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Appointment Scheduling Software

Appointment Scheduling software helps businesses to manage the operations of appointment booking from originally scheduling appointments, to tracking and overseeing payment. Appointment booking systems streamline the process of scheduling clients, patients, and meetings. Booking scheduler software promotes efficiency by eliminating double-bookings and automating scheduling of recurring appointments. Appointment booking systems also allow employees to have real-time access to their and their colleagues' schedules, make changes to the system straight from the scheduling interface, and provide clients with the most suitable appointment options. Appointment management systems often include reminder tools that help ensure timely attendance of scheduled meetings and appointments. Appointment Scheduling software is related to Employee Scheduling software, Medical Scheduling software and Reservations software. Browse all available tools in the Capterra directory to find the best Appointment scheduling tool in Canada for your organization.

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Local products for Canada

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Appointment scheduling and point-of-sale (POS) solution that helps businesses with booking, payments, and team management. Learn more about Square Appointments
Running a business is hard enough, especially if someone juggling multiple tools to do different things. Square Appointments is an integrated POS that comes with online scheduling and payment processing so that teams can run the whole business from one place. It's a one-stop-shop solution that helps businesses save time and stay organized because it's personalized for businesses who run appointments. Square Appointments is now free for individuals, and really affordable for teams. Learn more about Square Appointments

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Canada Local product
Streamline appointment scheduling with Jobber—schedule, dispatch, and get paid 4x faster. Trusted by 250,000+ service pros. Learn more about Jobber
Simplify appointment scheduling with Jobber’s all-in-one platform. Whether you manage a small team or multiple crews, Jobber helps you schedule, dispatch, and organize appointments effortlessly. Automate invoicing and get paid 4x faster while keeping clients informed with automated reminders and updates. Jobber’s mobile app makes it easy to manage your schedule on the go, while our marketing tools help you bring in new business. Jobber Copilot also provides AI-powered insights to help you optimize your scheduling and grow your business. Start scheduling smarter today with Jobber! Learn more about Jobber

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
The ultimate appointment scheduling software for busy professionals. Let clients book services online 24/7 & say goodbye to no-shows! Learn more about vcita
Let clients schedule a free consultation, book and pay for services, and register for events online - 24/7 from any device. Ideal for small businesses, local service providers and consultants, vcita comes with a customizable scheduling page where clients can view your services and up-to-date availability, as well as a personal client portal. It easily connects to your website, local listing, email and social media, driving you more leads and sales. Learn more about vcita

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Peek Pro is a world-class operating software for tour and rental operators looking to increase appointments and revenue. Learn more about Peek Pro
Peek Pro is a revolutionary operating software designed for tour and rental operators looking to increase appointments and revenue. This platform offers a world class online booking experience, dynamic pricing and a comprehensive Point of Sale system. Automate hundreds of routine tasks with a robust mobile app, which supports real-time data management, check-ins, digital waivers, and detailed reporting. Boost customer satisfaction with smooth interactions throughout their journey, streamlined by features like automated text reminders, self-rescheduling options, and contactless QR code entry. Trusted by thousands of operators, Peek Pro has shown to increase business revenues by an average of 30%. Backed by an award-winning customer support team ready to assist with any needs—from solo tour guides to large-scale exhibits. Peek Pro is ready to help your business grow. Ready to see it in action? Schedule a demo with us today! Learn more about Peek Pro

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Canada Local product
Coconut’s appointments, queuing, and video banking platform makes connecting with your institution a breeze. Learn more about Coconut Software
At Coconut Software, we believe that connecting with your financial institution should feel as breezy as a day at the beach. That’s why we spent a decade building a platform that makes it effortless for customers to connect with representatives and easy for staff to deliver exceptional experiences. Our appointment scheduling, queue management, and video banking solutions are trusted by 150+ leading financial institutions across North America, including RBC, Vancity, and Rogue Credit Union. Learn more about Coconut Software

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
XOLA: Booking & ticketing platform with exclusive marketing tools for businesses with 1000+ yearly guests. Learn more about Xola
Xola is the only unified booking, sales, and marketing platform for tour and activity businesses. Manage bookings anywhere with real-time availability. Sell through the world's largest marketplaces in a few clicks. Increase online revenue with our powerful abandoned booking remarketing features and track your marketing success in Google Analytics. CC rates as low as 1.90% + 30 cents. Learn more about Xola

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Canada Local product
WellnessLiving's booking & appointment tool is easy to use and automates your business to allow you to grow your business! Learn more about WellnessLiving
WellnessLiving’s all-in-one appointment scheduling software equips you with the tools, support, & resources needed to manage & grow your business. Offering flexible business settings and dynamic tools like online booking, appointment reminders, rewards, website widgets, advanced reporting, mobile apps, and client & staff management, all on one convenient platform, to streamline business operations. It’s the only software you need to attract, convert, & retain more clients. Learn more about WellnessLiving

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Canada Local product
Appointment scheduling and business management system to help you get organized, save time, and drive revenue! Learn more about Insight
Insight Software is a fully-featured, user-friendly appointment scheduling & business management system built to help you get organized, save time, attract customers, and drive revenue. With over 30 years of industry experience, Insight has a proven history of providing the latest technology along with the expert guidance and support that businesses need. Download a free trial today! Learn more about Insight

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Streamlined, easy-to-use business text messaging platform to help you send bulk texts to customers, employees, and partners. Learn more about Textmagic
Textmagic is a business text messaging platform that simplifies bulk texting, two-way conversations, and automated notifications. With features like scheduled messaging, customizable templates, contact management, and WhatsApp integration, our product makes it easy to connect with customers, reach out to employees, or notify stakeholders. The platform allows you to optimize and track SMS campaigns in real time using intuitive reporting tools, with comprehensive insights into delivery rates, engagement, and response times. For businesses that need integration with both proprietary and third-party apps, Textmagic’s SMS API and Zapier compatibility facilitate seamless connections to websites, CRMs, and more. Whether you're focused on optimizing marketing campaigns, sending customer reminders, or streamlining internal communication, Textmagic can suit all your messaging needs with flexible pricing and reliable support, helping your business grow sustainably in the long run. Learn more about Textmagic

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Appointment scheduling solution that helps businesses manage bookings, reminders, payments, email marketing, reviews and more. Learn more about Weave
Weave is the all-in-one experience platform for small- and medium-sized healthcare businesses. From the first phone call to the final invoice and every touchpoint in between, Weave connects the entire customer journey. Weave’s software solutions transform how local healthcare providers attract, communicate with and engage patients to grow their practice. To learn more, visit getweave.com. Learn more about Weave

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Creates custom-built field service management, work order management and scheduling systems for field service businesses. Learn more about Less Paper
Less Paper Co. creates custom-built field service management, work order management and scheduling systems to help field service businesses become more efficient in the office and the field. Because we custom build every system to each specific clients needs we can offer all of the features that you want and need in a work order system that some of our competitors can't. Learn more about Less Paper

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Online appointment scheduling software built specifically for home service businesses. Learn more about Zenbooker
Online booking system built just for local home service providers. Zenbooker is completely customizable so you can tailor your online booking page to your specific business and needs. Whether you're in the office or in the field, Zenbooker makes it easy to manage your schedule, assign jobs to team members, and accept online bookings from your website. Learn more about Zenbooker

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
PlanningPME is an appointment scheduling solution. It allows you to manage resources, tasks, customers, interventions and projects. Learn more about PlanningPME
The PlanningPME appointment scheduling tool can be fully customized, used by more than 5000 companies. Small and medium-sized businesses and large groups already trust it! Use a solution that adapts to your needs. Manage your employees' schedules efficiently. Wherever you are, share and assign tasks in real time. Plan events with precision. Organize time off and other absences. Get more visibility into your calendar, build dedicated integrations with Google Calendar & Excel.Free 30-day trial. Learn more about PlanningPME

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Streamline your operations with EZnet Scheduler! Highly customizable, cost-effective, and scalable with IntelliVu™ and two-way SMS. Learn more about EZnet Scheduler
Discover how EZnet Scheduler, a robust, highly customizable, and cost-effective, high-value scheduling tool, can streamline your business operations to peak efficiency with our cutting-edge scheduling technology. Featuring the intuitive IntelliVu™ digital job board and dynamic two-way SMS capabilities, EZnet Scheduler enhances client communication and effectively reduces no-shows. Highly customizable from the start, if you need additional customization, we’ll adapt our system to perfectly fit your specific operational needs. This scalable and cost-effective scheduling platform integrates seamlessly into your existing workflows, enabling you to optimize resource management and maximize operational success. Schedule your FREE demo today to experience the full capabilities of EZnet Scheduler and transform how you manage your time and appointments. https://www.eznetscheduler.com/Calendar/EZnetDemo Learn more about EZnet Scheduler

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Web based solution for patient communication. Features include automated reminders, multilingual options, and reviews. Learn more about Patient Communicator
Web based solution for patient appointment scheduling. Features include automated reminders, multilingual options, and reviews. Learn more about Patient Communicator

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Fresha is the world’s #1 booking software for salons, spas and wellness businesses, trusted by 450,000+ professionals across the globe. Learn more about Fresha
Fresha is the world’s #1 booking software for salons, spas, and wellness businesses, trusted by over 450,000 professionals in over 120 countries. Designed to simplify operations and supercharge growth, Fresha provides an intuitive, all-in-one platform to manage appointments, streamline payments, and enhance client experiences. Boost your sales and attract new clients by accepting online bookings directly through Google search, your Facebook and Instagram pages, and your website. Clients are easily kept up to date via automated messages, emails and the mobile app. Fresha also empowers businesses to increase revenue with built-in marketing tools, client management features, and optional payment processing. Whether you're a solo practitioner or managing a multi-location business, Fresha offers the tools you need to succeed—all in one place. Learn more about Fresha

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Breely is your front desk solution. Automate customer interactions, from scheduling to engagement, so you can focus on your business. Learn more about Breely
Breely is the front desk for your business. We help to manage and automate every customer interaction — like scheduling appointments, collecting client information, and engaging with clients, so you can focus on the core of your business. Learn more about Breely

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Appointment scheduling, point-of-sale, staff management, marketing automation, and a whole lot more. Learn more about HelmBot
HelmBot Software is the top, client-rated software for Appointments & Business Management. Appointment scheduling, point-of-sale, staff management, marketing automation, and a whole lot more. Learn more about HelmBot

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
With Team Chat, Phone, AI Companion, and more, Zoom Workplace is the platform for your best work.
Zoom Workplace brings communication, employee engagement, spaces, and productivity solutions together on a single platform with Zoom AI Companion capabilities woven throughout. Streamline communications with tools that work together effortlessly through solutions like Meetings, Team Chat, Phone, Mail & Calendar, and Scheduler. Elevate a chat to a meeting or phone call to get to a resolution faster. Improve productivity with products that are built for modern work through solutions like Whiteboard, Clips, Notes, Surveys, and Docs. Optimize office experiences and hybrid work collaboration with flexible workspace solutions like Rooms, Workspace Reservation, Visitor Management, and Digital Signage. Whether you’re reserving your desk with Workspace Reservation, preparing for a client visit with Visitor Management, or finding your workstation with our wayfinding feature, you can do it all from the Workspaces tab. Learn more about Zoom Workplace

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Wix Bookings makes selling services and managing your bookings simple with an all-in-one scheduling solution for your business.
Get booked and drive more revenue with Wix Bookings, the leading online scheduling solution from Wix- trusted by 11 million+ businesses. Sell services, memberships, packages and more. This all-in-one business management platform includes essentials like an intelligent booking calendar, automated emails & SMS messages, staff management systems, custom analytics, a full marketing suite and more. Manage it all from your desktop or on the go with the Wix mobile apps. Learn more about Wix

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Self-service appointment scheduling with the world's friendliest scheduling tool, so you can save time for the rest of your to-do list.
Meet the personal scheduling assistant that works 24/7 behind the scenes to fill your calendar & take busywork off your plate. From the moment clients book with you, Acuity is there to automatically send branded & customized booking confirmations to you and your clients, deliver text reminders, let clients reschedule on their own, and process payments or accept donations. With Acuity, your day-to-day runs more smoothly even as business get busier. All you need to do is show up at the right time. Learn more about Acuity Scheduling

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Calendly helps individuals, teams, and organizations globally automate the meeting lifecycle by removing the scheduling back and forth.
Calendly helps individuals, teams, and organizations automate the meeting lifecycle by removing the back and forth with scheduling. Calendly’s cloud-based platform offers a new layer of the modern digital technology stack by connecting with critical tools to automate scheduling workflows, creates a more delightful customer experience, and provides insightful, measurable data to drive better business outcomes. Today, more than 20 million users across 230+ countries use Calendly to simplify meetings, collaborate more effectively and efficiently, and drive business forward. Learn more about Calendly

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Google Calendar is a scheduling solution that helps users create shareable calendars and schedule team meetings or events.
Google Calendar is a scheduling solution that helps users create shareable calendars and schedule team meetings or events. Users can add or find conference room details for scheduled meetings within Google Calendar. This solution supports scheduling one-time activities as well as recurring events, such as staff meetings. Teams can create events, add guests, select rooms/locations, add event descriptions and attachments, plus more. Learn more about Google Calendar

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Use Vagaro® Appointment Scheduling software to get booked, process payments, send reminders and market your business. 1 month free trial!
Vagaro® appointment scheduling software is the ultimate solution for businesses that want to streamline their scheduling process and enhance their overall efficiency. Vagaro offers a comprehensive set of features designed to simplify appointment management and provide a seamless booking experience for both businesses and clients. Clients can easily view available time slots, choose their preferred service provider, and book appointments 24/7 from any device. Automated appointment reminders and confirmations to reduce no-shows. Payment processing & e-commerce capabilities. Try Vagaro® for 1 month FREE. Learn more about Vagaro

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management
Simplify appointment scheduling, automate reminders, and streamline your business management with Mindbody scheduling software.
Mindbody’s all-in-one software has everything you need to seamlessly manage your business end-to-end and grow your revenue. From booking and scheduling to client and staff management, automated marketing and in-depth reporting to integrated payments and lead management, Mindbody helps you thrive. Plus, Mindbody offers innovation you can’t get elsewhere, including an AI front desk, as well as 700+ partner solutions, open API, and an exclusive network of new clients. Learn more about Mindbody

Features

  • Client Database
  • Group Scheduling
  • Recurring Appointments
  • Calendar Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Online Payments
  • Reporting & Statistics
  • Automated Scheduling
  • Appointment Management

Appointment Scheduling Software Buyers Guide

Appointment Scheduling Software

Appointment scheduling software is any programming application that enables users to book appointments or schedule meetings with clients, colleagues, contractors, or businesses across Canada. This specialized application type can streamline tasks conventionally carried out by personal assistants, secretaries, and receptionists in a business setting. It also empowers users to take the initiative and maintain full control of their virtual appointment diaries.

Scheduling systems are sought-after applications known for automating scheduling tasks, improving efficiencies, and promoting savings. As they enable end-users to gain access to their contacts' schedules, make real-time changes to their work diaries using a calendar-style scheduling interface, and opt for the best available options for them, appointment booking systems are also known for their user-oriented design, convenience, and transparency.

Often equipped with reminder tools, they can also be used to ensure timeliness, boost attendance rates, and promote the topics to be discussed at the meeting or appointment.

Appointment systems simplify the booking process and reflect professionalism on the side of both the organizer and attendee. By eliminating the risk of double bookings, automating time-consuming tasks, replacing manual processes prone to error, and facilitating real-time visibility into the host's appointment diary, these tools empower users in every capacity, including clients, suppliers, partners, contractors, and patients.

The working principle of online scheduling software is very simple. It lets attendees make appointments through a website or app via a PC or mobile device through online ticketing systems and, occasionally, offline ticketing and payment processing technology. In this respect, it works much like online booking software, scheduling software, and calendaring software tools. As it tends to come with built-in alerts and notifications, it borrows some of the functionalities of an appointment reminder software program.

But while they are user-driven by design, they can also be tailored to specific industry verticals. So, in this regard, they have much to share with healthcare and wellness applications, such as medical scheduling software, spa software, and massage therapy software. Another field of business that embraces booking software is hairstyling, so it could be said that these types of applications have much in common with barbershop software and salon software. This cross-over makes it possible for businesses to choose between using a specialized tool or opting for a more comprehensive package that can cover a broader set of activities for providers like holiday resorts, wellness clinics, leisure centres, and beauty salons.

No two appointment booking software tools are exactly alike, but there are a few capabilities they all come with, regardless of their industry vertical. Whether they're used in a healthcare setting, a corporate environment, field servicing activities, or event marketing campaign, any appointment scheduler should be able to perform, automate, and streamline these tasks, at the very least:

  • Centralize appointment management and employee/event scheduling

  • Sync calendars for attendees and hosts, including employees, clients, and contractors

  • Grant end-users access to the event calendar

  • Offer user-dependent and time-zone friendly visibility into upcoming slot availability

  • Provide booking, re-scheduling, and payment options

  • Send reminders, RSVP requests, and event confirmation emails

  • Distribute pre-attendance forms, waivers, topic lists, and more

What is appointment scheduling software?

Appointment scheduling software is designed to streamline the booking process for businesses, field service providers, creatives, and wellness professionals. It helps their teams synchronize calendars, make their availability known to clients, staff, or partners, and facilitate self-service bookings. With software like this, Canadian companies can minimize the risk of a no-show by connecting with users directly, sending pre-visit reminders, accommodating special requests, and granting real-time cancellations.

Appointment booking software replaces outdated business practices, like booking in person, over the phone, or via email through a receptionist, operator, or personal assistant. It solves some of the most troublesome aspects of manual appointment scheduling, such as overbooking, double-booking, and typos. Also, with real-time access to appointment diaries, users have complete control over the booking process without needing to share their personal time availability or credentials with a perfect stranger.

As a self-service tool, appointment management systems can come in the form of a browser platform, mobile app, in-app calendar, widget, or another integrated service. But whatever the type of program, its mainstay is the ability to centralize time availability, scheduling, and appointment management into a single, transparent, and accessible digital solution.

Online scheduling software lends itself well in a variety of business settings, including clinics, doctor's offices, salons, spas, gyms, estate agents, and home service businesses. But it can also be used in restaurants, car dealerships, field sales, financial institutions, and educational institutions that offer tours, such as universities and museums.

Scheduling systems are designed to serve a broad spectrum of industry sectors and be used by people who don't necessarily have advanced IT skills. These systems tend to offer an online portal for service providers to enter their business hours, service descriptions, and staff availability. On the other end of the process is a user portal that enables clients to create, change, or cancel their appointments without personally contacting the service provider. This feature removes the middle man, saves time and resources on both sides, reduces reliance on receptionists, lowers the risk of cancellation, and saves clients the trouble of calling to confirm appointments. It also empowers clients to single-handedly optimize their own schedules while staying within certain parameters.

Synchronizing calendars enables businesses to view client appointments, staff availability, and holidays in advance from a single dashboard. Depending on the type of software, service providers may also be able to integrate their calendars with their social media profiles, promote them with embedded code on their websites, or share custom URLs with prospective visitors. The higher the level of complexity, the less likely companies are to create proprietary scheduling applications of their own. Instead, most rely on existing, reputable, and established booking software providers that can accommodate custom demand fluctuations, seasonality, and viral marketing results through ASP, SaaS, or cloud-based models.

What are the benefits of appointment scheduling software?

The benefits of appointment scheduling software are double, for both the host of the meeting and the attendees. As a dependable double-barreled application designed to benefit both businesses and clients, an appointment scheduling tool's most basic benefits are efficiency, cost savings, and high levels of autonomy. But if we wanted to go into specifics, we could say that some of the most compelling benefits of appointment scheduling applications are:

  • Better CX and CRR: Empowering clients to book their appointments at leisure and at the best available time for them means less frustration and more business. A self-service portal with guided support and tips via on-screen pop-ups, drop-down menus, pre-filled fields, and chatbots is an effective way to ensure customer satisfaction (CX) and maximize customer return rates (CRR).

  • More autonomy: Appointment scheduling software allows clients to not only book their appointments but also cancel, reschedule, or set up recurring meetings. This benefit essentially replaces first contact and any follow-up calls with receptionists.

  • Lower vacancy rates: Relying on a receptionist to pencil in bookings on a first-come-first-serve basis without sharing their dashboard with the caller is not ideal. It can lead to callers overbooking certain days, settling for their least favourite option, leaving unfulfilled slots, or missing out on slots that later become available after they hang up. Online booking software addresses all of these issues.

  • Fewer no-shows: Appointment booking tools can send automated reminders, RSVP requests, and alerts with the option to rebook by text or email. It helps reduce the risk of a no-show, which is extremely high in restaurants, doctor's clinics, and other settings where clients do not typically call to notify the business that they will not be attending.

  • Fewer errors: While humans are pencilling in appointments for them, clients run the risk of being double-booked or not being booked in at all due to misunderstandings or human error. In the worst-case scenario, clients only find out once they have arrived for their appointment. Scheduling tools minimize the risk of needing to turn a client away.

  • Better staff scheduling: As the staff usually have access to their schedule and can make changes in real-time, scheduling or monitoring work hours is easier to manage. Managers can assign shifts, track attendance, capture daily activities, and prepare for peak times from a single dashboard with scheduling software.

  • Lighter workload: Freeing reception staff from the tedious task of appointment scheduling translates into a lighter workload for them. This leads to greater employee satisfaction and better use of their time and skill sets.

  • Multi-channel availability: The convenience of multi-channel booking is nothing to sneeze at. It is easy to see why it is best to offer several booking options, such as web portals and mobile apps or by phone, email, and online chat. They make it so that every client gets through without placing calls on hold, the line dropping, or encountering problems caused by lack of accessibility.

What are the features of appointment scheduling software?

The features of appointment scheduling software are limited by the user's imagination and their growth expectations for their industry sectors. But software developers are more imaginative and generous with the features they equip these tools with. If we were to get down to brass tacks, we could think of at least a few basic features of appointment scheduling software:

  • Online bookings: Users can book appointments on a self-service basis through online portals, on-site touchscreen kiosks, mobile apps, and other convenient channels. This feature can only add value if clients can see available slots in real-time and make their own decisions.

  • Automated scheduling: Check staff availability in real-time, display the information to users, and automatically recommend and book slots. This feature also adds value, but only if there is certainty that staff shifts, holidays, skills, work preferences, and requirements are up to date. For instance, a hairstylist may only be willing to work with specific types of hair, or a doctor's shift may overlap with external commitments that have not yet been factored in.

  • Recurring appointment scheduling: Users can schedule repeat appointments over a set period and with consideration to any exceptions. For instance, users should be able to schedule a dentist's appointment every few months but make allowance for the dentist's holiday or the time it takes for an implant to heal.

  • Rescheduling: Allow clients to reschedule their appointments hassle-free. It is often easier for a client to not show up for an appointment than to reschedule. An online scheduling tool can address this issue by automating the process with direct links to the calendar, in-app slot selection tools, text reminders to reschedule if unavailable, and black-list warnings for 'serial cancelers'.

  • Calendar integration: Incorporate the company’s appointment planner on the company website or booking app. Clients who prefer external, cloud-based options can choose between Google Calendar, iCal, and Outlook widgets and dashboards to be featured on their booking portal. This enables businesses to link the booking system to attendance and payroll management tools.

  • Calendar syncing: Enable staff to synchronize their calendars with that of the company and those of clients. This makes it possible for the calendar to incorporate accurate availability information and make real-time adjustments whenever they want to ask for time off, fill in for a coworker, or work overtime.

  • Appointment reminders: Admins can set automated reminders for both service providers and their clients in preparation for upcoming appointments, payments, or scheduling changes. Depending on the application, users may be able to receive emails, calls, texts, and in-app reminders or push notifications.

  • Queuing and waitlist management: Manage website traffic and appointment waiting lists. During peak times, service providers can offer built-in queuing systems on their websites or apps, informing clients of their estimated wait times before they can complete the booking. Waiting lists can also help clients secure their appointments if they are willing to wait.

  • Payment processing: Businesses can support payment processing for consultations, deposits, equipment, and add-on services. This enables businesses of any type, from glamping sites to medical facilities, to ensure that the clients benefit from transparency in terms of the costs of the services offered while also streamlining cash flows.

  • Website integration: Insert custom URLs in newsletters and embed pop-ups on the mobile app to steer visitors straight to the scheduling calendar page. Integrated tools like Google Reserve can also connect users browsing nearby businesses on Google Maps with the provider's booking system.

  • Manual input: Offer the option for clients to secure their bookings manually either by themselves or with help from reception staff. Manual input enables clients to request follow-up visits from receptionists as they exit the premises. It can also allow them to place a booking independently using a self-service kiosk or a mobile device terminal located on-site.

  • Dynamic resource allocation: Enable the system to automate staff and resource allocation for field workers, home servicing engineers, and mobile teams. Through built-in algorithms, appointment booking systems can connect a client with the nearest, most qualified, or highest-rated member of staff within proximity, calculating arrival estimates, fees, and the length of the appointment automatically.

As the Capterra software directory will readily reveal, there are countless appointment scheduling systems to choose from. But it's only with thorough research, browning, filtering, and comparisons that readers will find the ideal online booking software for their business needs.

What should be considered when purchasing appointment scheduling software?

When purchasing appointment scheduling software, it's easy to be swayed by the look, feel, or price of a tool. But these shouldn't be the main considerations. Instead, users should focus on the essentials. Here are three critical things to consider when purchasing appointment scheduling software:

  • Does it come with features relevant to business needs? The business size, market, and user base will determine a booking system's utility and relevance. Unlike individual users, who only care about being able to book and track their appointments easily, service providers care more about how easily they can schedule their staff and manage vast numbers of appointments. But for every business in Canada, the IT savviness of employees is a parameter unique to them. Employers must consider their workforce before retaining the services of a scheduling system to book, track, and manage appointments. Several factors, like multitasking abilities, workload, and corporate culture, all point to very specific needs that not all software can accommodate.

  • Is it best to opt for market-specific solutions? Most of the scheduling applications available on the market are intended for general use, making them ideal for companies with a diverse range of activities. This includes logistics companies, entertainment venues, hospitality businesses, and wellness clinics. However, certain fields of practice, such as healthcare, property management, car rental, and plumbing services, need specific data input from customers during the booking process, including NHS numbers, appliance serial codes, waivers, and accessibility needs declarations. Where possible, market-specific scheduling features should come before generic features.

  • Does the scheduling system promote transparency? Calendar syncing, website integration, and sharing functions aren't useful if the scheduling application overlooks details important to clients. For instance, if a pet groomer fails to mention the species, breed, and sex of pet that they specialize in, or a veterinary clinic omits certain fees or qualifications while including services they don't offer, then the booking system is inherently flawed due to lack of transparency and accuracy. Being able to input the languages businesses can accommodate, the types of services they offer, and the catchment area so that the information is visible and accessible even on small screens is a basic requirement of a good online booking system.

What are the most relevant appointment scheduling software trends?

Some of the most relevant appointment scheduling software trends emerging today are easier to embrace than others. But all businesses must adapt to the growing shift in consumer expectations, privacy concerns, and unstoppable automation. Here are some of the most prevalent appointment scheduling software trends:

  • Chatbot scheduling took off: Chatbots are part and parcel of many customer-facing operations and are gaining ground. Whether they are built into web pages, messaging apps, browsers, or proprietary booking apps, text and voice-enabled chatbots are taking over from humans and reinventing the online booking process. However, unless developers consider accessibility features, these tools can put people with impairments at a disadvantage.

  • Mobile readiness is crucial: As people spend more of their time on their smartphones or tablets than they do on PCs, they are more likely to book their appointments on a mobile device. This makes mobile readiness imperative for developers. Service providers who sign on with specific developers may face the challenge of not being able to reach as many clients as they would like if their apps are not compatible with certain devices. Also, even with universal device compatibility, scheduling applications can still disappoint clients by not rendering well on certain screens, not working well with screen readers, not displaying magnified content properly, etc.

  • Multi-channel scheduling is gaining traction: Being able to schedule appointments from readily available devices is faster, cheaper, and more satisfactory to clients. This raises the chance of clients accessing the booking system and completing their booking. Making it easy to schedule an appointment is an indicator of a great customer experience and a sign that clients will return if given the opportunity.

Sources:

The features highlighted were identified based on their relevance and the percentage of products in Capterra's directory that offer them. The following sources were used for this document:

  1. Appointment Scheduling Software Buyers Guide - Capterra Canada (Date accessed: Thursday, January 5, 2022)