Is your “Book a tour” button really a booking?

A button should describe what happens after it is pressed.

If a family chooses a time and receives immediate confirmation, “Book a tour” is accurate. If the form only sends a request for staff to review, the label should say “Request a tour”. If it leads to a general contact form, use “Ask about a tour” or change the process.

An automated email saying “We received your request” is not a confirmed booking. The message should state clearly whether the time is held, pending or unavailable.

Use one of these patterns:

Instant booking

Choose an available time. Your booking will be confirmed immediately.

Approval required

Request a preferred time. We will confirm availability before the visit is booked.

Flexible arrangement

Tell us when you are generally available and we will contact you to arrange a suitable visit.

The same rule applies to waitlists and vacancy claims. Labels, confirmations and availability statements should not create a false impression. Australian Consumer Law prohibits misleading conduct and false claims about services or availability. ^R10

Internally, test the complete workflow:

• Does the time appear in the right calendar?
• Can two families take the same slot?
• Does a staff member receive the details?
• Is the family told whom to contact?
• Can the booking be cancelled or moved?
• Does the confirmation remain accurate after staff change the event?

Practical next step: click every tour button on the site and write down exactly what a family would reasonably believe has occurred. Change either the wording or the workflow until they match.

Related guides

• How to make childcare tours easier to arrange
• Instant childcare tour booking or request a time?
• How to reduce childcare tour no-shows