> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://support.getdollie.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# Setting up your Client Portal


# Introduction

The Client Portal is a powerful tool that allows your agency to provide a professional, branded interface for your clients to access their WordPress sites, invoices, and support. This guide will walk you through the setup process from start to finish.

## Benefits for Your Agency

- **Streamlined Client Management:** Manage all client interactions through a single, organized interface.
- **Professional Branding:** Customize the portal with your agency's branding for a cohesive client experience.
- **Automated Billing:** Connect Stripe to handle subscriptions and payments automatically.
- **Client Self-Service:** Reduce support overhead by giving clients access to their sites and billing information.

## Setting Up Your Client Portal

Setting up your client portal is a simple three-step process:

1. Configure portal details
2. Set up your custom domain
3. Connect Stripe for payments
---

### Step 1: Portal Details

This is where you'll establish your brand presence in the client portal.

- Navigate to **Clients → Portal Setup** in your dashboard.
- Enter your **Portal Name** (e.g., "Acme Agency Client Portal").
- Add a **Tagline** that describes your services (e.g., "WordPress Development & Support").
- Choose your **Brand Color** which will be used throughout the portal.
- Upload your **Company Logo** (recommended size: 200x50px, PNG or SVG with transparent background).
- Write a **Welcome Message** that will greet clients when they log in.
- Click **Save & Continue** to proceed to the next step.

> !Portal Setup - Step 1

**Pro Tip:** Keep your welcome message concise and friendly. Include key information about how clients can use the portal.
---

### Step 2: Domain Setup

A custom domain creates a professional experience for your clients.

- Enter your desired **Domain/Subdomain** (e.g., clients.youragency.com).
- The system will validate your domain format.
- Click **Save & Continue** to proceed.

> !Portal Setup - Step 2

**Note:** You'll configure the actual DNS records after completing the setup wizard.
---

### Step 3: Stripe Connection

Connect your Stripe account to accept payments and manage subscriptions.

- Click **Connect Your Stripe** to authorize the connection.
- You'll be redirected to Stripe to approve the connection.
- After connecting, you'll see a confirmation message.
- If you have existing Stripe customers, you can select which ones to import.
- Click **Import Selected Customers** if you've selected customers to import.
- Click **Save & Complete Setup** to finish the wizard.

> !Portal Setup - Step 3

**Pro Tip:** Only import customers that you want to manage through the client portal. You can always import additional customers later.
---

## Post-Setup Configuration

### Configuring DNS Records

After completing the wizard, you'll need to set up DNS records for your custom domain. In your domain registrar's control panel, create the following DNS record:

- **Type:** CNAME
- **Name:** @ or subdomain (depending on your setup)
- **Value:** clients.yourdomain.com
- **TTL:** 3600 (or Auto)

DNS changes typically take 24-48 hours to propagate globally.

> !DNS Configuration

**Important:** Until your DNS is properly configured, you can still access your portal through your default URL.

### Creating Products

Now that your portal is set up, you'll want to create products that your clients can purchase:

- Navigate to **Clients → Products**.
- Click **Create Product**.
- Fill in the product details:
  - **Name:** Name of your service (e.g., "WordPress Maintenance Plan")
  - **Price:** Monthly/yearly cost
  - **Description:** What's included in this service
- Configure additional options like trial periods or feature lists.
- Click **Save** to publish the product.

> !Product Creation

### Inviting Clients

Invite your clients to the portal:

- Go to **Clients → Client List**.
- Click **Add Client**.
- Enter the client's details:
  - **Email address**
  - **Name**
  - **Company**
- Click **Send Invitation**.

Your client will receive an email with login instructions.
---

## Best Practices

- **Branding Consistency:** Ensure your portal branding matches your agency website for a seamless client experience.
- **Clear Product Descriptions:** Write detailed descriptions of your services so clients understand exactly what they're purchasing.
- **Regular Updates:** Keep your products and information up-to-date to maintain client trust.
- **Onboarding Email:** Consider creating a welcome email template that introduces clients to the portal and explains how to use it.
- **Support Documentation:** Create help articles or tutorials to guide clients through common tasks in the portal.
---

## Troubleshooting

### Domain Not Working?
- Verify your DNS records are correctly configured.
- Check that 24-48 hours have passed since the DNS changes.
- Ensure there are no conflicting DNS records.

### Stripe Connection Issues?
- Verify your Stripe account is properly set up and verified.
- Check that you have the correct permissions in your Stripe account.
- Contact support if connection problems persist.

### Need More Help?
Contact our support team at **support@example.com** or through the support chat in your dashboard.
---

By following this guide, you'll have a fully functional client portal that streamlines your agency operations and provides a professional experience for your clients. The portal will help you manage billing, reduce support overhead, and create a more professional impression for your agency.