In today’s world, applications for arranging meetings and booking time slots are gaining more popularity. However, the fact that more and more tools are currently available on the market causes customers confusion, and consequently, they cannot decide which to choose.
In this blog post, we will discuss what Simplybook is, whether it is the best option to choose, and why looking for non-Simplybook scheduling options is beneficial.
Our discussion will also cover things you should consider before switching.
What is Simplybook?
Designed for small and profitable service businesses, Simplybook is a cloud-based scheduling tool.
This online reservation system allows users to accept bookings and remind clients and service providers of their scheduled appointments via email or SMS message. Moreover, bookings can be accepted over social media platforms thanks to SimplyBook widgets, which integrate with them.
Using Simplybook, customers can also provide service with feedback. Thanks to this system, revenue can be increased, and customer service may be improved.
SimpleBooks also offers the opportunity to view a log of all arrangements.
Aside from that, no-shows can be reduced with the help of a reminder system. Finally, this booking system prevents customers from making double bookings for one slot.
However, all businesses have different needs, yet it is essential to note that this software solution may not meet all industry requirements in each business service.
Even though Simplybook is pretty simplified, it is a basic tool. With the free version, the problem starts with the number of features it offers. And we are not saying that it possesses too much of them.
Some Simplybook options are very functional, but to gain access to them, you need to upgrade your plan to a higher level. Hence, unfortunately, customers have to reckon with increased costs instead of saving money.
Now, let’s move on to the further part of this article, in which we will consider why Simplybook is less than ideal. And that is why we recommend examining other programs available on the market.
Where does Simplybook fall short?
Several people choose Simplybook primarily because it facilitates bookings. But unfortunately, some features of this program aren’t handy enough for its users.
A few examples are provided below.
- Notification problems are frequently reported by customers – such as delays or not obtaining booking appointments on time
- In some cases, website integration can be problematic
- Direct card payment is not available
- A free version is limited to 50 bookings, and it requires a monthly renewal.
- Adding more features will increase the price significantly
- You can’t try different options after you’ve used the free version limit, so you’re stuck if you want to see which is the best
- There is no real-life feedback provided
- Customization is expensive
- Getting used to the interface and finding the options takes time
- Setting up all meetings automatically in Outlook or Gmail is inconvenient.
Doing a deeper search may reveal more such inconveniences. Of course, it does not mean that other tools available on the market are not struggling with such issues. However, it is worth bearing in mind to facilitate the smooth functioning of our business from the very beginning.
Why should you look for Simplybook alternatives?
Several factors may lead you to consider using something other than Simplybook.
After learning all the flaws of the Simplybook system, it may be reasonable to think about an alternative solution that will prevent the business from slowing down and instead make it flourish.
While researching alternatives to Simplybook, among diverse booking applications, you should consider customer service and time management as determining factors.
Remember that even a subscribed plan may not meet your needs or become too expensive, which could also be why you would like to change your service provider.
So, the best thing you can do now is to weigh all the options before deciding.
Looking for a SimplyBook alternative: what to seek
#1 Make sure the app has the features you are looking for
Just as every business is different, every business should have tailored functions their customers may need to use. Considering a reliable list of features with established and adjusted features, e.g., appointment reminders or chatbots, will help you choose the best software for your business.
#2 Pick an easy-to-use, straightforward system
For the booking system to be user-friendly and easy to use, it should be easy to navigate with a simple yet fancy design. Booking platforms should make accepting and canceling appointments straightforward.
It doesn’t have to be rocket science. The only thing that may discourage you are solutions that aren’t intuitive and will slow your business.
Learn more about choosing a booking system here.
#3. Think about your budget
Next, you need to consider your budget. What is the maximum amount you would be willing to spend on a new platform? Get a price comparison by shopping around.
Investing in your business will pay off in the long run.
Don’t be fooled by inflated prices. Compare your options carefully. When making your decision, make sure you read the feedback from previous customers. Finally, ensure the platform you plan to purchase offers the features you need.
#4 Check Software integration
The ability to integrate your reservation platform with your existing tools is crucial to the success of your business.
Do not hesitate to change your service provider if your current provider does not offer this option or their solution isn’t working for you.
#5 Check plan upgrades
Check out the plan upgrades or premium plans in case you may need more options down the road. It is important to consider how easy and painless an upgrade will be and whether it is affordable.
In most cases, companies charge exorbitant prices for additional features. So, whenever possible, stay away from it.
#6 Customer support
As a business owner, providing excellent customer service is crucial to maintaining and attracting customers. In addition, a business that offers outstanding customer service can recoup customer acquisition costs and build a reliable brand.
Find a service provider who will provide you with the possibility of real-life interaction with customer service and thus strengthen the position of your business on the market.
Calendesk as a Simplybook alternative
There are many alternatives to Simplybook available on the market.
However, one of the best Simplybook alternatives is Calendesk.
Online bookings through our comprehensive platform have impeccable customer ratings.
With Calendesk, not only can you streamline your work with external integrations, but you can also increase its efficiency. Our product allows you to speed up your work with your needed apps. Integrating Zoom, Google Calendar, Google Meet, Zapier, and other applications make work organization simple and transparent. We also ensure that unnecessary activities are not recorded on your calendar without your consent.
As a result, you won’t have to worry about unnecessary notifications appearing in the long run. In addition, we manage to prevent no-shows. While other companies are only concerned with sending notifications, Calendesk sends clients reminders about their upcoming visits and allows you to collect payments before the visit, create subscriptions, and send invoices so you’re never left out of the loop.
Calendesk provides its customers with a free trial. What is the purpose of the 14-day testing period? As we mentioned earlier, it is crucial to determine what plan we need, what functions we need to use, and which we could decide to give up. To facilitate this process, we will give you a chance to use all Calendesk functions included in the Standard plan during this period. Moreover, without the need to enter your card details, we ensure our customers that the trial period is free of charge and that payments are only necessary when choosing a paid plan. As a result, you won’t be charged if you forget to cancel your subscription after a few days.
In addition, with Calendesk, you can migrate between subscription plans whenever your business needs a change. During the switch, we will calculate the amounts so you will not lose anything.
Furthermore, Calendesk offers the option of placing the calendar on your website as a permanent element. It means that the booking process is simplified, which will surely impress your clients.
There is no doubt that Calendesk stands out from other online booking systems.
In a few words of conclusion
There are many alternatives to Simplybook. Feel free to make changes if you are unsatisfied with the services provided. There is always a positive outcome in business when you perform cold calculations.
