Frequently asked questions about OpenBowling

OpenBowling is a vendor-independent lane and center management system that primarily offers online booking with a deposit option. It is also equipped with numerous useful features designed to ease the workload of center operators and front-desk staff.

OpenBowling is not a scoring or billing system.

For practical use at the counter, a separate monitor (ideally a touchscreen) is strongly recommended. This allows the counter operator to keep a constant, real-time view of the booking status and easily process new bookings and check-ins.
Even manufacturer-specific systems require an additional monitor; otherwise, one would constantly have to switch between the lane/scoring system and the reservation system.

No, no installation is required! The entire system runs as a web-based application directly in your browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.). You simply access OpenBowling via OpenBowling.de in your browser.

Yes, it’s very simple. Your center will need a PayPal Business account for this (which can be set up in 5 minutes if you don't already have one). You can then configure a deposit of between 5% and 100% to be paid upon completion of an online booking. This significantly reduces no-shows.

OpenBowling is offered as a monthly subscription. You can find the detailed pricing with all included features in the pricing section on this page. There are no hidden setup costs – you only pay the monthly fee.

Yes. We offer a free trial period during which you can use all features without restriction – no credit card required and no automatic renewal. After the trial period, you decide whether to subscribe.

Yes, the platform supports multiple independent centers under one admin account. Each location has its own lanes, pricing and booking configuration. Please contact us directly for multi-location pricing.

Subscriptions are billed via SEPA direct debit or invoice. Billing takes place automatically on a monthly basis. An invoice is sent to your registered email address after every successful payment.

As an administrator, you can cancel at any time with the click of a button in the Help section under "Subscription." No email, no form.

The basic setup – creating the center, configuring lanes, setting prices – can typically be completed within a few hours. A step-by-step setup wizard guides you through all necessary steps. Our support team is available if you have questions.

OpenBowling is a browser-based web application – you only need a modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari) and an internet connection. No software installation is required.
For practical use at the counter, a separate monitor (ideally a touchscreen) is strongly recommended. This allows the counter operator to keep a constant, real-time view of the booking status and easily process new bookings and check-ins.
Even manufacturer-specific systems require an additional monitor; otherwise, one would constantly have to switch between the lane/scoring system and the reservation system.

An automated data import is currently not available. New customers register themselves through the booking portal or are created manually by the center administrator. Please contact our support for special requirements.

Yes, the display of all configuration settings and bookings is supported on mobile devices. If not everything is displayed completely, simply rotate your device to landscape mode.

You receive an individual booking link for your center, which you can embed on your website or in your communications. Customers select date, time and number of lanes and complete the booking with or without online payment.

Yes, you have full control over pricing models, time slots, special rates for weekends and holidays, as well as minimum and maximum booking durations. All settings can be adjusted at any time in the admin area without technical knowledge.

Yes. After every booking, a confirmation email with all booking details is sent automatically. Reminder emails before the appointment can also be optionally enabled. The emails are sent in your center's name.