SoulTrade Software

Easy Install

Two ways to get started — choose the option that suits your comfort with technology.

What is the Easy Install version?

The Easy Install version uses Docker — a free tool that packages everything the software needs (web server, database, PHP) into a single self-contained bundle. You don't need to know anything about servers or databases. Just install Docker Desktop once, then double-click to start.

1

Download and install Docker Desktop from docker.com — free, one-time

2

Download the software zip and unzip it anywhere on your computer

3

Double-click start.command (Mac) or start.bat (Windows)

4

Your browser opens automatically — the software is ready to use

Choose your option

Both versions include the full software and all features. The difference is how you install it.

Standard Self-Install

Self-Install

£45 SoleTrader
£65 CrystalSolutions & PraxisClinic
  • Full software — all features
  • Works with MAMP, XAMPP or any PHP/MySQL server
  • Ideal if you have technical help
  • Email support included
  • Requires manual database setup
  • Needs PHP/MySQL knowledge
Easy Install

Docker Version

£45 SoleTrader
£65 CrystalSolutions & PraxisClinic
  • Full software — all features
  • Double-click to install — no technical knowledge needed
  • Works on Mac and Windows
  • Email support included
  • Database set up automatically
  • Same software, easier start
Note: The Easy Install version requires Docker Desktop (free, from docker.com) and approximately 4GB of available RAM. Both versions run entirely on your own computer — your data never leaves your machine.

Choose your software

All three products are available in both Standard and Easy Install versions.

CrystalSolutions

Full holistic practice management — patients, sessions, treatment plans, accounts, MTD and more

PraxisClinic

Practice management for newly qualified practitioners — streamlined and affordable

SoleTrader

Accounts, mileage, tax summary and MTD for self-employed sole traders

Not sure which installation is right for you? See the comparison table below, the installation guide, or email us and we'll help.

Which installation is right for you?

All versions use the same software. The difference is how and where you run it.

Option Skill needed Cost Platform Network access Notes
Local machine — single user
Docker Easy Install recommended Minimal Same price Mac, Windows Local only Double-click installer. Docker Desktop required (free). Best for non-techies.
MAMP / XAMPP Some Standard price Mac, Windows Local only Install MAMP, create database, unzip files. Needs a friend to help.
Local network — multiple users
Docker on a spare Mac/PC recommended Minimal Same price Mac, Windows Full LAN Run Docker on a dedicated machine. Others connect via IP address on the same WiFi.
MAMP on a spare Mac/PC Some Standard price Mac, Windows Full LAN Same as above but using MAMP as the server. Others connect via local IP.
NAS (Synology etc.) advanced Technical Standard price NAS with Docker Full LAN Always-on, low power. Most modern NAS boxes run Docker natively — use the Docker zip directly. See NAS install guide →
Remote access — anywhere
Cloud VPS advanced Technical Standard + ~£5/mo Any Internet Same Docker zip runs on any Linux VPS (Hetzner, DigitalOcean etc.). Add HTTPS via Let’s Encrypt.
Shared web hosting Some Standard + hosting Any Internet FTP upload + phpMyAdmin SQL import. Works on Fasthosts, SiteGround etc. No Docker needed.