> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.maker.co/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.maker.co/maker-greatstore/apps/building-an-app.md).

# Building an app

Custom apps are for things specific to your store that the pre-installed set doesn't cover — a size finder, a bundle builder, a custom collection view.

There is no in-dashboard app editor. Apps are built by **connecting the Greatstore MCP to a coding agent** — Claude Code, Codex, or whatever agent you use — and asking it to create apps for your store. The MCP itself teaches the agent what Greatstore apps are and how to publish them. The **Install MCP** page in your admin, at `/admin/docs/mcp`, has the connection steps.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Connect the MCP

Follow **Install MCP** in the admin to add the Greatstore MCP to your coding agent.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Ask the agent to build

Describe the component you want. The agent creates it through the MCP; it appears on the **Apps** screen as a `DRAFT`.

You can also ask it to **pull your existing apps** — including the pre-installed ones — and modify them. See [App library](/maker-greatstore/apps/library.md).
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Preview

Click the app's card in **Apps** to see it rendered the way a shopper will.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Publish

Ask the same agent to publish it (or use the Apps screen). It goes `LIVE` and the assistant can start using it.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Beyond apps

The same MCP also **configures the store** — brand name, assistant name, appearance. You can ask your coding agent to make those changes instead of using the dashboard toggles.

{% hint style="warning" %}
If your component loads scripts or calls APIs on other origins, add those hosts under [Security](/maker-greatstore/configure/security.md) first — the storefront CSP blocks them otherwise.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Building apps from inside Maker AI directly is planned but not available yet — today the path is the MCP plus your own coding agent.
{% endhint %}


---

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