---
title: "What's the difference between Builder and Member mode?"
description: "TL;DR: Builder Mode shows the full Studio sidebar for authoring — playbooks, agents, skills, tools, connectors, secrets, and schedules. Member Mode is a simplified view for running granted playbooks and chatting for help. Members always see Member Mode; Builders can toggle between modes in Settings."
canonical_url: "https://docs.ballet.dev/articles/whats-the-difference-between-builder-and-member-mode-Aqx6fkfMp6"
md_url: "https://docs.ballet.dev/articles/whats-the-difference-between-builder-and-member-mode-Aqx6fkfMp6.md"
---
# What's the difference between Builder and Member mode?

**TL;DR:** Builder Mode shows the full Studio sidebar for authoring — playbooks, agents, skills, tools, connectors, secrets, and schedules. Member Mode is a simplified view for running granted playbooks and chatting for help. Members always see Member Mode; Builders can toggle between modes in Settings.

## Who this is for

All Ballet users. Especially helpful for teams deciding who gets Builder vs Member roles.

## What is Builder Mode?

Builder Mode is for people who **create and edit** automations. The sidebar includes:

- **Compose** (Home / Ask Ballet)
- **Browse playbooks** (Collections)
- **Agents**, **Skills**, **Tools**
- **Connectors**, **Secrets**, **Schedules**

Builders see onboarding, the full playbook editor, and the Allow/Ask permission toggle in the Console.

## What is Member Mode?

Member Mode is for people who **run** playbooks without authoring. The sidebar is simplified:

- **New chat** — ask for help or guidance
- **Playbooks** — run playbooks they have access to

Members do not see Agents, Skills, Tools, Connectors, or builder-only settings.

## How do I switch modes?

Builders toggle **Builder Mode / Member Mode** in **Settings → General**. Members cannot switch — they always see Member Mode.

## Which role should I assign?

| Role | Mode | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| **Owner** | Builder | Billing, invites, full access |
| **Builder** | Builder (toggleable) | Authoring playbooks and connectors |
| **Member** | Member only | Running approved playbooks |

## Related articles

- [What are the roles and permissions?](/articles/what-are-the-roles-and-permissions-ownerbuildermember-2BqHtHiDcq)
- [How do I navigate the Studio?](/articles/how-do-i-navigate-the-studio-sidebar-command-palette-SCbb6LqboW)
- [How do I invite users?](/articles/how-do-i-invite-users-W4ueB5UMqz)