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Start with a template

The fastest way to get your first application running is to start with a template. Templates come pre-built with object types, fields, layouts, and navigation already set up. You pick the one closest to what you need, add it to your workspace, and then customize from there.

Browse templates →

Step 1: Browse the template library

Go to the Engine Awesome Application Templates page and browse the available templates.

Templates cover common business use cases including:

  • CRM and contact management
  • Project management
  • Donation and nonprofit tracking
  • Service business management
  • And more

Click any template to see a description of what it includes before adding it.

Step 2: Add the template to your workspace

On the template detail page, click Use This Template to add it to your Engine Awesome workspace.

This takes a few seconds. Once complete, the template's object types, layouts, and navigation are all set up automatically in your workspace.

Not sure which template to start with? The CRM Simple template is a good default. It's a simple contact and customer management app that's easy to understand and modify.

Step 3: Explore what was added

After adding the template, open your workspace and look through what it created:

  • Settings > Object Types to see the data models and fields
  • Settings > Navigation to see how screens are organized
  • Browse the app itself to see the layouts your team will use

This gives you a clear starting point before you begin customizing.

Step 4: Customize the template

Now adjust the template to fit your actual business needs.

Add or remove fields. Go to Settings > Object Types, open any object type, and add the fields you need or remove the ones you don't. You can change field types, labels, and settings at any time.

Adjust your layouts. Open any layout in the editor to add blocks, rearrange sections, or change what fields appear on each screen.

Update your navigation. Go to Settings > Navigation to rename, reorder, or remove menu items.

You don't need to get everything perfect on the first pass. Start with the changes that matter most and adjust as you use the app.

Step 5: Add your first records

Once the template looks right, start adding real data.

  1. Click a menu item to open a list screen.
  2. Click Create New (or the + button).
  3. Fill in the fields and click Save.

Repeat for a few records to make sure the layout and fields work the way you expect.

What to do next

← PreviousQuick overviewNext →Build from scratch