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How to Test Your Auction in Demo Mode

TL;DR

Demo mode lets you test your auction setup in a private environment. You can place bids, check payment flows, and make sure everything works before launch.

Author: Tom Kelly 2 min reads Oct 16, 2024

Why Test Your Auction in Demo Mode

Testing your auction before launch ensures everything runs smoothly during the live event. In demo mode, you can experience the event just like a real bidder without affecting your live auction data. It’s the best way to identify and fix issues early, train your team, and build confidence before opening to the public.

Step 1: Log In to Your Dashboard

  1. Log in to your event dashboard.
  2. Select the event you want to test.
  3. Look for the option labeled “Demo Mode” or “Try the Demo Auction.”

Step 2: Enter Demo Mode

  • Click “Enable Demo Mode.”
  • The system will create a private version of your auction.
  • This version is not visible to the public and won’t affect your reporting.

Step 3: Add or Review Items

  • Make sure your auction items are added and organized.
  • Confirm descriptions, values, and bid increments are correct.
  • Check that banners, logos, and settings display properly.

You can make adjustments at any time while in demo mode.

Step 4: Place Test Bids

  1. Register as a test bidder.
  2. Place a few sample bids on different items.
  3. Test outbid notifications, auto bid features, and popcorn bidding if enabled.
  4. Confirm everything works as expected.

This step gives you the same view your guests will experience.

Step 5: Test Checkout and Payments

  • Go through the full checkout flow as if you were a winning bidder.
  • Test the invoice process and credit card payment fields.
  • Confirm payment notifications are sent and receipts are correct.
  • Remember: No real charges are made in demo mode.

Step 6: Train Your Team

  • Invite team members or volunteers to join the demo.
  • Walk them through bidder registration, bidding, and checkout.
  • Let them practice resolving common event-day scenarios.

Team training in demo mode helps prevent confusion during your real event.

Step 7: Make Adjustments Before Launch

  • Review any issues you encountered during testing.
  • Update event settings, items, or branding as needed.
  • Disable demo mode when you’re ready to go live.

Pro Tips for Using Demo Mode

  • Test on both mobile and desktop devices.
  • Use multiple bidder accounts to simulate real activity.
  • Test features like popcorn bidding, auto bid, and buyer’s premium.
  • Confirm event branding looks clean and professional.
  • Don’t skip the checkout step—it’s where most event-day issues happen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is demo mode?

Demo mode is a private, simulated version of your auction that allows you to test bidding, checkout, and settings without affecting real data.

Can bidders see the demo auction?

No. Demo mode is private and only accessible to your account and team members you invite.

Does demo mode use real payments?

No. All transactions in demo mode are simulated and no real credit card charges are processed.

Can I test auto bid and popcorn bidding in demo mode?

Yes. All platform features work in demo mode, allowing you to fully experience the bidder journey.

Can I invite my team to test the auction?

Yes. You can invite staff or volunteers to practice bidder registration, bidding, and checkout before the live event.

Will my demo auction data affect reporting?

No. Demo activity is completely separate and does not impact your live auction reports or totals.

Can I reset the demo auction?

Yes. You can restart the demo at any time to test again or allow another team member to train.

Is demo mode required before launching?

It’s not required but highly recommended to ensure your auction is set up correctly and ready for bidders.

Can I test mobile bidding in demo mode?

Yes. Demo mode works on all devices, including mobile phones, so you can preview the exact bidder experience.

What happens after I disable demo mode?

Once you turn off demo mode, your auction returns to live setup mode, and no demo data carries over to the real event.

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Tom Kelly

Tom Kelly

Tom Kelly, TEDx speaker and CEO of CharityAuctions.com, helps nonprofits raise millions through auctions and AI. He hosts The Million Dollar Nonprofit podcast and inspires leaders to live their legacy, not just leave it.

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