This article analyzes two reservation management systems for dog agility clubs: AgilityFinder and BookyWay. Although both provide online booking and class management features, our examination uncovers notable distinctions in their methods, functionalities, and value proposition for agility club owners.
AgilityFinder is a dedicated platform linking dog owners to agility clubs and courses, providing a free app for handlers and an extensive ClubManager system for club leaders and coaches. Developed by seasoned agility competitors who comprehend the unique difficulties of managing an agility club.
BookyWay is a versatile booking application intended to be tailored for any enterprise needing reservations, ranging from gyms to driving schools. It claims to be the most affordable booking platform with a unique pay-per-member model.
TL;DR
For dedicated agility clubs seeking growth and efficient operations, AgilityFinder represents the superior investment despite its monthly subscription model. Its specialized features for handling multiple dogs per handler, automatic member discovery through its network, and deep understanding of agility training workflows provide value that significantly outweighs BookyWay's one-time payment advantage. Choose BookyWay only if you run a multi-purpose facility where agility is just one of many activities offered.
Cost Comparison
| Feature | AgilityFinder ClubManager | BookyWay |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Puppy: €8.99/month (16 lessons month) Pro: €16.99/month (32 month) Championship: €29.99/month (unlimited sessions) | No subscription model - €1.50 one-time payment per new member after 30 days |
| Testing Phase | 60 days free promotion | 30 days free for all new members |
| Payment Structure | Monthly subscription fees | One-time payments |
| Cost Predictability | Fixed monthly expense | Variable |
| Additional Members Cost | Included in plan limits | €1.50 per member after initial 30 days |
Feature Comparison
| Functionality | AgilityFinder | BookyWay |
|---|---|---|
| Class Reservation | ✅ Tailored for agility | ✅ Universal system |
| Repeating Classes | ✅ One-click creation | ✅ Manual configuration |
| Automated Waitlists | ✅ Integrated | ✅ Integrated |
| Member Mobile Application | ✅ Complimentary exclusive app | ✅ All-encompassing app |
| Several Dogs per Handler | ✅ Native support | ⚠️ Feasible but not inherent |
| Tracking Progress | ✅ For every dog | ❌ Non-specific only |
| Communication Tailored for Agility | ✅ Customized templates | ❌ Only generic |
| New Member Detection | ✅ Automated via app network | ❌ Lacks network impact |
| Club Visibility | ✅ Appears in handler app | ❌ Only your company shown |
| Request for Membership | ✅ Integrated system | ⚠️ Hand-operated method |
Advantages and Disadvantages
AgilityFinder
Advantages:
- ✅ Built for agility: Sport-specific features, terminology, and workflows
- ✅ Member acquisition: Automatic club discovery attracts new members
- ✅ Complete tracking: Individual profiles and progress for multiple dogs
- ✅ Expert support: Team with agility domain knowledge
- ✅ Free trial: 60 days without credit card
- ✅ Mobile-ready: Optimized for field use during training
- ✅ Free member app: No charges for handlers (iOS and Android app)
Drawbacks:
- ❌ Higher cost: €8.99-29.99 monthly subscription
- ❌ Continuous payments: Ongoing costs regardless of club size
- ❌ Limited flexibility: Specialized in agility activities
BookyWay
Advantages:
- ✅ Low cost: €1.50 one-time per member (after 30 days free)
- ✅ Fewer subscriptions: Pay per member, limited recurring fees
- ✅ User-friendly: Simple interface, but not tailored to agility
- ✅ Versatile: Works for any business type
Drawbacks:
- ❌ Generic system: No agility-specific features
- ❌ No member discovery: Won't attract new members
- ❌ Basic tracking: Limited analytics and progress monitoring
- ❌ Generic support: Team lacks agility expertise
- ❌ Manual setup: Requires customization for agility needs
Suggested Use Cases
AgilityFinder
- Exclusive Agility Clubs - The unique characteristics warrant the monthly expenditure
- Expanding Training Enterprises - The network effect aids in drawing in new participants
- Clubs Focused on Competition - Essential to monitor progress and manage skills
- Multiple Instructor Management - Complete oversight solutions for intricate timetables
- Organizations Pursuing Career Advancement - Integrated resources for expanding operations
BookyWay
- Versatile Training Facilities - Ability to accommodate diverse activities
- Tiny Informal Groups - Minimal one-time expense attractive for casual arrangements
- Consistent Membership Groups - Single payment advantages clubs with minimal turnover
- Companies Providing Various Services - Capable of handling non-agility tasks as well
Final Recommendation
Although BookyWay provides an appealing single payment option for standard booking requirements, AgilityFinder stands out as the better option for dedicated agility club proprietors. The platform's extensive grasp of agility training processes, along with capabilities such as automatic member identification and multi-dog handling, offers benefits that significantly outweigh the small monthly cost.
Key Decision Factors:
- Specialization is Key: AgilityFinder's tailored design removes the need for workarounds and manual processes
- Growth Potential: The AgilityFinder network effect directly aids clubs in expanding
- Actual Ownership Cost: Time saved and increased efficiency from unique features balance out the cost difference
- Professional Reputation: Being featured on a specialized agility platform boosts trustworthiness
- Long-term Vision: Ongoing enhancement dedicated entirely to agility ensures features will adapt to the sport's requirements
For agility club owners focused on expansion and efficient operations, AgilityFinder signifies a superior long-term investment. The 60-day free trial provides a comprehensive assessment without monetary concerns, and the targeted features will probably justify their cost by enhancing efficiency and member contentment.
BookyWay continues to be a suitable choice for versatile facilities or established clubs where agility is among various activities, while dedicated agility businesses will discover that AgilityFinder's specialized method yields better outcomes.