After successfully installing Easy!Appointments, the next step is to configure the system to fit your business needs. The initial configuration involves setting up essential parameters such as company details, services, providers (staff), working hours, and general system preferences.
This section will walk you through each part of the initial configuration process.
1. Accessing the Admin Panel
To begin the configuration:
- Open your Easy!Appointments installation in a web browser.
- Log in using the administrator credentials created during installation.
- Click on the Admin Panel from the top navigation menu.
2. System Settings
In the Settings > System Settings section, you can define your business’s global preferences:
- Company Name: Enter your business name. This will be used in customer-facing communications.
- Company Email: Default sender email address for notifications and reminders.
- Time Zone: Set your local time zone for accurate appointment scheduling.
- Date & Time Format: Choose how dates and times are displayed throughout the platform.
- Language: Select the default language for the system interface.
- Currency: Set the currency used for any payment or price-related features (if applicable).
💡 Tip: These settings apply globally. Individual providers can have separate working hours and availability.
3. Adding Services
Navigate to Services > Add Service to define the types of appointments your business offers:
- Name: Service name (e.g., Haircut, Consultation, Massage).
- Duration: Length of the service (e.g., 30 minutes).
- Price: Optional – set the cost of the service.
- Color: Choose a color for the calendar view to easily identify the service.
- Status: Enable or disable the service.
Repeat this step for each type of service your business offers.
4. Creating Provider (Staff) Accounts
Go to Providers > Add Provider to add your team members:
- Name and Email: Used for notifications and internal communication.
- Assigned Services: Select which services each provider can perform.
- Availability: Set weekly working hours and any specific days off.
- Breaks: Add lunch or other scheduled breaks.
Each provider will receive their own login credentials and calendar.
5. Location Settings (Optional)
If your business operates in multiple locations:
- Go to Settings > Locations
- Add each location’s name and address.
- Assign providers to specific locations if needed.
6. Customizing Availability and Scheduling Rules
In the Settings > Booking Rules section, you can fine-tune scheduling behavior:
- Booking Interval: Minimum time between available slots (e.g., 15 minutes).
- Minimum Notice: How far in advance a customer can book.
- Maximum Advance Booking: How far into the future bookings can be made.
- Cancellation Policy: Minimum notice required to cancel an appointment.
7. Notifications and Reminders
Under Settings > Notifications, configure email notifications:
- Enable/disable customer and provider emails for new, updated, or canceled appointments.
- Customize email templates to include your branding or specific instructions.
🛠️ If you want SMS or WhatsApp notifications, you may need to install third-party extensions or custom integrations.
8. Testing Your Configuration
Once everything is set:
- Log out of the admin panel.
- Visit the public booking page as a customer.
- Try to book a test appointment to ensure services, availability, and notifications are working as expected.
Next Steps
After completing the initial configuration, you’re ready to start managing real appointments. We recommend continuing to the following sections:
- Using the Calendar
- Customer Management
- Advanced Customization & Add-ons