In February of 2008, a team of researchers conducted an experiment across several major cities in the United States. The theme of the questions were simple. Is the average person satisfied with the way they currently connect with local businesses? The information below contains a few of the hightlights of what they discovered.

2008 Online Scheduling Survey - Highlights

Of people have experienced trouble while attempting to schedule with a local business in the past 60 days (phone tag, unable to reach them promptly, spending an excessive amount of time, frustration).

 

Of people would prefer to book online.

 

Of people have a work environment that prohibits them from scheduling personal appointments during normal working hours (No privacy, too busy, etc.)

 

Of people expect that most local businesses will offer online scheduling by 2010.

 

Of people said that having the option of being able to schedule online would make them a more loyal customer.

Demographic Information - Highlights

Over 4,000 people particiapted in our research. All particpants resided in a major U.S. city (San Francisco, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland, San Diego and Seattle). 24% of participants were male and 76% were female. 39% of particpants had a household income between $30-50K per year. 79% of participants had a college degree or higher.

 

Methodology - Highlights

During February 2008, over 4,000 participants were asked to fill out a survey on the subject of 'scheduling with local businesses'. Participants were not paid and they were told that the survey was being conducted by an independant market research firm. Seven surveys were conducted in each of the national markets (San Francisco, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland, San Diego and Seattle). The responses from each city were gathered and then combined to create a highly-balanced national average.