This is not an app you could simply stick in the app store and expect people to come. We are planning for a more organic bottom-up approach where we focus on getting all the barbers on board say in one city and offering incentives for barbers and customers to refer others. For example, if a customer refers 3 new clients, he gets a free cut.
2. Scheduling is not new. Our benefit is more of an all inclusive service that not only offers scheduling but a service specifically focused on barbers and clients and thus includes more than just scheduling most importantly a web presence (most barbers idea of high-tech is a facebook page with pics). Note: i have not checked out hte link but will read through after work.
3. I agree this may not be the largest niche, but consider two factors:
1. limited competition can lead to domination. it's a fact that as a minority myself the general sense is that we "consume" technology built by others but not vice versa.
2. May be the potential to expand to other verticals (tattoo artists, massage therapists, salons, etc.)
I rather pivot early with feedback such as this than wait til I spent all my $$$ :)
In regards to your questions:
1. Regular customers can schedule their appointments regularly and have "VIP" status that gets them FREE haircuts as they refer the barber new clients and take advantage of exclusive promotions, think 'daily deals" the barber can push out to preferred clients.
2. There will be some push back for barbers who dont embrace technology and don't mind a simple list. However, for those who are more tech inclined and time conscious (ex. barbers on the go and barbers who joggle multiple jobs). Also, we hope ourt early adopters, young tech-savvy barbers right out of barber college (looking to build clientile) can influence that older group. I do AGREE the app has to be very simple or they wont use.
I do plan to expand to salons, massage therapists, and tattoo artists but network is mostly with barbers. The thought, "get it right for one niche" and then expand was my thinking.
Your idea for your gf is right on. I would love to hear her feedback and more on your progress.
Thanks.
3. Our view is that we provide more value than just a POS. In the vent they wish to not use the payment portion, they still have promo on the mybarberapp website, client and sched mgmt features.
- 25 min non stop work (try e.ggtimer.com for a timer to keep track)
- 5 min off (free time)
- After 3 or so pomodoro's, reward yourself with a 15-20 minute break and repeat
This technique has been very effective in everything from writing my master's thesis (which I hated) to learning web dev frameworks (such as RoR).