I cook mine in the crockpot on low all day. I have even cooked it over night to have it done before I leave for work. I don't like to leave the crockpot on when no one is home.
I used to brown on all sides, before putting it in the crockpot. I thnk most people do that and I understand the bits and the carameling is tasty. But one time I FORGOT! and honestly, I didn't think the flavor was off.. So now I skip that part.
I season it up with salt & pepper, add water or stock, worchestshire sauce or red wine, some herbs. Just let it go... 6 hours or so it's done.
I usually make the vegetables separate (green beans or salad) or I put them (carrots) in for a couple hours before meal time. I don't like the potatoes made with the roast. I boil and mash them.
Half the time I make gravy, the other half I serve it au juis. Depends on how lazy I am. LOL.
I think this type of meal is hard to mess up but people really enjoy it. It seems more complicated than it is. the slow and low method makes the meat fall part..... great for sammies or putting over rice or noodles the next day.