ESS workflows clarification required

Hi ,

i am working on Ess workflows (ws12300111 ). i have copied standard workflo(ws12300111) and deleted loops and hr approval steps ,as our requirement is just sending notification to manager and mail to user after approval or rejection .

doubts:

1.) if we take step type 'send mail' in workflow builder will that mail reflect in portal inbox ,if not how do ?

2.)when i have applied leave in portal it is giving error stating that 'you are not possible agent' but i am using the standard one (given as general task at task level)?

please clarify these doubts.

Regards,

SreeHarsha