How to choose an online booking system for a service business: 8 criteria

Online booking is no longer a luxury — it's expected. Clients want to book when it suits them: in the evening, at the weekend, on the way to work. But there are dozens of systems and they differ a lot. Here's what to check before you sign up.

1. Is there a commission per visit?

Many platforms take a percentage of every booking or charge for each "new client". For a small business it looks minor, but over a year it adds up to hundreds or thousands of euros. Choose a system with a fixed price, regardless of how many bookings you get.

2. Whose brand does the client see?

If booking happens on a marketplace, your client sees not only you but also your competitors. It's better when booking runs on your own website, with your logo, colours and domain.

3. Do clients need an account?

Every extra step costs you bookings. Ideally a client can book in 30 seconds: service, specialist, time, name and phone.

4. Reminders and no-shows

Automatic reminders before the visit significantly reduce no-shows. Check whether reminders are sent in your name and whether clients can reschedule themselves.

5. Other things that matter

• Is the calendar comfortable on a phone — that's where you'll use it most.
• Can you manage several employees, locations and access rights.
• Are there gift cards, reviews and analytics.
• Where is the data stored and is it GDPR-compliant.
• Will they help you import your existing clients.

Conclusion

A good booking system works invisibly: clients book themselves, you see a clear calendar, and the money stays with you. LaikuGO is built exactly like that — no commission, with your brand and your domain. Try the demo and judge for yourself.