Automated Booking Systems & Platforms

Introduction:

Can convenience come at a cost in today’s cosmetic and medical sector – Is convenience really king?

When ordering groceries online or looking to book travel accommodation, automated booking systems can be used as a quick and easy way of completing online actions and promises to streamline our lives – But are they truly as great as they seem, especially when considering cosmetic and medical treatments? Let’s delve into the potential pitfalls of automated booking systems within the cosmetic and medical sector and why they might not always live up to their promises.

Platforms & Systems:

Automated booking systems lack the human touch, personalisation and a sense of trust which is often built between professional and patient. In a lot of cases potential customers will often book treatments and services off the back of recommendations or direct contact, by relying on algorithms and pre-set parameters, businesses and professionals may find they receive less customer interaction or bookings as a result of using these types of services.

Some individuals find the idea or usage of booking systems confusing and overwhelming, making it challenging to cater to individual preferences or unique initial requests. The trade-off can be a personalised service is normally more labour intensive, but often the additional time can make a significant difference in the overall customer experience and while automated systems offer convenience, they may lack flexibility when circumstances change. For example, if you need to modify or cancel a booking last-minute, you may encounter rigid policies or face difficulties reaching customer support. This lack of flexibility can lead to frustration and inconvenience for customers.

No system is perfect, and automated booking systems are no exception. Glitches, technical errors, miscommunications, and service issues can occur, leading to incorrect bookings or unavailability to book at all. While human error is also possible, having a person oversee the booking process can help catch mistakes before they escalate.

In the event of an issue or inquiry, interacting with a chatbot or automated response system can feel impersonal and frustrating. While some cosmetic and medical companies offer live support channels, others rely solely on automated responses, which can leave customers feeling unheard and undervalued with an impersonal customer service.

Automated booking systems can require users to input sensitive personal and financial information. While most platforms claim to prioritise security, data breaches and cyber-attacks remain a constant threat. Users must trust that their information is safe from malicious actors, which can be a significant concern for many. Relying solely on automated booking systems can lead to a dependency on technology. Users may become complacent and overlook alternative options, such as communicating directly with service providers. Additionally, technological failures or outages can leave individuals and businesses stranded without access to essential services and information.

In a lot of cases booking systems and platforms charge commission and fees for businesses and professionals using their booking services, meaning the fees and costings are likely to change and continue to go up. Some platforms charge businesses, some charge customers (which can be off putting to potential client), some providers charge both the businesses and the customers – Making the pros of using such a service questionable.

Is the Personal Touch a way of the Past?

In the realm of cosmetic and medical treatments, can the importance of a personal touch be overstated?

Each individual customer or client have their own unique goals, concerns, and preferences when it comes to treatments and procedures – Which is why the personalised approach allows practitioners and professionals to understand the specific needs of their patients and tailor recommendations accordingly from the off. Whether it’s choosing the most suitable procedure or creating a bespoke treatment plan, personalised initial care ensures that patients or client receive the best possible outcome and advice.

Unlike an online grocery order, undergoing or choosing to have certain cosmetic or medical treatments can be a deeply personal experience, often accompanied by feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty. Establishing a strong rapport and building trust between patients and practitioners is essential in alleviating anxieties and instilling confidence in the treatment process. Patients and clients are more likely to feel comfortable and reassured when they know their provider genuinely cares about their well-being.

Effective communication is key in ensuring any concerns and expectations are fully understood and addressed prior to any service, and though this can be done on a specific consultation or on the treatment day – But for a lot of clients and patients the personal touch starts with the first contact and allows practitioners to engage in meaningful discussions with their patients by clarifying any doubts or misconceptions and managing realistic expectations. This not only enhances patient satisfaction but also minimises the risk of dissatisfaction or disappointment post-treatment.

Cosmetic and medical treatments can have significant emotional implications for clients and patients, whether they’re undergoing reconstructive treatments or are seeking a brand-new enhancement or medical procedure. A compassionate and empathetic approach from professionals can provide invaluable emotional support throughout the treatment journey. By ensuring the personal touch clients and patients are more like to have initial questions and concerns answered, fostering a sense of comfort and reassurance during what can be a challenging time. Patients are more likely to return to a practitioner they trust for follow-up appointments, maintenance treatment procedures, as a result of their treatment experience and journey.

How Automated Booking Systems Work:

Automated booking systems have become the go-to solution for many cosmetic and medical businesses. While there is a level of convenience and efficiency, there are often hidden costs, in the form of commissions and fees. Many automated booking platforms operate on commission-based models. This means that every time you make a booking through their system, a percentage of the transaction goes directly to the provider. While this might seem like a small price to pay for the convenience of using a booking service, these commissions can quickly add up, especially for businesses that rely heavily on online bookings.

In addition to commissions, automated booking systems often charge service fees to both customers and businesses. These fees can vary widely depending on the platform and the type of booking being made. Whether it’s a flat fee per transaction or a percentage of the total booking amount, these additional charges can significantly impact the overall cost for both parties involved.

Some automated booking systems engage in price markup tactics, where they inflate the prices of products or services offered through their platform. This allows them to earn additional revenue without explicitly charging commissions or fees. While users may not always be aware of these markups, they end up paying more than they would if they booked directly with the service provider.

Beyond upfront commissions and service fees, automated booking systems may also impose hidden costs on businesses. This could include setup fees, subscription fees, or additional charges for premium features or enhanced visibility on the platform. These hidden costs can eat into businesses profit margins and make it challenging for smaller establishments to compete with larger companies.

One of the most concerning aspects of automated booking systems can be the lack of transparency surrounding fee structures. While some platforms may disclose their commission rates and service fees upfront, others bury this information in the fine print or only reveal it after the booking is completed. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for users and businesses to make informed decisions about whether to use the booking system.

For a lot of businesses, the fees associated with automated booking systems can significantly impact their bottom line. High commission rates and service fees eat into profits, forcing companies to either raise prices for their clients or patients or accept lower margins. Additionally, businesses may feel pressured to participate in these platforms to remain competitive, even if it means sacrificing a portion of their revenue.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while automated booking systems offer undeniable convenience and ease of bookings, it’s essential to recognise the financial implications and lack of a personal touch when dealing with enquires. From commission schemes and service fees to hidden costs and price markups, these systems can streamline businesses, but can be very costly for both customer and the businesses implementing them. It is crucial to be aware of the fees and consider alternative solutions prior to agreeing or using these systems, as some of these services and booking systems may not be right for individual business needs, when considering an improved customer experience.