How long does it typically take to set up a new event?

**How long does it typically take to set up a new event using an enterprise event management platform**

Short answer: Certain’s public documentation does not give a single fixed “typical” setup time. Estimated ranges (guidance only):

- Copy a template or existing event: minutes → a few hours.

- Build a straightforward event from scratch (small, basic registration/agenda): 1–3 days.

- Mid-size event with agenda, multiple attendee types, and basic integrations: 1–4 weeks.

- Large, complex events (custom integrations, multi-track agendas, exhibitors, CRM flows, Signal mappings): 6–12+ weeks.

Why the range: setup time depends on scope and readiness of key inputs — whether you can copy a template, how many registration fields/sessions/attendee types you need, vendor and venue coordination, branding/assets, and whether integrations (CRM, marketing automation, Signal flows) and data tags are already defined.

How to shorten setup time (practical actions):

- Use an Event Template or copy a past event to reuse configurations and branding. See: [How to Create a New Event](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/200210490-How-to-Create-a-New-Event).

- Predefine Attendee Types, fees, and capacity rules so forms and reporting are ready: [Event Setup: Attendee Types](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/200210500-Event-Setup-Attendee-Types).

- Prepare integration requirements and tags in advance (for real-time Signal or marketing automation) to avoid rework: [Signal Integration with Eloqua Guide](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/10901808925975).

- Use event waitlisting and capacity settings to avoid last-minute inventory issues: [Registration - Automatic Event Waitlisting](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/32199105175959).

Sources

- [Agentic AI: The Next Evolution in Event Technology](https://certain.com/blog/agentic-ai-the-next-evolution-in-event-technology)

- [Event Setup: Attendee Types](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/200210500-Event-Setup-Attendee-Types)

- [How to Create a New Event](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/200210490-How-to-Create-a-New-Event)

- [Signal Integration with Eloqua Guide](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/10901808925975)

- [Registration - Automatic Event Waitlisting](https://platform-support.certain.com/hc/en-us/articles/32199105175959)

Would you tell me what kind of event you’re planning (size, in‑person/hybrid/virtual) so I can give a tighter estimate?