Google’s improved appointment scheduling feature,Appointment Schedules, will replace Appointment Slots on July 18, 2024.This update provides more flexible and efficient scheduling by allowing users to create multiple booking schedules with customizable time slots that others can book directly.
Users must manually switch to Appointment Schedules, as existing Appointment Slots will not transfer automatically.
If you do not use Google AppointmentSlots, there is no impact to you. However, read more to learn about Google’s new AppointmentSchedules feature, as this may be a useful tool from our Google Suite. Google Calendar’s appointment scheduling feature allows you to create and manage time slots that others can book with you.
Some of you may have already made the move from Google AppointmentSlotsto AppointmentSchedules. If you’ve already made the switch, read more about recent updates.
Switch From AppointmentSlotsto AppointmentSchedules
Important:Your existing Appointment Slots don’t transfer automatically to Appointment Schedules.
Until July 17, 2024, you can still create, book, and delete AppointmentSlots. However, we recommend transitioning to Appointment Schedules, as soon as possible by following the steps below.Starting July 18, 2024, you can no longer use or book Appointment Slots.To allow others to schedule appointments on your calendar, you can use AppointmentSchedules.
Select or deselect the box next to “Create Appointment Schedules instead of Appointment Slots.”
Open Google Calendar on your computer.
Click “Create” and select “Appointment schedule.” You must make the switch to Appointment schedule in Google calendar settings first.
Enter a title, set the duration, and configure your availability.
Choose a primary or secondary calendar and add co-hosts if needed.
Customize your booking page with necessary details and save your schedule.
What Are the Benefits of the New Appointment Schedules Feature?
You can set specific times for office hours and other appointments and tailor the duration of each appointment schedule. Whether you prefer short 15-minute check-ins or longer advising sessions, this feature lets you customize booking pages to meet your needs.
Rather than paying for a scheduling service, Google Appointment Schedules allows you to schedule meetings with others using your LC Google account.
You can set specific times for office hours and other appointments and tailor the duration of each appointment schedule. Whether you prefer short 15-minute check-ins or longer advising sessions, this feature lets you customize booking pages to meet your needs.
Instead of back-and-forth emails to find a suitable time for meetings, students and colleagues can view your available slots and book an appointment directly. This eliminates confusion and saves valuable time.
With the latest updates, you can create Appointment Schedules on secondary calendars. This is particularly beneficial for shared office hours or team meetings, allowing multiple users to manage and view bookings collaboratively.
You can now add up to 20 co-hosts to your Appointment Schedules, enabling collaborative hosting of meetings. Additionally, colleagues with delegate access can help manage your Appointment Schedules, ensuring your calendar stays organized and up-to-date.
The “Check calendars for availability” feature helps prevent double-booking by checking for conflicts across multiple calendars. This ensures your appointments do not overlap with existing commitments
Use Cases
Easily manage and book student appointments, ensuring that you are available when they need assistance. Students can see your availability and select a time that works for them, making the process seamless and efficient.
Coordinate meeting times with committee members by sharing your availability and allowing them to book slots. This facilitates better collaboration and ensures that meetings are scheduled at convenient times for all participants.
For projects requiring input from multiple colleagues, use the co-host feature to schedule joint meetings. This ensures everyone involved can find a suitable time and stay updated on meeting details.
To get help with Google Appointment Schedules or switching from SlotstoSchedules, please contact the IT Service Desk by sending an email toITService@lclark.edu.
