Salon Software Options for Beauty Shops

The future looks bright for the personal care service sector, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating that “overall employment of barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.” Yet, it’s a competitive industry, and salon owners need the right tools to differentiate their brands.

Salon software combines online booking systems, client management features, and marketing tools in a single platform. Salon owners can improve customer experiences and reduce no-shows by adding cloud-based technologies. Learn how salon management systems can help your business and explore solutions for your shop.

What is salon management software?

Salon management software is an all-in-one system for managing day-to-day operations. It centralizes booking, client profiles and notes, shared calendars, and point-of-sale (POS) functions in a single platform. The best salon software supports your unique needs and business model, with customizable stylist settings and client packages.

Unlike salon appointment apps, which focus on scheduling and cancellations, salon management systems also automate rebooking prompts, process payments, and track retail (and backbar) inventory. While general use POS and customer relationship management (CRM) systems handle sales history and contact details, salon software stores color formulas and manages commissions. 

How does salon software help stylists and salon owners?

Salon software frees up time, so stylists and salon owners can give their full attention to clients. Most tasks take less manual effort, from pulling up service notes to sending appointment reminders. Salon management software also reduces mistakes, like double-booked sessions and stockouts.

With a unified platform, salon owners can stay on top of key metrics like top-selling items and inventory costs. Many cloud-based systems let you manage business tasks from your phone, so you can check stock levels, view schedules between appointments, or update availability if a stylist calls in at the last minute.

Built-in marketing features and client scheduling tools enhance customer experiences, which is crucial for referrals and reviews. The best salon software ensures that clients hear about your latest promotion or the newest products. For busy establishments in competitive markets, the convenient features for clients, stylists, and salon owners can be a game changer.

Top salon software features 

Salon software features such as online booking tools and automated text reminders improve the client experience and increase efficiency. The capabilities that make top-rated systems stand out are those that combine functionality with visually appealing design and easy-to-use tools.

Many salon software solutions offer the following tools and features:

• Online appointment booking: Use smart scheduling tools to create seamless online client experiences. Or book appointments in person, and your salon scheduling software syncs automatically with the online system.
• Built-in payment processing: Accept any payment type in person or require a deposit for online appointments. Salon payment tools calculate taxes, discounts, and gratuities. Some services let you keep cards on file and offer no-show protection.
• Client profile management: Keep tabs on clients and build better relationships with native CRM tools. Salon software shows past client visits and purchase history. Some also allow stylists to enter notes.
• Appointment confirmations and reminders: Reduce no-shows or allow clients to reschedule with automated notifications. You can send customizable alerts via email or text before and after salon appointments.
• Staff calendar and management: Ensure stylists stay fully booked and on top of appointments with color-coded calendars and accessible apps. Owners and stylists can view working hours, availability, and sales.
• Reports and analytics: Save time crunching numbers with pre-built reports and salon-specific metrics. Many salon management programs provide analytics that show your client's rebooking rate, average ticket value, and more.
• Marketing capabilities: Several salon software systems have native text, social media, and email marketing tools. These may include templates and automated services.
• Inventory management: Salon software tracks purchases at your POS and automatically updates stock quantities. Built-in inventory management tools display stock levels, which can be accessed from any internet-connected device, so you always know when to reorder.
• Loyalty programs and gift cards: Increase repeat visits and make gift giving easy with native loyalty and gift card features.

In addition, salon owners can customize their software packages with various add-ons. Vendors may offer online stores, text marketing tools, or livestreaming services for an additional fee.

How to compare salon software pricing, features, and contract terms

Create a short list of top salon management platforms and request price quotes from each. Then break down the strengths and weaknesses of each option. Remember to note any confusing contract terms or fees so you can ask questions during a demo. The same goes for software capabilities: You can request a feature demonstration during your meeting with the sales rep. Look over the following tips for comparing salon software.

Salon software pricing models, contracts, and processing costs

Many salon management platforms use a tiered pricing structure. Base plans may allow one to two users, and then the number increases on higher-tier packages. Calculate your total monthly costs by factoring in additional fees for automated SMS or email reminders, payouts to booth renters, or marketing activities.

Here are a few details to consider:

• Users or service professionals: Consider how many users need access to the salon software, broken down by service professionals, managers, and front-desk staff. Some vendors only cap the number of stylists per tier, while others count all logins.
• Payment processing fees: Compare credit card transaction fees between salon POS software. Look for higher rates for online payments, tap-to-pay, and card-on-file authorizations. Check for hidden fees for payouts or monthly statements.
• Scalability: Determine how much more you’ll pay to hire employees, add chair renters, or open a new location. Some vendors force you into the next tier, while others add flat fees for additional users or sites.
• Payment hardware costs: Find out what type of credit card terminal you need and how much it costs. Make sure you can buy hardware outright rather than incurring fees if you cancel the service.
• Cancellation terms and costs: Review the agreement so you understand how to terminate your contract, what the notice period is, and the fees the provider might charge.

Features for solo stylists, chair renters, and salon owners

To see a return on your investment, choose salon software that supports your short- and long-term goals. Pull up your business plan and look at your top objectives. Then examine the features of each platform and determine which best align with your business model.

For example, solo stylists benefit from automation features that streamline administrative tasks, such as payment tracking and client intake forms. Some salon management systems offer booking links and multiple payment accounts for booth renters. Others offer features for medical spas or aesthetic clinics, helping you turn a trendy business idea into a profitable income stream.

Drill down into how each feature works on each platform. Look at user reviews, support pages, and YouTube videos. For a tool to be effective, it must be user-friendly for its intended audience. Test client-facing booking features, admin tools, and stylist settings. Rate each feature and see how different salon management platforms stack up.

Questions to ask before switching from your current booking and POS system

Since salon management software unifies data from several systems, there’s always a risk of losing information or experiencing downtime. And not all vendors have the support staff to answer your call promptly and resolve the situation. Meanwhile, anything that isn’t clearly listed as “free” or “unlimited” could cost money, including onboarding and customer service.

Ask the following questions before switching to a new salon management platform:

• Is there a free trial, and can I get support while testing the software? The trial period is an excellent time to identify overly complex features and interact with customer support staff. See how many logins you get, which features are available, and how long the trial lasts.
• Can you transfer and convert my data, and does it cost extra? You may have client details and sales information in booking tools, CRMs, and POS systems. Confirm what they will transfer.
• What is the typical timeline for data migration and onboarding? The vendor should be able to estimate time frames based on their experience with similarly sized salons.
• Do you offer onboarding, setup, or training resources? How much does it cost? Also, make sure you can access phone support and online help tools, including tutorials for various staff roles.
• Does the salon software integrate with your online store or accounting services? See if the vendor will help you connect systems or show which reports you need for payroll or accounting purposes.
• Can I use my existing cash drawers, printers, and tablets? If you or your stylists access payments, schedules, and messaging tools on smartphones or iPads, make sure you can keep using the same devices.
• How will switching from my booking and POS system affect clients? The vendor should provide resources for communicating changes and explain what clients and stylists should expect.
• Will you provide a full data export if I cancel services? Your client and operational data are valuable and take time to organize and export. The vendor should guarantee timely access.

Top vendors: Best salon software for solo stylists, salons, and multilocation shops

Explore popular salon software platforms and features to find the right solution for you. Look at pricing, payment processing tools, and features that improve the checkout experience and reduce no-shows. Even if you’re in the early stages of opening a business, check out upper-tier plans and add-ons to see if any of your must-have features are out of reach and if the software scales with you.

GlossGenius: Best salon management platform for solo stylists

GlossGenius helps solo stylists build a loyal client base and get more done in less time. It reminds clients of upcoming appointments and alerts you when stock levels drop. Use the software management system to track your goals and expenses while keeping tabs on your most valuable clients and revenue opportunities.

User reviews highlight several standout features, including login-free client booking, user-friendly interfaces, and responsive customer support.

• Free trial: 14 days.
• Software plans: Standard ($28 monthly), Gold ($56 monthly), and Platinum ($168).
• Processing fees: Flat 2.6% rate (no additional fees for card on file, tap to pay, or manual entry). 

Mangomint: Best multilocation salon software

Mangomint centralizes data from multiple locations so owners can manage staff, schedules, and promotions from one platform. Apply filters to the calendar to view schedules across sites and generate companywide or location-specific reports.

Clients can book services at their preferred salon and customize appointments with optional add-ons without setting up an account. Mangomint users appreciate the top-notch customer support and intuitive interface for clients and stylists.

• Free trial: 21 days.
• Software plans: Essentials ($165 monthly), Standard ($245 monthly), and Unlimited ($375 monthly).
• Processing fees: 2.45% plus 15 cents for in-person transactions and 2.90% plus 30 cents for online payments.

DaySmart Salon: Scalable salon software for owner-stylists

DaySmart Salon is a software solution for independent salon owner-stylists that scales to multiservice operations with advanced payroll and sliding scale commissions. All plans come with online booking, Instagram and Facebook scheduling, and integrated payment processing. The salon software receives positive reviews, with users finding the system easy to navigate and set up recurring appointments.

• Free trial: 14 days.
• Software plans: Basic ($29 monthly), Deluxe ($69 monthly), Deluxe Growth ($149 monthly), Premium ($199 monthly), and Premium Growth (contact for a quote).
• Processing fees: 2.6% plus 10 cents for in-person transactions and 3.1% plus 10 cents for online payments.

Salonist: Best salon management platform for unlimited stylists

Salonist makes it easier to visualize and fill open slots while organizing schedules for multiple stylists. After clients book online, Salonist instantly notifies the salon owner and stylist. Mobile apps keep stylists up to date on income details, upcoming schedules, and service history. Employee management features support custom commission structures.

• Free trial: 14 days.
• Software plans: Essential ($79 monthly), Advanced ($109 monthly), and Expert ($179 monthly).
• Processing fees: Integrate Stripe, Clover, or payment gateways.

Fresha: Low-cost salon software for wellness and beauty professionals

With Fresha, clients can book appointments on Facebook, Instagram, or Google and receive automatic appointment reminders. To save time, send a secure payment link or QR code, and clients can check out on their own devices.

Stylists use the client management tools to track service histories and store detailed notes. The salon software records product inventory levels and has advanced POS capabilities.

• Free trial: 7 days.
• Software plans: Independent ($19.95 monthly), Team ($14.95 monthly per bookable stylist), and Enterprise (contact for quote).
• Processing fees: 2.29% plus 20 cents for in-person transactions and 2.79% plus 20 cents for online payments.

CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

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