Scheduling Tools Pros & Cons
Have you ever tried to connect with someone and it seemed like your emails went back and forth for days, or even weeks, before you could find a time that worked for both of you? If that is the case, an online scheduling tool might be just the thing you need!
There are so many ways you can use your scheduling tool. Some scheduling tools create code that you can embed or provide links you can use in other ways. Below are some common ways to use an embed code or link:
- In your email signature line.
- As a call to action in social media or blogs.
- On your website.
- Follow-up emails when you meet someone.
We’ve pulled together a few that we’re familiar with so that you have a quick and easy reference guide.
Pros: the branding is amazing. Cost is appropriate for what they offer, and it offers a free version. You can schedule with different team members and take payments in app.
Cons: it is a bit more complicated to set up. And, in the trial version I had, I could never figure out where to put my Zoom information so that it showed up in the calendar appointment and not just the confirmation email.
Good For: scheduling appointments for multiple team members such as hair stylists or consultants and collecting payment at the time of scheduling.
Pros: It seamlessly integrates with your email and calendar in Office 365, Microsoft’s suite of products, making it less expensive than Acuity with more productivity tools. It also offers scheduling for other team members and the ability to take payments for different appointments.
Cons: It has only a few customization features for branding. You can change to pre-set color schemes. It is also a bit clunky when you are scheduling with different types of appointments. It doesn’t work with Google Suite.
Good For: like Acuity, it is good for scheduling appointments for multiple team members and collecting payment at the time of scheduling.
Pros: there is a very basic free version that allows for 1 calendar that many of DCA’s solopreneur clients use.
Cons: if you need multiple calendars, you must sign up for one of the premium versions. Calendly doesn’t have great branding options.
Good For: very small businesses and solopreneurs since it has limited options, it is also easier to set up.
Pros: comprehensive scheduling with individuals such as trainers or massage therapists plus the ability to schedule group classes such as yoga and exercise. You can also set up subscriptions for things like monthly unlimited classes. Mind Body is intuitive and easy to set-up
Cons: cost, scalability, and limited integrations with other software.
Good for: fitness businesses such as gyms, yoga studios, wellness businesses, and potentially health practitioners.
Having a scheduling tool like one of the above can be really helpful. You could also opt to use a premium software solution like HubSpot or SharpSpring that offer internal scheduling tools along with a powerhouse of other tools. My advice: pick one that fits your current needs and expected growth rather than the free one. I’m speaking from experience when I say, switching scheduling tools is a bit of a pain in the butt.
Let us know if we can help you get your scheduling automated.