SpaWorks 4K: Cutting Edge Spa Management Software in a Unique Context. The Distinctive Software for Spas.

SpaWorks 4K is brand new for 2021, and leverages cutting edge technology in computing power and user interface design. Moreover, SpaWorks 4K boldly implements a unique implementation model which some business operators may find more advantageous compared to the conventional products available.

SpaWorks 4K is in latter phases of development as of April, 2021. We are seeking a spa to serve as beta test site in exchange for one year complimentary use of the software. Please contact michael@spaworks.com

SpaWorks 4K is an integrated local appliance.

SpaWorks 4K is unique among spa management applications. Rather than running in a browser window, which is the current trend, SpaWorks 4K runs as a desktop program on a dedicated computer ("appliance"). This appliance runs SpaWorks 4K only. 

This means that the computer upon which SpaWorks 4K resides cannot be multitasked to check email, surf the web, or watch videos. Some users may find this to be a drawback, in that they must use another (their regular) computer for these tasks.

However, many business owners may be relieved that staff will not be distracted by such activities. Further, this environment significantly reduces the risk of the operational computer being infected with malware, or suffering misconfigurations which interfere with critical business operations.

How is SpaWorks 4K installed?

Because SpaWorks 4K is software which resides locally rather than browser-based, the question of how it is installed naturally arises. The traditional model required an on-site installation team, and ongoing local IT support (contracted or in-house) to maintain the installation and troubleshoot problems.

The SpaWorks 4K model is unique. The software is pre-installed on the dedicated appliance computers, and shipped to the spa, ready to go.

The computers are  packaged together with the software. The hardware and software are included together in the price.

This model eliminates the traditional complications of assuring that user-provided hardware meets specifications, as well as the expense of onsite installers and their travel costs.

How is SpaWorks 4K serviced? The 30 minute no-fault resolution.

We understand that a busy spa cannot afford downtime, and staff don't have the capacity to spend lengthy periods of time on the telephone troubleshooting. If a malfunctioning computer cannot be repaired within 30 minutes after you have notified out technical support, then we will recommend that you standby appliance be immediately substituted in its place. Some SpaWorks 4K service agreements include an on-site standby computer

We have eliminated the typical  disputes and finger pointing around whether a malfunctioning installation is the result of "hardware" or "software." No matter what the reason, if the issue cannot be resolved by our technical support within thirty minutes, a replacement appliance will be express shipped (or delivered) to you for next day arrival where physically  possible. This no-fault service is possible because of our appliance model wherein we have bundled both hardware and software as our product

(Please note that depending on which service level you purchase, you may be responsible for one-way shipping cost and for hardware damage caused by negligence on your part, if any. Some plans may cover all forms of damage.)


Where does the data reside?

Again, the SpaWorks 4K model is unique. Rather than your data being entrusted to the software provider which outsources to unspecified public "cloud" providers, SpaWorks 4K  provides two options:

The all-local  option:

You can purchase a pre-configured data server appliance from us which you house on-premises. This gives you the maximum security and control over your data, and may increase data access speed because communications occur over your local network rather than the internet. In this scenario, your system will continue to operate even if your internet connection goes down. This solution may also be desirable for remotely located spas with poor internet connectivity. A limitation of this all-local approach is that online customer bookings are more difficult to engineer, although it  may be possible with a high-speed internet connection and  professional firewall hardware.

The hybrid option:

Although SpaWorks 4K application runs locally (not in a browser), it will connect to your underlying data via the internet. Your data will reside on a  database hosted by a high-quality and reliable  B2B (not consumer) service.  This option strikes a balance between, on one hand, the high-security but resource overhead of purchasing and situating your own physical on-premises server; and on the other hand the lower upfront cost but loss-of-complete-control associated with a remote database. The hybrid option is ideal for online customer bookings, in that the data is more readily accessible when hosted at a Microsoft datacentre than at your own premises.

Two database options:

The SpaWorks4K  code is written such that it can be driven by either a MySQL database or Microsoft SQL Server ("MSSQL") database. The former is our standard configuration. However, a spa which has already invested (or wishes to invest) in MSSQL in-house, or in the cloud,  can configure SpaWorks 4K accordingly.

   

Features of SpaWorks 4K

Multi-guest folios

Group multiple guests together for easy tracking and payment.


Drag and drop user interface

Easily drag and drop services and products into a guest folio, and drag services onto open tables to book.


Multiple price categories

Create multiple pricing tiers (e.g., "Retail," "Professional," "Senior," "Local." Assign distinct retail prices to services depending on tier.


Create and sell packages 

Services may be grouped together to sell as a package. Unlimited number of packages allowed with unlimited number of included services.


Retail product inventory and sales

Track retail inventory with par numbers.


Bookings in five-minute resolution

Time slider control allows viewing spa status and booking appointments in five-minute increments.


Cleanup times

Software can be configured with distinct cleanup time for each treatment type. Booking will not be allowed during this time.


Integrated point of sale


Tip distribution


Multiple tax lines

Software allows for up to three distinct sales tax types.


Unlimited provider profiles


Provider scheduling


Reporting


Emails to clients


SMS to clients


Online booking


Multiple tables/stations per room

Rooms can be configured with one or more treatment tables/stations to accommodate couples therapies or group situations.

Problems solved by SpaWorks 4K operations model:

ProblemSolution
Hardware CompatabilitySpaWorks 4K is supplied with the computer. Spa provides keyboard, mouse, and monitor of its choice.
InstallationSpaWorks 4K is pre-installed on computers which are supplied.
TroubleshootingIf problem cannot be solved within 30 minutes, swap out computer for a spare with SpaWorks4K pre-installed.
Where is my data?Data is stored in either MySQL or MSSQL databases locally or remotely (your choice), remains your property, and is available for your retrieval.
Limitations of browser-based softwareSpaWorks 4K is a desktop application which resides on each local computer.
The blame gameSpaWorks 4K support is no-fault. If something is not working, swap out the computer. A replacement spare will be sent.
Staff misuses computer, distracts from work and/or corrupts installationComputer is locked down for SpaWorks 4K use only.

The designers and programmers of SpaWorks 4K are experienced.

The original version of SpaWorks was developed in 1999 and installed at multiple spas. SpaWorks 4K is a major rewrite which leverages superior processing power, graphical capabilities, and hardware technology currently available.

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