Ever feel like your booking system is just a tad too simple? Like it’s missing that certain je ne sais quoi? Well, hold on to your hats, folks, because we’re about to dive into the wonderful world of the Bookly Extended Services Add-on. This isn’t just another plugin; it’s like giving your existing booking setup a shot of espresso – suddenly, everything’s more complex (in a good way, promise!).

Crafted for those of us who like to offer, well, more, this add-on lets you chain together services like a caffeinated octopus juggling flaming torches. Think of it: a haircut and a beard trim, a massage followed by a mud bath, or maybe even a consultation paired with an intervention (for your code, naturally). The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination and the sanity of your clients.

So, buckle up, buttercup! We’re about to unravel the mysteries of extended services, explore its nitty-gritty details, and maybe even crack a joke or two along the way. After all, who said managing complex bookings couldn’t be a laughing matter? And remember, this add-on is forked from Bookly Compound Services (Add-on), so you know it’s got good genes (or at least, good code).

Unpacking the Bookly Extended Services Add-on

The Extended Services add-on lets you combine multiple individual services into a single, bookable offering. Think of it as creating service packages. This empowers customers to book related services together, enhancing convenience and streamlining the booking process.

For example, a customer might want a “Deluxe Spa Day” combining a massage, facial, and manicure. Instead of booking each separately, they can book the extended service.

This add-on solves a key problem for website owners: simplifying complex bookings. It reduces the number of steps for clients, leading to higher conversion rates. Clients can easily understand the bundled services and associated costs. This feature increases efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Essentially, this tool is a powerful feature derived from the earlier iteration of combined services functionality. It refines and expands upon the original concept, providing improved control and flexibility in creating these service combinations.

Setting Up Your First Extended Service: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to create your first extended service? Here’s a simple guide.

1. Go to the ‘Extended Services’ section in your admin panel. This is where you manage your combined service offerings.

2. Click ‘Add New Service.’ This will open the extended service creation interface.

3. Choose the ‘Main Service.’ This is the primary service around which you’ll build your extended offering.

4. Add ‘Sub-services.’ Select the additional services to include. You can add multiple sub-services to create a comprehensive package.

5. Set the combined price. You have two options: a fixed price for the extended service, or a dynamic price based on the sum of the individual service prices. Enable ‘Combine price’ option and specify the total. If disabled, the price is a sum of all the subservices.

6. Configure the duration. The duration can either be fixed or dynamically calculated based on the durations of the main and sub-services.

7. Save your new extended service. Make sure all details are correct before saving.

Customizing the Appearance and Functionality

The flexibility of the Extended Services Add-on extends to its appearance and functionality. Tailor the booking form to seamlessly integrate extended services. You can customize the labels displayed for the extended service, the main service, and associated sub-services. This provides a consistent brand experience. Navigate to the add-on’s settings to adjust these labels to align with your desired terminology.

Control the booking process using available settings. Specify whether customers can select multiple sub-services within a single extended service. Define dependencies between sub-services. Set individual buffer times for each component service within the extension, ensuring adequate preparation between appointments. Remember to preview these settings to make sure your customers have a seamless experience.

Advanced Use Cases and Tips

The Extended Services add-on unlocks powerful ways to enhance your offerings. Consider creating service packages. For example, combine a consultation with a follow-up session and a personalized plan. Bundling related services at a discounted price can incentivize clients to book more. This boosts revenue and improves customer satisfaction.

To set a discount, define the regular prices for each included service. Then, set a lower price for the bundled extended service. This shows clients the value they receive. Promote these packages prominently on your booking page. Highlight the benefits of booking the entire package instead of individual services.

Experiment with limited-time offers. Create special bundles available only for a specific period. This creates urgency and drives bookings. Use clear and concise descriptions for each service in the package. Ensure clients understand exactly what they’re getting. Track the performance of your packages. Analyze which bundles are most popular. Adapt your offerings based on client preferences. This maximizes your booking potential and revenue.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful setup, you might encounter issues using the Extended Services add-on. Let’s explore common problems and their solutions. One frequent issue arises from service incompatibilities. Some base services might not logically combine with certain extended options.

If an extended service refuses to attach, double-check compatibility. Review the base service’s settings and the extended service’s requirements. Are there duration conflicts? Does the base service’s capacity clash with the extended service’s needs? These are crucial questions.

Another potential problem is unexpected pricing. Always verify the final price calculation when combining services. Ensure the discount logic from the previous chapter is applied correctly and that no unintended surcharges are added. Use the preview booking feature to test various service combinations and identify pricing errors early.

When extended services do not appear as expected, examine the visibility settings. Make sure that they are not inadvertently hidden or restricted to specific staff members. Also, clear your browser cache, as outdated data can sometimes cause display problems. If the issue persists, contact support with detailed information about the problem.

Final words

So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the Bookly Extended Services Add-on. Hopefully, you’re now armed with the knowledge to transform your single services into a symphony of booking bliss. This add-on, a respectful nod to its predecessor Bookly Compound Services (Add-on), is all about giving you the flexibility to offer more, charge accordingly, and keep your clients coming back for more.

Remember, the key to success with any booking system isn’t just about offering a service; it’s about creating an experience. And with the Bookly Extended Services Add-on, you’re well on your way to crafting booking experiences that are as unique and captivating as your business itself. So go forth, experiment, and don’t be afraid to get a little crazy with your service combinations. After all, the only limit is your imagination (and maybe the laws of physics).

Now, go forth and conquer the world of combined services. Your clients (and your bank account) will thank you for it!