When You Need This
You need tool configuration when:- The expert shows a Configure or Reconfigure button.
- A warning badge appears on the expert page.
- The expert says it cannot access a connected service.
Configuration Flow
- Open the expert page.
- Click Configure.
- Complete each service in the left sidebar until all show checkmarks.
- Save and test in chat.
Credential Types
| Type | What You Enter | Best For | Common Pitfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connect Account (OAuth) | Sign in + approve permissions | Google, Notion, other OAuth apps | Popup blocked or wrong account selected |
| API Key | Key from provider dashboard | Service APIs with static keys | Expired/revoked key |
| Bearer Token | Token string | Services issuing scoped tokens | Token TTL expired |
| Basic Auth | Username + password | Legacy/internal services | Credentials rotated but not updated |
| Environment Variables | Field values defined by expert creator | Custom tool settings | Missing required field or wrong value format |
Quick Decision Guide
- If you see Connect Account, use that first (preferred for end users).
- If provider gives you a key string, use API Key.
- If provider gives short-lived auth tokens, use Bearer Token.
- Use Environment Variables exactly as labeled by the expert creator.
MCP Servers (for Expert Builders)
If you are creating/editing an expert and adding custom MCP servers:- Set Name, URL, and Transport.
- Click Verify before saving.
- Use MCP only when built-in hives are insufficient.
Security and Isolation
- Credentials are encrypted.
- Each user’s credentials are isolated.
- If two users hire the same expert, each user configures their own credentials.
Reconfiguring Later
Reconfigure whenever:- OAuth access was revoked.
- API keys/tokens rotated.
- New tools were added to the expert.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | What to Check | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| OAuth popup does not open | Browser popup settings | Allow popups for Braintrust domain and retry |
| Connected but tool still fails | Correct account/tenant | Reconnect with the intended account |
| API key rejected | Key scope and expiry | Generate a new key with required scope |
| Missing env field context | Field labels from creator | Ask expert owner for expected value format |
| Configure completed but warnings remain | Unsaved step in wizard | Open each service and confirm saved state |
Next Steps
Hiring Your First Expert
End-to-end hiring flow with screenshots.
Expert Fields Reference
Field-by-field guidance for expert builders.
Triggers
Run experts on a schedule or from calendar events.