FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about using Chataa for service business bookings.
What is Chataa?
Chataa is a booking platform for service businesses that combines WhatsApp bookings with a branded online booking page. You can manage services, availability, deposits, and customer bookings from one dashboard.
Does Chataa work on WhatsApp?
Yes. Customers can start bookings through WhatsApp, and you can also share a web booking link for browser bookings.
Can clients choose dates and times?
Yes. Customers only see dates and times that match your availability, booking window, and current slot availability.
Does Chataa send booking confirmations?
Yes. Confirmed bookings send a confirmation. If a service requires a deposit, the final confirmation is sent after payment is completed. Web bookings can also send an email confirmation when the customer provides an email address.
How do deposits and deposit fees work?
Deposits are available on Smart and Pro plans. When a service requires a deposit, the booking stays pending until the customer pays. The money is paid to your connected payout account, Chataa does not take commission from deposits, and Paystack processing fees still apply.
Can I speak to clients myself?
Yes. You can step in and handle customer conversations yourself whenever needed, then continue with automation afterward.
Do I need a website?
No. You can share a Chataa booking link directly, or use the branded web booking page as your public booking page.
Can I use my business WhatsApp?
Yes. Chataa supports a WhatsApp booking flow for your business, and you can still handle normal customer chats separately when needed.
Does Chataa send reminders?
Yes. Confirmed bookings can receive automated reminders, and reminder sending is included on the Pro plan.
Is Chataa only for salons?
No. Chataa works for many appointment-based businesses including salons, barbers, nail technicians, consultants, tutors, photographers, and more.
How long does setup take?
Most businesses can set up their services, availability, and booking links in just a few minutes.
Can I manage my availability?
Yes. You can set working hours, booking window limits, and service or category availability so customers only see bookable slots.
Can clients cancel or reschedule bookings?
Yes. Eligible upcoming bookings can be managed by customers. Web bookings get a manage-booking link, and WhatsApp bookings can be managed in the chat.
Can I add multiple services?
Yes. You can add multiple services with different prices and durations, and team businesses can also organize services into categories.
Do I get notified about new bookings?
Yes. Bookings appear in your dashboard immediately, and supported devices can receive push notifications.
Can Chataa help reduce missed appointments?
Yes. Deposits, confirmations, and reminders can help reduce no-shows and missed appointments.
Do clients need to download an app?
No. Clients can book through WhatsApp or the web booking page without downloading an app.
Can I use Chataa as a small business?
Yes. Chataa works for solo operators, teams, and growing service businesses.
Is Chataa available in South Africa?
Yes. Chataa is built for South African businesses and customers, with local-friendly payments and booking flows.