Skip to main content

Smart Scheduler™

Barkway’s Smart Scheduler is like having a diary that looks ahead for you. Instead of just dropping a booking in the first gap, it thinks about your day and offers slots that actually make sense.

Why it’s better​

  • No clashes
    You’ll never accidentally double-book a client or overlap appointments.

  • Smoother days
    Bookings get spaced so your day flows better, without awkward gaps or wasted time.

  • Respects your hours
    Keeps to your opening times, but still lets you take a booking that runs just a few minutes past closing.

  • Follows your preferences
    You can set a “preferred hours” window (like 10:00–14:00), and Smart Scheduler will lean toward those times to keep your day centred where you like it.

  • Always practical
    Service durations and buffer times are automatically factored in, so you don’t overrun the next appointment.

When it steps in​

  • Creating a booking – if you pick a time that doesn’t work, Barkway suggests a better one.
  • Editing a booking – moving an appointment? You’ll see alternative slots that keep everything running smoothly.

Settings to check​

  • Opening hours – the scheduler won’t book outside of these.
  • Appointment buffer – the breathing room between grooms.
  • Preferred hours – optional, but handy if you want Barkway to nudge bookings into your sweet spot.
  • Scheduler type – you can switch between Smart Scheduler and Normal scheduling. Smart is the default (and what we recommend), but Normal is there if you prefer a simple more rigid first-fit approach.

Always improving​

Smart Scheduler is designed to get smarter over time. While the “learning from past bookings” feature isn’t switched on just yet, Barkway is already collecting your booking patterns in the background. This means when the feature goes live, slot suggestions will instantly start reflecting the way you actually work.

FAQ​

Will it ever book after hours?
Only by up to 10 minutes past your set closing time, so you can squeeze in a last appointment without stress.

Do I have to use the suggested slot?
Not at all. Smart Scheduler suggests — you decide.

How does it know which time is best?
Barkway looks at your schedule, opening hours, and preferences to pick the most practical slot. It’s designed to reduce conflicts and keep your day running smoothly.

🐾 With Smart Scheduler, you spend less time juggling calendars and more time grooming happy pups.