We need to have the ability to set estimates to automatically expire. Specifically, estimates for same-day service during business hours vs. weekend / holiday service. Our service company charges different rates during normal business hours, after-hours, weekends & holidays.
Problem:
Clients request immediate service during business hours but they wait to approve the estimate until after business hours. Then clients expect immediate service at the lower rates. Our current solution is for the dispatcher to set a manual timer and then delete the pending estimate when we no longer have sufficient time in the work day to complete the job. After this step is performed, the client usually calls back in confusion because they cannot see the estimate anymore. This is bad for our dispatcher, the customer gets upset and the process negatively effects return business.
Solution:
To prevent such confusion, we request an option to make estimates expire automatically. Having the expiration time / date clearly listed or highlighted on the estimate would also be helpful. Our dispatchers could work with either expiration "x minutes / hours / days" from sent or expires on a set time & date.