As growing business owners, one of the most important things is to keep that schedule full. The more clients you have on the books, the higher your revenue potential. And that’s a good thing. But scheduling management isn’t always as easy as you might think. For small businesses in the field service industry in particular, you need to account for how long a service call will take, how long it takes to get from point A to point B, and how to prevent arriving too early or too late.
When you crack the code on all of that, it can mean great things for your business—satisfied customers, more leads, and, yes, even some work-life balance. So, how can you save time, improve productivity, and grow your business? It starts with using the best appointment scheduling app for your business.
Jump Ahead to Find the Perfect Scheduling App for Your Small Business
- How We Chose the Best Small Business Scheduling Apps
- Best Scheduling App for Small Field Service Businesses
- Best Scheduling App for General Businesses
- Best Scheduling App for Salons, Spas, and Fitness Studios
- Best Scheduling App for Small Online Businesses
- Best Scheduling App for Personal Use
- Best Scheduling App for Professional Services
- Best Group Scheduling App
- Best Scheduling App for Small Teams in Retail or Hospitality
- Best Scheduling App for Creative Solopreneurs
- Best Scheduling App for Small Private Health Practitioners
- Features to Look For In a Business Scheduling App
- How to Choose the Best Scheduling App for Your Business
- Grow Your Small Field Service Business From Anywhere
How We Chose the Best Small Business Scheduling Apps
At Housecall Pro, we’ve been around the block a few times and have some insights into what makes a great scheduling software and what doesn’t. And that’s why we’re not just going to do a quick search on Google for scheduling apps and throw a list at you, leaving you to flounder. We’ve done the due diligence for you, considering the following super-important factors.
- Usability: We looked for apps that are easy to set up, simple to learn, and intuitive to use so you and your team can spend less time figuring things out and more time helping customers.
- Scalability: Your business is growing, and your scheduling app should grow with it. We focused on options that can handle increased bookings, additional team members, and new features as your needs evolve.
- Positive Reviews and Reputation: We dug into customer feedback and ratings to find apps that business owners trust and recommend. A proven track record speaks volumes about how well the app works.
- Customization Options: Every business is unique. We selected apps that allow you to tailor scheduling features, notifications, and settings to match your workflow and customer preferences.
And so, without further ado, let’s get into our list of the best small business scheduling apps to help your business be as successful as it can be.
Best Scheduling App for Small Field Service Businesses
For businesses like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, landscaping, and more, managing appointments, teams, and travel time can feel overwhelming. The right scheduling app simplifies it all, helping you stay avoid scheduling conflicts and focus on delivering great service.
1. Housecall Pro
Of course, we’re going to start with our own app—the best scheduling app for small businesses. At Housecall Pro, we simplify technician scheduling and so much more, helping you save time, keep customers happy, and manage your growing business. From employee scheduling, booking tools, and managing jobs to tracking teams, it’s all about making your day-to-day operations easier.
People are doing more and more on their mobile apps, and that includes scheduling services and repairs. But you also want the ability to stay connected on the go with iOS and Android support. Why not invest in a tool that lets you stay on top of your workstream with the comfort of your mobile device?
Here’s what you can expect with Housecall Pro’s scheduling software and mobile app for growing your small business:
Features:
- Color-Coded Calendar: Assign and manage jobs with a user-friendly interface and color-coded schedules to keep everyone visible.
- Drag and Drop Scheduling: Quickly move appointments into free time slots around to adjust schedules.
- Instant Dispatching: Dispatch scheduled job details to your team in just a few clicks.
- Auto Scheduling Reminders: Reduce no-shows with automatic SMS reminders.
- Vehicle GPS Tracking: Monitor vehicles to improve route efficiency.
- Employee Time Tracking: Track team hours for payroll and accountability.
- Service Plans: Create and manage recurring service agreements you can schedule days, weeks, and months in advance.
- 24/7 Online Booking: Today’s consumers want convenience and they love immediate gratification. Let customers schedule services via your online booking feature at a time that works best for them.
- Reserve With Google Integration: Adds a booking button to your Google Business Profile so visitors can book appointments with you directly from Google Search or Maps.
Pricing: Starts at $79 per month for one user, with advanced tools available.
Best Scheduling App for General Businesses
Service businesses aren’t the only ones that need access to solid scheduling & online booking tools. And it can be so frustrating to email someone back and forth to find a time that works for both parties to meet. This next app makes the scheduling process for one-on-ones or even group meetings easier than ever.
2. Calendly
Calendly is a simple yet powerful scheduling tool designed for businesses of all kinds. It eliminates the back-and-forth of finding the perfect time by allowing others to book directly into your calendar based on your availability. Whether it’s one-on-one sessions, group meetings, or team events, Calendly helps you stay organized and efficient.
Features:
- Sync with Calendars: Connect seamlessly with Google, Outlook, and Exchange calendars to avoid double-booking and manage your schedule effortlessly.
- Customizable Availability: Set specific times when you’re available and let Calendly handle the rest.
- Meeting Polls: Allow participants to vote on the best meeting time, ensuring everyone’s schedule aligns.
- Browser Extensions: Book or share your scheduling link easily with extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and more.
Mobile Devices: Available from the App Store and Google Play.
Pricing: Starts free, with the Standard plan available for $10 per month per user.
Best Scheduling App for Salons, Spas, and Fitness Studios
Scheduling for salons, spas, and fitness studios comes with unique challenges. A haircut might take just 15 minutes, while a color treatment can stretch to two hours or more. Fitness clients may prefer quick 20-minute sessions a few times a week or longer, less frequent workouts. Spa treatments vary, too, requiring flexible, tailored scheduling tools to keep things organized.
This makes scheduling apps an absolute non-negotiable.
3. Vagaro
Vagaro is a scheduling and business management tool designed specifically for salons, spas, and fitness studios. In addition to managing appointments, Vagaro allows you to list your business as a service provider, making it easier for new clients to find and book your services. It combines scheduling, sales, and payments into one convenient platform.
Features:
- Online Bookings: Let clients book appointments directly, anytime, through Vagaro or your website.
- Notifications and Reminders: Receive alerts and send automated reminders to clients to reduce missed appointments.
- Online Store Integration: Link your online store to sell products, gift cards, or memberships alongside your services.
- Payment Processing: Accept payments securely and easily, with options for in-person and online transactions.
Mobile Devices: Available on both Apple and Android.
Pricing: Starts at $30 per month per bookable calendar.
Best Scheduling App for Small Online Businesses
Even small businesses can benefit from help with their calendars and scheduling. Why risk missing an appointment when technology can help you know where you need to be and when you need to be there?
4. Acuity Scheduling
Acuity Scheduling allows clients to book their own appointments based on your availability, giving you more time to focus on running your business. With options to customize your scheduler and integrate it into your website, Acuity helps you create a seamless experience for your customers.
Features:
- Client Self-Scheduling: Let clients book and reschedule appointments on their own, saving you time.
- Customization Options: Add your brand colors and logo to create a polished, personalized look.
- Website Integration: Embed the scheduler directly into your website for easy access.
- Accounting Integration: Connect with QuickBooks and FreshBooks to streamline invoicing and accounting.
Mobile Devices: Available on both iOS and Android.
Pricing: Starts at $16 per month for emerging businesses, with the $27 per month plan recommended for growing businesses.
Best Scheduling App for Personal Use
Do you ever feel like your personal life is getting out of control? Perhaps you are overscheduled and overcommitted? It happens to the best of us. And part of the problem is manual calendarization efforts that are hard to update and easy to misplace. So why not embrace technology to help stay on top of your engagements and create some boundaries for your work-life balance?
5. Google Calendar
Google Calendar is a reliable and user-friendly scheduling tool perfect for personal use. With its simple design and flawless integration across devices, it helps you manage your schedule, set boundaries, and stay on top of all your commitments.
Features:
- Appointment Scheduling: Easily set up and manage appointments based on your availability.
- Automated Email Reminders: Get notified about upcoming events so you never miss a commitment.
- Email Verification: Prevent spam bookings by requiring email confirmation for appointments.
- Multiple Calendars: Manage different calendars for work, family, and personal life all in one app.
Mobile Devices: Available on Android and Apple.
Pricing: Free with a Google account; paid plans for businesses start at $6 per user per month with the Business Starter plan.
Best Scheduling App for Professional Services
Professional services—like consulting, accounting, legal work, or coaching—require precise scheduling to manage client appointments, deadlines, and follow-ups. The challenge lies in juggling multiple calendars, accommodating client needs, and keeping things organized without overbooking.
6. Appointlet
Appointlet helps you manage client appointments with ease, allowing you to share availability, coordinate meetings, and stay on top of your schedule.
Features:
- Share Availability: Send a single link to let clients view your availability and book a meeting that works for both of you.
- Manage Existing Meetings: Keep track of upcoming appointments and make updates as needed.
- Website Integration: Add a customizable scheduling page directly to your website for easy client access.
- Cancellation and Rescheduling: Allow clients to make changes to their appointments without hassle.
Mobile Devices: Available on Apple and Chrome.
Pricing: Free for up to 5 members with unlimited meetings; $8 per month per member for advanced features like automated reminders, manual booking confirmations, payment collection, and Zapier integration.
Best Group Scheduling App
We all know how tricky it can be to manage group calendars—it’s much like herding cats. That’s why a group scheduling app will not only make your life easier, but it will make sure people know where they need to be and when they need to be there.
7. Doodle
Doodle takes the headache out of coordinating meetings, events, or appointments by allowing participants to vote on the best time. Whether you’re managing a team project or organizing a social event, Doodle keeps everyone on the same page with ease.
Features:
- Group Polling: Create polls to find the most convenient meeting time for all participants.
- Integrations: Connect seamlessly with Outlook, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Zoom, Zapier, Stripe, and more to keep your scheduling and tools in sync.
- Custom Branding: Personalize booking pages and sign-up sheets with your own logo and colors on the Pro plan.
- Unlimited 1:1s and Booking Pages: Manage individual appointments and share booking links without restrictions.
Mobile Devices: Available on iOS and Android.
Pricing: Free for individuals getting started. The Pro plan, which is ad-free and offers additional features, is $6.96 per month per user.
Best Scheduling App for Small Teams in Retail or Hospitality
Scheduling in retail and hospitality can be challenging, with shifting peak hours, a variety of employee roles, and changing availability. From managing part-time staff to covering busy shifts, small teams in these industries need a reliable tool to keep operations running without fail and make sure everyone is on the same page.
8. Homebase
Homebase is an all-in-one scheduling and time management tool built for small teams in retail and hospitality. It helps simplify staff scheduling, time tracking, and payroll so you can focus on running your business. With tools for team communication and shift management, Homebase keeps everyone organized and connected.
Features:
- Advanced Scheduling: Easily create and share employee schedules to match your business needs.
- Time Clocks and Timesheets: Track hours worked with digital time clocks and generate timesheet reports for payroll.
- Team Communication: Send messages, updates, and shift reminders to keep everyone on the same page.
- Payroll Add-On: Simplify payroll with integrated tools for accurate pay and tax calculations.
Mobile Devices: Available for Apple and Android.
Pricing: Starts with a free Basic plan; the Essentials plan is $20 per month with unlimited employees.
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On average, Pros increase monthly revenue generated through Housecall Pro by 50% after their first year.
See plan options and feature breakdown on our pricing page.
Best Scheduling App for Creative Solopreneurs
One of the benefits of being a solopreneur is the ability to make your own schedule, set your own hours, and decide how you are going to tackle each day. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have meetings and appointments now and then. And when you do, you want to make sure you are where you need to be.
9. HoneyBook
HoneyBook is designed for creative solopreneurs to manage their schedules, projects, and client interactions in one place. From sending proposals to handling payments, HoneyBook simplifies the process of running your business so you can focus on what you love most—your creative work.
Features:
- Scheduling: Book meetings and appointments effortlessly while keeping your calendar organized.
- Online Contracts and Invoices: Send and manage contracts, invoices, and payments all in one platform.
- Proposals: Create professional proposals to impress your clients and simplify the booking process.
- Payment Integration: Accept and track payments securely, making transactions convenient for you and your clients.
Mobile Devices: Available on Apple and Android.
Pricing: Starts at $16 per month, billed annually.
Best Scheduling App for Small Private Health Practitioners
For small private health practitioners—like therapists, chiropractors, or nutritionists—managing appointments efficiently is so important to running a practice. From juggling patient bookings to handling cancellations and reminders, a reliable scheduling app helps you stay organized, reduce no-shows, and provide a positive experience for your patients.
10. Simple Practice
SimplePractice is an all-in-one solution designed specifically for small private health practitioners. It simplifies appointment scheduling, billing, and patient care management, so you can focus on helping your clients.
Features:
- Scheduling: Easily book and manage patient appointments while keeping your calendar organized.
- Billing and Payments: Handle invoices, accept payments, and track billing in one place.
- Telehealth: Offer secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual appointments for remote care.
- ePrescribe: Simplify and organize prescription management with digital prescribing tools.
Mobile App: Available on Apple and Android for on-the-go access.
Pricing: Starts at $17.40 per month.
Features to Look For In a Business Scheduling App
We highly recommend that you avoid the temptation to simply sign up for the first scheduling app you come across. The truth is that what you need might not be offered in the first app you see. Take some time to do your homework. Specifically, look for these features and see how they align with your unique business needs.
- Customizable Scheduling: Adjust appointment settings to fit your specific needs.
- Calendar Syncing: Keep your schedule organized across multiple calendars.
- Customer History: Access past appointment details and client records.
- Online Booking: Allow customers to schedule appointments at their convenience.
- Time Tracking: Monitor hours worked for better time management.
- GPS Tracking: Track team locations for efficient scheduling and travel.
- Automated Notifications: Send reminders to clients and staff about upcoming appointments.
- Invoicing & Payments: Handle billing and payments directly within the app.
How to Choose the Best Scheduling App for Your Business
Still need help choosing the right small business scheduling app? Here are some additional tips on making sure you choose the best appointment scheduling app.
- Identify Business Needs: Determine what you need the app to do based on your daily operations.
- Prioritize Key Features: Focus on the features that matter most to your business.
- Evaluate User Experience: If an app feels too cumbersome to use, you’re less likely to stick with it.
- Assess Pricing: The lowest price doesn’t always mean the best value—consider what you’re getting for the cost.
- Get a Free Trial: Many apps offer a short trial period. For example, Housecall Pro provides a 14-day free trial to help you explore its features and decide if it’s the right fit.
- Analyze Customer Support: Look for apps with responsive support to assist when you need help.
Grow Your Small Field Service Business From Anywhere
We know how important business growth is to entrepreneurs. But when you can’t manage your schedule effectively, the chances are that you aren’t going to grow at your desired rate. In fact, poor schedule management can work against you in the worst of ways, quickly depleting your business revenue and lessening the customer experience.
With Housecall Pro, we’re confident you’ll find all the features you need to manage your services business from anywhere and everywhere. Ready to get started? Start your free trial today.
