Right click onto the layer you want to turn into a smart object and choose the "convert to smart object" option in the dropdown. You can also select the layer and go to filter- convert for smart filters. Double click into the smart object layer to make edits later on.
Please note: DesignPro RS doesn't recognize smart objects YET. We're working on it! You can use smart objects to create complex repeats and make quick edits, but you'll have to rasterize them before bringing the file into RS.
For additional information or support, please email support@AquarioDesign.com