What are the advantages of online booking systems?
Most of our lives these days seem to be driven by technology and it’s no different when it comes to booking classes, events and gym time, for example. But if you’re a business owner considering installing an online booking system, what are the pros and cons?
Technology
To install an online booking system you will need the right technology. Existing hardware will need to have the right specification to be compatible with the system you choose and, of course, you will need internet access.
The benefits of using technology, though, are plentiful. Firstly, you’re likely to get more bookings, provided your site is promoted correctly, as the majority of people expect to be able book and buy online nowadays. Secondly, as your system and its data will be backed up to the cloud, you will be creating an ongoing client database.
If you also use membership management software systems such as those provided by https://www.satori-membership-management.co.uk/Membership-management-software-systems.aspx you will be able to create marketing campaigns and tailor member benefits based on the client history you are collecting, which in turn should mean you see increased revenues from up and cross selling.
Of course, with any online technology, you can be open to fraud and you should ensure that any software provider you choose can demonstrate their credentials in this area.
If you’re concerned about online fraud, TechRadar offers some great advice for small businesses.
Costs versus savings
There’s no doubt that there will be a cost involved in switching from a phone-based to an online booking system. There’s the software cost itself, often a monthly subscription fee or fee per transaction, as well as staff training and potential upgrades to existing hardware.
But compare this to the cost of paying someone to man the phones and online booking systems generally represent great value. And of course, your online system will be able to take bookings 24 hours a day as well as handle payments.
There is no doubt that implementing an online booking system will make your company appear as if it takes a modern approach to accepting bookings, but it does have its pros and cons. Once you’ve made the decision to go ahead, choosing the right time to get started can be critical to ensuring a smooth installation and minimal business interruption.
