Trying to choose the right software to use in your business can be difficult. Having the opportunity to see what other business owners who are already using that software think about it can be a huge help. So I was lucky enough to have Merel Purmer of The Art of Expression tell us a bit about her business and her own personal experiences with using Cliniko.
What services does your business The Art of Expression provide?
We provide counselling and art therapy services
Can you please tell me a bit about your business journey – where you started and where you are now?
I started my business in July 2014. I have slowly built my business. At first still working in a part time-job, then moving full-time in my own business and now I have 2 employees working with me.
How did you find out about Cliniko software?
I did extensive online research into the different practise management software systems. This helped me working out what exactly I wanted from a system and which one would than suit me best.
How long have you been using it?
I have been using Cliniko since January 2017
Did you try any other similar software prior to deciding on Cliniko?
No I haven’t tried anything else. I use the free trial period to find out it I liked it. Once everything is set up it does not make it easy to move to a different system. Having said that, I have not once thought about moving to a different system.
Did it take you long to learn how to use it? Did you teach yourself or did someone show you how to use it?
I taught myself how to use it. It did not take me very long to understand the main components of the Cliniko. It is very easy to navigate, I like the lay-out and all the features it has.
Cliniko has very good support. I can ask a question at any time and someone will help me out.
What is your favourite feature of Cliniko and why?
I like how from my booked client appointment I can easily add the notes for the session and create an invoice for that particular session, and Cliniko sends the invoices to Xero. The best thing is that I can give you Sarina, as my bookkeeper, access to Cliniko to create all my invoices!
I am now also using the ‘forms’ feature with my clients. I create my own customised form, for example my assessment form, and send this to my clients to fill out. Clients don’t need a laptop or any special software to fill out the form. They can access the form by following the link I send them, on their phone/tablet/computer.
Have you had any feedback from clients as to whether they like/don’t like it?
I have asked for feedback when I send of the first assessment forms and the feedback from clients is that it is easy to use. The only negative is that they have to fill out the form in one go as it does not safe anything you have entered previously.
I also use the online sessions, Telehealth, feature with clients. This has been absolutely fantastic during COVID. The connection is secure, encrypted from both ends, giving my clients the privacy and confidentiality they need. Clients have appreciated still being able to connect during COVID. Some clients still access the online sessions.
Do you use Cliniko in conjunction with any other software or apps?
Yes, I have my Xero account linked to Cliniko.
Is there anything you wish the software would do, that it doesn’t currently do?
I don’t think I am using all the features yet!
Finally, would you recommend Cliniko to other business owners in the same industry as you?
Absolutely!!
Hopefully this will help you in your business journey as you navigate your way through software selection.
Festival Bookkeeping specialise in assisting business owners with their Xero and Cliniko bookkeeping needs. You can find out more about us on our website: http://www.festivalbookkeeping.com.au/
Happy bookkeeping...
Sarina
The savvy bookkeeping blog 