the Green-Wood brand, doing away with the individual names
(The Green-Wood Historic Fund" and "The Green-Wood Cemetery")
from all branding and communications. Replace with a new unified
brand that emphasizes the shared mission and values of both
organizations. The new brand should embrace the history and the
23
future of Green-Wood as a whole, instead of having two separate
identities. All communication, from internal memos to external
marketing, should use this unified branding.
Action 40. Encourage Joint Team-building Activities that involve members from
both entities. These activities can help to break down barriers and
promote better communication, collaboration, and understanding
among the staff. This could involve retreats, workshops, or even shared
community service activities that reflect the mission of Green-Wood.
Action 41. Codify shared goals and performance metrics for both entities to
encourage collaboration and unity. This would ensure that every staff
member, regardless of their 'side', works towards the same overarching
visitor-centric objectives.
Action 42. Foster cross-departmental projects or committees to building
constructive interactions between staff members by creating
opportunities for them to work together on projects or committees. For
example, a signage committee could work on developing the new
signage program, or a public outreach committee could work on
promoting the cemetery and its history to the community.
Action 43. Create a staff exchange or shadowing program that has colleagues from
one entity spending a day working with a colleague in another entity to
understand their operations better. This can improve empathy and
understanding, breaking down the "us vs them" mindset.
Conclusion
This comprehensive report presents a five-year visitor experience strategy, encapsulated in
16 key tactics and associated actions. The strategy is designed to foster ongoing
engagement, enhance visitor experiences, establish effective feedback mechanisms,
encourage visitor sharing, collect valuable data, and nurture relationships through targeted
email marketing. By implementing these strategies, Green-Wood can solidify its connection
with visitors, encourage repeat visitation, and foster positive word-of-mouth within the
community.
The execution of these strategic recommendations will not only ensure Green-Wood's long-
term sustainability but will also reinforce its position as a vital cultural institution within the
local community. This commitment to growth and evolution will enhance the visitor
experience and deepen Green-Wood's connection with the community it serves.
The actionable recommendations provided in this audit offer a pathway to a more engaging,
accessible, and satisfying visitor experience that aligns with Green-Wood's mission and
24
values. To monitor progress and maintain a commitment to continuous improvement,
regular follow-up audits are recommended.
Several actions in this report represent opportunities to generate new revenue, increase
visitation, and broaden community support. The construction timeline of the EWC provides
Green-Wood with the necessary time to plan the activation of public spaces at the
intersection of 25th ST and 5th Ave. This bridges the gap between the cemetery and the new
building, providing an opportunity to promote Green-Wood’s mission and programming
more effectively.
These strategies, along with the accompanying recommendations, aim to enhance public
perception of Green-Wood and the overall visitor experience at the Cemetery. They provide
a clear roadmap for improving arrival, visibility, engagement, and overall visitor satisfaction.
By implementing these strategies, Green-Wood can create a more cohesive and memorable
experience for visitors, thereby establishing itself as a premier cultural destination.
25
APPENDIX
System Use/Purpose Primary Audience
26
Web publishing side of an internal
Staff
Past-Perfect Online Collections Management System (Past
Perfect)
Tree Finder (Hosted by
Naturalist visitors
Esri) (Here)
This draws from the same custom
Plot owners & cemetery
Grave Finder "Kiosks" cemetery database by Huntington/Intera
visitors
as the Burial Search
Green-Wood App
Cemetery visitors
(Created and maintained Custom App
by Blue Raster)
contactus@, etc. Four staff monitor this email account General public
27
Authorize.net payment processor Donors/Members
28