Application mode controls how participants enter an event. Choose it deliberately. The best mode depends on whether the event is curated, open to applicants, or a mix of invited and public participants.
Application modes
- Manual: staff add participants directly. Use this for invite-only or internally curated events.
- Portal: applicants use public application forms. Use this when applicants should enter their own details, answer questions, and accept terms.
- Both: staff can add participants and applicants can apply online. Use this when the event combines invited participants and public applications.
How to choose
Create or edit the event
Open the Application Forms step or Forms tab.
Select Manual, Portal, or Both
Choose the route that matches your intake process.
Configure forms if using Portal or Both
Add form wording, allowed types, catalogue choices, questions, terms, and deadline.
Save and test
Submit a test application before sharing a public link.
Before you share the route
- Check whether applicants should choose dates, catalogue items, documents, or only submit basic details.
- Confirm staff know whether manual additions should bypass public forms or use the same review route.
- If using Both, agree how the team will spot duplicate manual and online entries.
Manual is controlled and staff-led. Portal is better when applicants should enter their own details and accept terms. Both is useful, but it needs careful status review so the same participant is not counted twice.
Managing trader applications for a market or festival?
Collect trader, stallholder, food vendor, exhibitor and trade stand applications, then review documents, track payments, approve applicants and check them in from the same event.
Related articles
Manage Event Application Forms
Create, edit, pause, close, and share event-specific application forms for different applicant groups.
Build Event Application Questions
Ask clear questions, collect useful files, and avoid making applicants fight the form before your team even reviews them.
Share Public Links Safely
Know which SmartGig links are public, private, personal, or operational before sharing application forms, portals, ticket pages, driver links, site plans, or technician links.