Still on the fence about Microsoft Bookings? Yeah, it’s pretty new, so we get your hesitation. And perhaps adoption has been slow since there are numerous competitors in the wild, especially since it’s more of a small business product and not an enterprise product (which may seem strange for Microsoft which typically skews consumer-based or enterprise based), so Microsoft has outlined a few new reasons why it’s worth the extra look.
Integration with your Office 365 calendar
If you’re already on Office 365 for your calendaring needs, this is a no-brainer. If your calendar sees you have an appointment during that time, no one can double book you. Easy.
The buffer zone.
Okay, so we’re talking about the ability to give yourself a buffer between appointments. Perhaps you’re a traveling salesperson. It’s not realistic to go to a meeting in Brooklyn and then have a meeting immediately thereafter in the Bronx (for those of you unfamiliar with the geography, that could be a good 30-45 minutes commuting on a good day). A buffer allows you to set aside time before and after your appointments to avoid these issues and to give others–perhaps stay at home practitioners such as psychologists, piano teachers, or whoever else–the ability to block out time that would make you just a little too crazy if you were really scheduled back to back.
Mobile first
There is now a Microsoft Bookings app for your iOS and Android phone so that you’re never far away from your calendar. You can even check in with a customer.
Customizations
You can now more colorfully customize your Bookings and give it a little more personality.
I’m in! Where do I begin?
That’s a good question. As long as you have Office 365 Business Premium, you’ve got the infrastructure to support Bookings. Just click the Bookings title on the App launcher, and you’re good to go.
Photo Credit: Microsoft, Shutterstock
