What is online scheduling software?

An online scheduling software is a business tool that allows clients to book, reschedule, and cancel appointments online. When clients want to set an appointment, they will go to your business’s website, Facebook page, or anywhere the online scheduling service is supported, then choose an available time and date. Everything is handled online, significantly reducing the workload on your staff and preventing double booking and over-booking. 

Why use an online scheduling software?

Over the last two decades, running a business has changed significantly — the way we make deals has gone from a handshake and a pen to a simple click of a digital button. Times have changed dramatically, physical locations have been replaced by websites.

Perhaps the most remarkable amongst the changes is how customers approach businesses to book. The days in which staff members sat eagerly, waiting for calls with a calendar by their side, are gone and replaced with online scheduling service which makes booking easier for customers. 

Which types of businesses can benefit from an online scheduling software?

There are many uses of online scheduling software that make them ideal for small and midsize businesses (SMB). If you’re a service based business, it can benefit from Start Booking.

Start Booking might be what you’re looking for especially if your business relies on bookings — imagine being able to offer your services to customers online, let them book right then and there, and make their payment instantly.

Over the years, we’ve helped many businesses turn their online presence into money-generating, reservation booking, and customer management hubs that drive new and recurring businesses. 

What makes the best online scheduling software for SMB’s?

Online scheduling software does more than simply give clients a list of available times when they book an appointment. They also let your clients reschedule and cancel appointments without having to contact you. In addition, they make the business owners’ and managers’ jobs easier, which allows you to improve communication, centralize payments, and manage your staff. 

Here’s what you should expect from the best online scheduling software for SMB’s.

1. Flexibility

Your business is one of a kind — the best online scheduling services know that different kinds of organizations have different needs. For this reason, they let you customize how your bookings work. The best online scheduling service for SMB’s should let your client choose from a menu of services, and should be able to specify the location for their appointment, such as the services offered at their home.

2. Calendar Syncing

Most online scheduling services let you sync with a calendar, and some even require it. This way, you can view your business’s scheduled appointments together with other important information, such as a notice of when you’ll be closed for holidays or renovations.

3. Payment Processing

The best online scheduling service for SMB’s lets you collect payment at the time of booking so that you can make a deposit for an appointment or have clients pay for their services upfront. This way, your business isn’t at a total loss in case a client doesn’t show up.

4. Multiple Points of Access

Once you set up an online scheduling service, you should know how your clients will be able to access it. The best online scheduling service for SMB’s gives you options. You’ll want to embed some code into your website to display the online appointment scheduler, but you may also prefer a custom URL with all the booking tools in one place. In case you have a Facebook business page but no other website, you’ll want to be able to integrate the booking tools on Facebook. The more options the better, no matter what your situation is.

One final consideration in choosing the best online scheduling service for SMB’s is to avoid confusing them with meeting scheduling apps. Online meeting schedulers share some similarities with online scheduling services. The significant difference is that meeting apps are made specifically for meetings, whereas online scheduling services are for a variety of appointment types that may or may not include a menu of services but always require payment.

The Best Online Scheduling Software for SMB’s

Customer convenience and reduced staff workload can’t be overestimated. However, you might be wondering what makes Start Booking the best online scheduling service for SMB’s.

By offering a secure online scheduling service, Start Booking not only enables instant payment for your services but also keeps all payments secured, helping to build trust within your business.

Another reason why Start Booking is the best online scheduling service for your business is the range of devices that your customers can book from. Unlike many competing online booking apps, Start Booking is a fully responsive booking platform. This means that whether you’re booking from a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, or a desktop computer, you’re going to get a booking experience that’s convenient to use.

There are many reasons why you should use an online scheduling service. The services and benefits mentioned are highly flexible and customizable. They can be improved by making fine adjustments to meet your specific needs. In addition to this, Start Booking is easy to use. It goes a long way toward making your business run smoother and will surely benefit greatly.