The Model Context Protocol (MCP) Guide for Creative Agencies: Connecting IDEs to Your Studio CRM

The Model Context Protocol (MCP), open-sourced by Anthropic, allows external AI coding environments and desktop assistants to interact seamlessly with your private studio data.

1. What is Model Context Protocol (MCP)?

Instead of copying and pasting client inquiries or invoice numbers into AI chat windows, MCP provides a standardized JSON-RPC 2.0 interface. External models can query your shoot schedules, check gear availability, and create invoices autonomously.

2. Configuring Claude Desktop & Cursor

Add the following configuration to your claude_desktop_config.json:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "cora-studio": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "@heycora/mcp-server"],
      "env": {
        "CORA_WORKSPACE_URL": "https://app.heycora.in",
        "CORA_API_TOKEN": "YOUR_WORKSPACE_BEARER_TOKEN"
      }
    }
  }
}

3. Exposed Studio MCP Tools Registry

• cora_query_leads: Searches active CRM deals and stage milestones.
• cora_create_invoice: Generates compliant 18% GST tax invoice PDFs.
• cora_check_gear_availability: Queries the studio inventory for camera body/lens conflicts.
• cora_dispatch_call_sheet: Dispatches WhatsApp call sheets to assigned crew members.