Overview
This lecture explains the new Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling feature, highlighting its setup, customizations, and advantages over the old Appointment Slots.
Old vs New Booking Methods
- The old “Appointment Slots” allowed users to create bookable time slots but had a messy, less user-friendly interface.
- The new “Appointment Schedules” feature is more modern, customizable, and user-friendly.
Activating Appointment Schedules
- Appointment Schedules must be enabled in Google Calendar settings under the Appointment Schedules section.
- Activate by checking the box: “Create appointment schedules instead of appointment slots.”
Creating an Appointment Schedule
- Select a block of time in your calendar to start creating an appointment schedule.
- Set a title for the schedule and proceed to adjust settings.
- Appointment duration must be at least 15 minutes (minimum allowed).
- Add multiple availability periods (e.g., different days/times per week).
- Set start and end dates to open booking windows for specific time periods.
Customization Options
- Limit how far in advance appointments can be booked (e.g., max 20 days ahead, min 12 hours before).
- Adjust availability for exceptions like holidays by marking certain days unavailable.
- Add buffer times between appointments (e.g., 5 minutes).
- Optionally limit the maximum number of bookings per day.
- Choose a color for the schedule’s calendar events.
Booking Page and Form
- Personalize the booking page photo, name, event location, or add Google Meet conferencing.
- Add a description to inform what to bring or meeting expectations.
- Booking form collects first name, last name, email, plus up to one additional custom question.
- Example: combine child’s name and class in one question if needed.
Notifications and Management
- Set email reminders (e.g., 3 days before and 30 minutes before the appointment).
- After booking, slots become unavailable to others automatically.
- Organizers can review who has booked and see their submitted information.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Appointment Slots — Old booking method in Google Calendar for time slots.
- Appointment Schedules — New, customizable, and user-friendly booking system in Google Calendar.
- Buffer Time — Extra time added between appointments.
- Booking Window — Time frame during which appointments can be scheduled.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Enable Appointment Schedules in Google Calendar settings.
- Create and customize an appointment schedule following the steps outlined above.