Duration & Time Settings

Configure exactly how long each service takes, including preparation and processing time.

Servicing Time

This is the main duration - how long the staff member is actively with the customer.

Quick Presets

Click preset buttons for common durations:

• 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, or 120 minutes

Custom Duration

Enter any duration in the input field.

Extra Time Options

Add additional time that's part of the service but may not require active staff attention.

Processing Time

Time when the service is "processing" without staff:

• Example: Hair color developing (45 min)
• Staff can take other clients during this time

Blocked Time Before

Buffer time before the appointment:

• Example: Room preparation (10 min)
• Prevents back-to-back bookings

Blocked Time After

Buffer time after the appointment:

• Example: Clean-up time (15 min)
• Gives breathing room between clients

Finishing Time

Additional time to complete the service:

• Example: Final styling (15 min)
• Staff returns after processing

Total duration

The system automatically calculates:

Total = Servicing + Processing + Before + After + Finishing

This is shown in the modal footer.

Use case scenarios

Scenario 1: Hair color with processing

"Full head color" service: 30 min servicing + 45 min processing + 15 min finishing = 90 min total. The staff is free during the 45-min processing time and can book another customer in that window.

Scenario 2: Massage with buffer time

"60-min massage" service: 60 min servicing + 5 min before (room prep) + 10 min after (clean-up) = 75 min total. Customers can't be booked back-to-back, the room has time to reset.

Scenario 3: Quick service, tight scheduling

"Express manicure" 20 min, no buffers. Stylists do these in rapid succession. Fixed pricing, no extras, smooth turnover.

Scenario 4: Multi-step service

"Brazilian blowout" 30 min apply + 45 min processing + 30 min wash & finish = 1h 45m total. Salon books the chair for the whole 105 minutes.

Tips

• Be honest about durations: customers notice when their 60-min booking is actually 75 min including buffers.
• Use processing time wisely: long color processings are revenue gold, you can book another customer in that window.
• Buffer time prevents stress: 5-10 min after each service gives the staff breathing room.
• Don't pad too much: 30-min services with 15 min before + 15 min after = 60-min of calendar space. Wastes capacity.
• Audit by service: if a service routinely runs over its set duration, increase it. Stress for staff and angry customers waiting.