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How to create your own project templates

Save time on every new project by building reusable templates that match your workflow.

Written by Claire Scattini

What's a template?

A template is an empty project structure you can duplicate and reuse. It includes your standard schedules, boards, and pinboards—without any products, images, or dates.


Creating a template in 5 steps

You can create your own project templates in Programa and duplicate them as needed into your actual projects to streamline structure and organization.

1. Start a new project

Name it clearly so you can find it later.

  • [Studio Name] Template - Residential

  • [Studio Name] Template - Commercial

2. Add schedules

Create your standard schedules with section names only (no products). For example:

  • FF&E Schedule → sections: Living Room, Kitchen, Bedrooms

  • Lighting Schedule → sections: Ceiling, Table, Floor

  • Fabric Schedule → sections: Upholstery, Curtains, Cushions

3. Set up pinboards

Create pinboards and add sections (no images). For example:

  • Concept Board → sections: Inspiration, Colors, Textures

  • Material Palette → sections: Flooring, Walls, Fabrics

4. Add project management boards

Create boards with your standard phases and task names (no dates). For example:

  • Concept Design → tasks: Client brief, Space planning, Present boards

  • Procurement → tasks: Quote requests, Order products, Track deliveries

Note: Always create your phases first!

5. Configure settings

Review project settings:

  • Schedule visibility preferences

  • Client dashboard defaults

  • Custom specs fields you always use


Using your template

To start a new project:

  1. Find your template in the project list

  2. Click the three dots → Duplicate

  3. Rename with your new project name

  4. Update project settings with client details

Done! Now add your project-specific content.


Template tips

✅ Keep it simple—structure only, no content

✅ Organize by how you actually work (by room, by category, by phase)

✅ Update your template as your process improves

Remember: Changes to duplicated projects don't affect your original template.


Quick checklist

  • [ ] Create project with clear template name

  • [ ] Add schedules with sections (no products)

  • [ ] Add pinboards with sections (no images)

  • [ ] Add boards with tasks (no dates)

  • [ ] Review settings

  • [ ] Test by duplicating

  • [ ] Start using it!


Need help? Contact our support team—we're happy to help you set up templates for your workflow.

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