Booking with SMS Verification
Users book without any account registration at all.
The Issue with requiring Registration
As we strive to make Listeo not just a robust business directory but also an all-in-one booking platform we have to maximize the bookings per page visit rate. One obstacle we identified was the registration requirement before booking. Although on last updates Listeo has moved the registration step to after user detail input, our clients wanted a solution that entirely skipped the need for account creation. Removing registration barriers did wonders for the booking conversion rate, almost tripling bookings from the day this feature was launched. However, this raised another concern: How do we ensure that these bookings are genuine?
Simplified User verification with Phone Numbers
To sustain the remarkable increase in booking rates while adding a layer of securing booking authenticity, we found the ideal solution. Mobile phone numbers—a globally recognized unique identifier employed by the world’s most popular apps to ensure user authenticity. To implement a seamless and intuitive functionality for phone verification, we added a ‘Phone’ field to the ‘Book Now’ button. This field is not just another input; it’s preselected for user convenience and serves as the gateway to a quick phone verification with OTP code process that confirms the user’s identity. We extensively describe how it works, below.
The Mechanics of Mobile Phone Verification
Efficient Phone Number Validation
To initiate a secure yet hassle-free booking process, we’ve integrated the popular intl-tel-input library. This serves as the first layer of defense, validating worldwide phone number formats before any SMS is sent, thereby filtering out intruders and fake numbers. Being performance junkies, we only load this library’s assets (JS, CSS, and images) when the user clicks on the ‘Book Now’ button, ensuring optimal page load times.
Flexible OTP Handling
Once the phone number passes initial validation, the system proceeds to send a One-Time Password (OTP) for further verification. We offer multiple integration options for this step, either through a lean PHP library that utilizes Twilio SMS services or the free and robust WordPress SMS plugin offering over 250 gateways for you to choose from, even WhatsApp. While we strive to minimize the use of additional plugins, there are times when they are essential. In such cases, we manage the potential impact on load time by selectively loading the plugin only on the pages where it’s needed—in this case, the single listing page. This approach bypasses WordPress’s default behavior of loading plugins across the entire site. For an in-depth look at how we achieve these performance gains, refer to our +150% Backend Speed portfolio.
Seamless User Experience
After receiving the OTP, users have 30 seconds to input it for verification, with an option to resend it if needed. Upon successful verification, the booking continues on the default Listeo booking page, and a cookie is set on user browser to store the phone number and verification hash, allowing for a smoother experience on return visits.
Guest Data Reusability
We’ve added a new database table to store guest data like phone numbers, names, emails, and booking history. This not only regroups future bookings for returning guests but also paves the way for easy account creation later on. Additionally, we store user IPs and device identifiers to ensure a smooth experience even if cookies are deleted, eliminating the need for repetitive verification steps.
Consistent Booking Management
After a booking is confirmed, all the standard Listeo emails are sent to both the user and the listing owner, and the booking appears in the owner dashboard with usual details as all other bookings. For a unique booking author ID inserted into database, we utilize the phone number which is a more reliable method compared to traditional WordPress email registration, that can be susceptible to fake emails by spammers.
We answer your most asked Questions.
Why use phone numbers for user authentication?
Utilizing mobile phone numbers for user authentication offers a blend of security and user-friendliness that's hard to match. Unlike emails, which can easily be faked, every individual has a unique phone number, making it an excellent identifier for real users. This method is so reliable that it has become the standard for verifying users on many of the world's most popular apps and websites. The quick OTP verification process not only confirms that the phone number is genuine but also ensures the user behind it has legitimate intentions, thus enhancing the overall trustworthiness of the booking process.
Do users need to re-verify their number on each Booking?
No, the system is designed for user convenience. After the initial phone number verification, a cookie containing the user's phone number and a verification hash code is set on the device's browser. Additionally, should the cookie be deleted or if user browser doesn't save cookies, we've got you covered. The system stores user IPs and device identifiers in the custom guest data table, ensuring that users won't have to go through the verification process for the same device ever again!
Do unregistered users still get notified with emails?
Yes, unregistered users who have provided their email and phone number during the booking process will receive all standard Listeo notifications just like registered users. This includes booking confirmations, reminders, and follow-ups. The system is designed to maintain the same level of communication and service, regardless of whether the user has a registered account or not. This ensures a seamless and consistent experience for all users on the platform
Can we integrate SMS into more Listeo functionalities?
Absolutely, the possibilities are endless. We're currently in the process of extending SMS notifications to cover all standard Listeo alerts, providing an alternative to email notifications. This means that everything from booking confirmations to payment reminders could soon be sent via SMS. We're also considering the addition of a preference checkbox for both listing owners and users, allowing them to choose between SMS, email, or both. This feature is on our radar, but no clients have specifically requested it yet. You could be the first to bring this functionality to life on your Listeo platform. The feature would be developed exclusively for you. Rest assured, nothing will be posted and no code will be used elsewhere without your explicit consent.
Want this for your own Listeo site?
Fill out the form below and let’s discuss how we can tailor this feature to meet your specific needs. Take your Listeo site to the next level!
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