Your Update is ready: WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF SALON SOFTWARE?

As we try to navigate a post-pandemic world, now more than ever salons should look to software systems and technology to help streamline, organise and strengthen their businesses. Keysha Davis uncovers the most exciting updates from the top tech websites and apps

MONITOR FOOTFALL

Shortcuts 8.1 is described by the makers as the latest and greatest version of the popular app, which has been given an exciting revamp to make the user experience more efficient. The app has most notably received updates to the design of the Walkin Manager. This improved version offers a more intuitive experience comprising of one-touch action buttons, group checkout and improved visibility on service and wait times – ideal for managing footfall during post-lockdown times. Shortcuts 8.1 also boasts an updated point of sale design, ensuring that the customer receives a start-to-finish quality salon experience.

GO PAPERLESS!

Zenoti is the dynamic app that provides a cloud-based software solution to hundreds of hair salons throughout the country. With its sleek interface, the app enables users to seamlessly manage many aspects of their business including online appointment bookings, CRM, and inventory and employer management. The brand recently launched a bunch of innovative features designed to harness business growth and streamline management. New features include cloning of packages, which enables you to create day packages and promo packages; as well as a ‘deposit collecting function’ that helps to safeguard businesses from no-shows and cancellations. Zenoti has also introduced a service called Parallel Service, granting front-desk staff the ability to book up to two services with two different providers at the same time, helping salons to drive sales.

HELP REDUCE NO-SHOWS

Phorest has just launched an Online Deposit Solution that has proven to drop customer no-shows by a huge 1.9% from a previous 5.4%. As most salon owners will attest, empty slots within a salon’s daily schedule can devastate businesses and even more-so following the pandemic when salons are in the midst of trying to rebuild. So, by obtaining a deposit prior to a salon appointment via Phorest, it allows for safeguarding of bookings as clients are more likely to show up if they’ve paid a deposit. Another new software function is Custom Fees where you can charge extra fees (a fixed or automatic fee) to a client’s account for services such as charity donations, PPE and plastic bag costs.

CREATE BESPOKE DOCUMENTATION

The Timely app offers a wide range of services such as helping you to deliver an elevated client experience, save hours on admin, and establish a strong brand identity through marketing and promotions. The most recent addition is eConsult, an online consultation form which allows salons to create bespoke forms for each treatment or customer. The idea is that these customisable digital forms will help businesses stay safe and covid compliant – providing reassurance to your client base.

REBOOKING REMINDERS AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON

Staying true to its commitment to make life as smooth as possible for salon owners, iSalon recently launched a new version, 12.2, following rigorous research pre- and post- Covid concerning the core needs of salon businesses. Improvements include a rebooking reminder that stores the services the customer previously received to make rebooking easier. Additionally, client records will now inform salon owners if a client fails to meet security requirements to use their credit accounts, allowing businesses to gain better control of their profits and earnings. Other improvements include receipt printing for PayByLink bills, a more efficient voucher payment grid, and an upgraded Team KPI report that will help managers to monitor staff performance.

DISPLAY YOUR REVIEWS AND HELP BOOST REVENUE

Following consumer behaviour insight from review platform Salonspy, the brand has discovered that customers want to know about the experiences of others newer than three months old. As such, it’s crucial for salon owners to keep on top of their reviews to attract new clients. Premier Software has created new software simply titled ‘Salon’ that integrates with Salonspy to display reviews so customers are aware of the salon service they are likely to receive. Following verified appointments, the salon automatically sends a review link via SMS for the customer to fill out. When clients provide feedback, this will be displayed on your salon’s profile at salonspy.com. You will also have the ability to show your salonspy rating on your website.

GO LITE

Booksy is a well-known player in the industry, and describes itself as a hard-working business partner in the form of a pocket-size salon management system. It comes with a wide range of features, from 24/7 online booking to multi-channel customer support, becoming your assistant, manager, marketing specialist and receptionist at the same time. The brand has unveiled their new product for the fiercely independent – Booksy Biz Lite, which allows business owners to manage core business functions like appointments, payment processing and marketing from their mobile device. And for those who need more? Enter Booksy Biz Pro, the complete business solution optimised for the front desk. Manage team calendars, create shifts, track inventory, run reports and more.

BOOK CLIENTS ON THE GO

Many salons who have historically operated a walk-in service have been forced to pivot over the last 18 months, and implement appointmentonly methods to allow for social distancing and capacity management. Throughout the past year, Salon Tracker has enhanced its online booking and registration tools and also improved its Siteview application (an app for salon employees), in order to help with this way of working. Now the online booking feature has the ability to automatically add-on extra cleaning time to all appointments and allows clients to make and amend their bookings from wherever they are, 24/7. Online registration also allows clients to register using their own devices, to stop overcrowding at a reception desk and to make the booking process much smarter. The Siteview app also enables employees to book in clients whilst on the move, so amendments can be made while they are away from the salon.

IDEAL FOR ALL PROFESSIONALS

Get the right kind of attention with Beu. The benefits? Self-employed and employed salon staff can work seamlessly together in the same salon. Online bookings can be easily taken, and the client will feel like you know them and their hair inside out as the app stores all client notes.

Beu really does focus on professionals that provide services, not just bricks and mortar salons – so it’s ideal for freelancers.

You’ll also find the app and webapp slick and easy to use.

STREAMLINE YOUR ADMIN

Award-winning salon booking software Salon Iris is frequently updated with new features, and one such update is Custom Online Forms that will help to save your business precious time, streamline valuable data and help you minimise close contact with clients – ever important in these pandemic times. Forms are easily customizable to suit your business needs, and cover many aspects including Covid 19 questionnaires, client intake forms, consultation forms and so much more. You can also keep your salon open 24/7 and increase appointments with Salon Iris as the software company allows you to create your very own, absolutely free, and totally customizable online booking website. You can easily integrate your new website with your business’s Facebook/Instagram page and receive notifications when clients book – which then automatically updates your Salon Iris appointment book.