Salon owners often note client data in paper diaries or registers, which can be vulnerable to loss through theft or system failure. With the best salon software, managers can streamline operations by storing data securely in the cloud. An easy-to-navigate online booking experience helps build client loyalty. Also, with mobile payment processing, clients can quickly checkout via a link or contactless with their smartphone for faster, more convenient transactions.
Appointment Scheduling
Salon operating systems significantly impact your salon’s day-to-day running by automating tasks and taking care of other management aspects “behind the scenes.” Essentially, they help you do more in less time with fewer errors, enabling you to spend more time focusing on clients and growing your business. Appointment booking apps allow your clients to book services with you whenever and wherever they’re free, reducing the number of calls and inquiries you have to deal with during opening hours. You can also use an app to promote your business to a broader audience online and drive new clients to your door. The best salon software solution should include a calendar of your available appointments with easy access to view availability at a glance by day, week, or month. You should also be able to set appointment reminders via SMS or email and allow your clients to change or reschedule their bookings with you quickly. If you want to boost your reputation as a beauty professional, choose an appointment scheduling app with built-in client feedback system support and social media integration with Facebook or Google Business Profile.
Inventory Management
While most salons may have a system of recording customer data in diaries or registers, they often lack a digital platform for storing and retrieving that information. This can lead to several problems, from losing data in case of computer failure or cyber-attack to wasting valuable time and resources looking for specific records. Salon software eliminates this problem by collecting and storing data automatically on cloud services.
Another essential feature of salon management software is its ability to keep track of inventory. Most solutions allow you to record a full list of products in your database, complete with stock details, price changes, and more. You can even set up alerts to notify you when a product is close to being out of stock so you can quickly order more. Some salon management apps go even further and help you grow your business via effective marketing. It offers a range of features that let you send out one-time text or email campaigns to clients and automated appointment reminders.
Marketing
Using salon software to market your business can boost client loyalty. For example, a salon booking app like Treatwell allows you to build a brand page on the platform and promote yourself to potential clients. You can also set up your salon’s services and schedules on the platform so clients can see your availability and book appointments. A good salon management solution will help you manage your inventory and POS system. It will also offer reliable payment methods that your customers can use when they make their payments. This can increase your salon’s cash flow and ensure you get paid for your services. Some salon owners still prefer to record customer data in diaries or registers, but this method has drawbacks. For one, offline data is susceptible to loss or theft through a system failure or cyber-attack. With cloud-based salon management software, however, your business data is automatically stored on a server that’s secure and accessible to you at all times. Choosing the right salon management solution will depend on your preferences and needs. While some salons only require a simple online booking and POS system, others might want an all-in-one solution that covers everything from appointment scheduling to marketing.
Customer Service
The best salon software can support your customer service in many ways, too, including saving client notes and sending out emails with newsletters to help your clients. It can also help you find new customers through online bookings and client marketplaces. Another way salon software can enhance the customer experience is by improving staff management. It can enable you to track individual stylists’ appointments and work progress, allowing you to make more accurate individual assessments and evaluations of your employees. It can also help you better plan your staff’s schedules, ensuring they are well-rested and have enough time to recharge between appointments. Moreover, a good salon software solution can provide solid inventory management support, allowing you to see stock levels and order reorders when needed quickly. It can even notify you when specific product reorder points have been reached and alert you when products are out of stock.
