Service duration determines how long bookings last and how availability is calculated. This article explains how to set and adjust service durations.

Understanding Duration

Duration is the time allocated for a service:

  • 30 minutes for a quick haircut
  • 60 minutes for a massage
  • 120 minutes for a spa package This time is blocked on the staff calendar when a booking is made.

Setting Duration When Creating a Service

When adding a new service:

  1. Open the Add Service form
  2. Find the Duration field
  3. Enter the time in minutes
  4. Complete the service creation

Changing Duration for Existing Services

To update an existing service's duration:

  1. Open the service's detail panel
  2. Find the duration field
  3. Enter the new duration
  4. Save changes

    💡 Note: Changes affect new bookings only. Existing bookings keep their original duration.

Choosing the Right Duration

Time the Actual Service

  • Perform the service and track time
  • Include setup and wrap-up
  • Average across different providers if needed

Add Buffer If Needed

Consider adding time for:

  • Preparation before the service
  • Cleanup after
  • Brief transition time
  • Natural conversation with clients

Account for Variations

Some factors affect duration:

  • Service complexity
  • Staff experience level
  • Customer preferences Set duration for the typical case, not the fastest or slowest.

Duration Format

Enter duration as whole minutes:

Time Enter
30 minutes 30
1 hour 60
1.5 hours 90
2 hours 120

The system displays this in a readable format (e.g., "1h 30min").

Duration and Booking Slots

Duration affects available time slots:

Example: 60-minute service

Staff hours: 9 AM - 5 PM

  • 9:00 AM slot
  • 10:00 AM slot
  • 11:00 AM slot
  • 12:00 PM slot
  • 1:00 PM slot
  • 2:00 PM slot
  • 3:00 PM slot
  • 4:00 PM slot Example: 90-minute service

Staff hours: 9 AM - 5 PM

  • 9:00 AM slot
  • 10:30 AM slot
  • 12:00 PM slot
  • 1:30 PM slot
  • 3:00 PM slot Longer durations mean fewer available slots.

Duration Best Practices

Be Realistic

  • Better to overestimate slightly than rush
  • Rushed services hurt quality and customer satisfaction
  • Staff stress increases with tight timing

Review Regularly

  • Check if services consistently run over or under
  • Adjust based on actual experience
  • Consider seasonal variations

Consider Staff Differences

  • Junior staff may need more time
  • Experienced staff may be faster
  • Set duration that works for your typical team

Communicate to Customers

  • Clear duration helps customers plan
  • Especially important for longer services
  • Update booking confirmations if duration changes