Streamlining Vendor Scheduling at the University
In my role at the University, I have the unique opportunity to coordinate a program that welcomes small businesses to set up as vendors just outside my office. While I may not be running my own small business, I am certainly a passionate advocate for supporting them!
When I first established this initiative, managing vendor schedules through email exchanges was quite straightforward. However, as interest has grown and we now have over 15 different businesses vying to participate, maintaining a fair and organized schedule has become increasingly challenging.
I’m reaching out to gather insights and recommendations. Do any of you have experience with effective scheduling tools or methods that could accommodate multiple businesses competing for limited space? Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated as I strive to keep everything balanced and efficient.
Thank you for sharing your expertise!
One Comment
It’s great to see your commitment to supporting small businesses! As your vendor program expands, implementing a centralized scheduling tool can definitely help streamline the process. One option to consider is using platforms like **Calendly** or **Acuity Scheduling**. These tools allow vendors to book their time slots based on real-time availability, minimizing back-and-forth communications.
Additionally, using a shared calendar system, such as **Google Calendar**, can provide visibility for all involved parties. You can create a dedicated calendar for vendors that outlines their scheduled times, giving everyone an opportunity to see when spaces are occupied and when they’re open.
For further organization, consider implementing a rotational system to ensure equity among vendors. This way, everyone gets a chance to participate in prime time slots, which can keep morale high within your vendor community.
Lastly, gathering feedback from vendors on their experiences and any scheduling challenges they’ve faced can also provide valuable insights for improving the process. Best of luck with your initiative—it sounds like it’s positively impacting your campus!