Currently, there is no way to allow users to double book resources within Booked Scheduler. We want to change that.
By using various plugins, API calls and/or core code mods, we will build the functionality to allow multiple reservations on a given resource at the same time.
The initial version of this feature enhancement for Booked,is outlined as follows:
- works when you would otherwise get "There are conflicting reservations" messages
- queue is based on a first come, first served model
- all "Wait List" reservation requests will be held automatically on conflicts
- when someone deletes an existing reservation, the queue will be searched, in order, until a suitable replacement can be found
- notification of availability will be sent via email to the owner of the selected Wait List reservation, with a 'one-click' link to create the booking
Later enhancements to the software will be evaluated on user feedback/requirements and include;
- queued events are selected on a 'pre-look' basis - if the reservation can't actually be booked at the time of the notice, it will be skipped
- option to automatically create the queued reservation ("auto-accept" option) instead of notification of availability
- time-to-accept option (if the notified party does not accept the notification and create their reservation within a given timelimit, their option expires and the next queued reservation will be processed)
- ability to choose which Resources have the feature
- ability to choose which Users are able to use the feature
- Administrator Approval function to allow selected users to browse a list of pending reservations and choose the one to accept for that timeslot
- option to automatically clear other reservations in the queue once a new reservation is created
- option to notify queued reservation holders when their reservation has been deleted by the system
- various reporting functions (designed from user feedback)
The software will be released as an Open Source package, under license similar to the Booked Scheduler package.
We need your help to fund this project! All software is funded from somewhere and we are looking to the community to help us get this feature package done sooner than later.
The initial package is fairly simple and our estimate is $500 development cost for the 'initial version' list as detailed above.
Other features need more detailing and estimates as we go along, though a TOTAL estimate (the 'full list' from above, based on what we believe is desirable at this time, with our estimated details) is $2500 - $3000.
There are two ways to develop this - we can make it and charge per copy (i.e., we own the rights, with full support and upgrades, etc.) or the community can fund it up front and then it will be released as Open Source, free to all future users with an 'as-is' warranty (like Booked). We are happy to do it either way and need your feedback on what you would like to see.
If you want this feature implemented quickly (our estimate for the initial release is ONE WEEK after funding!), then make your 'promise' contribution! No funds will be charged to your account until we reach our goal (i.e., this is an "ALL or NOTHING" thing!)
The sooner we reach the goal, the sooner we get this feature started - and in your hands!
Contribute to the community and get features you need - by taking part in their development you help everyone!
