> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://withforerunner.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# Overview
> Complete multi-step application processes with Workflows
Workflows in Forerunner guide you through multi-step processes like permit applications, project submissions, or compliance reviews. Each workflow combines a sequence of records into a structured path, making it clear what information is needed at each stage and tracking your progress from start to finish.
Prepare requirements to share with your Customer Success Manager
Find available workflows and begin your application
View your active workflows and see what's been completed
Submit information for each step and move forward
## What are workflows?
A workflow is a defined sequence of steps that guides you through an application or submission process. Instead of submitting separate, disconnected forms, a workflow ties everything together around a single property or location.
Each workflow includes:
| Element | Description |
| -------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Definition** | The type of workflow, such as "Building Permit Application" or "Flood Mitigation Project" |
| **Property** | The location associated with the workflow |
| **Steps** | Sequential stages, each requiring specific information |
| **Status** | Overall progress across all steps |
## How workflows work
Workflows provide a structured path through multi-step processes:
1. **Find and start** - Browse available workflows and initiate one for a specific property
2. **Complete steps** - Work through each step by creating the required records
3. **Track progress** - See which steps are complete, in progress, or still pending
4. **Get results** - Receive updates as your application moves through review
## Common workflow examples
Workflows support many types of multi-step processes:
**Permit applications** - Building permits often require multiple submissions: an initial application, supporting documents, plan review responses, and final inspections. A workflow keeps all these connected to the same property and tracks the overall application status.
**Flood mitigation projects** - Grant-funded elevation or acquisition projects may require applications, environmental reviews, cost documentation, and progress reports. Workflows ensure nothing is missed and create a complete project record.
**Compliance reviews** - Substantial improvement tracking may involve multiple inspections, cost calculations, and determination letters. A workflow organizes these chronologically and maintains the calculation history.
**Development approvals** - Site development might need zoning review, environmental assessment, stormwater management plan, and final approval. A workflow connects the full approval process.
## Workflow status
Your workflows can have several statuses:
**Not started** - You've begun the workflow but haven't completed any steps yet.
**In progress** - You've completed at least one step. The workflow shows which steps are done and which remain.
**Complete** - All required steps have been finished.
**Rejected** - One or more steps were not approved. You may be able to resubmit depending on the workflow.
## Finding your workflows
You can access your workflows in several ways:
**Workflows page** - View all your active and completed workflows organized by type. See status, property address, and last updated date for each.
**Property page** - When viewing a property, the Workflows section shows any workflows associated with that location. Start new workflows or continue existing ones from here.
**Email notifications** - You receive email updates when workflow steps are completed, need attention, or are reviewed by your community.
## Understanding workflow steps
Each step in a workflow corresponds to a specific type of record. When you complete a step, you're creating a record that becomes part of your workflow history.
Steps may be:
* **Required** - Must be completed to finish the workflow
* **Sequential** - Must be done in order, one after another
* **Visible** - Some steps may only be visible to certain user groups or roles
Your progress bar shows completed steps, helping you understand how far along you are in the process.
Workflows are configured by your community. The specific workflows available, their steps, and requirements vary based on how your community has set up their processes. If you have questions about a specific workflow, contact your community or refer to any instructions provided on the workflow page.
## Workflows vs. individual records
If you've used Forerunner before, you may have created individual records. Workflows are different:
**Individual records** are standalone submissions that may or may not be connected to each other.
**Workflows** are connected sequences where each record (step) is part of a larger process. The workflow tracks the relationship between steps and your overall progress.
When a workflow is available for a process, using it provides better visibility into your application status and ensures you don't miss required steps.
## Getting started
Ready to work with workflows? Here's how to begin:
1. **Check available workflows** - Visit the Workflows section to see what's available in your community
2. **Choose a property** - Select the property or location for your application
3. **Start a workflow** - Click the call-to-action button (like "Get started" or "Apply now") to begin
4. **Follow the steps** - Work through each step, submitting the required information
5. **Monitor progress** - Return to your workflow anytime to check status and complete remaining steps
Save your workflow URL or bookmark the workflows page. You can return anytime to continue where you left off or check on the status of your application.
## Getting help
If you need assistance with a workflow:
* **Review the description** - Each workflow includes a description explaining the process and requirements
* **Check step instructions** - Individual steps often include guidance on what information is needed
* **Contact your community** - Your local floodplain manager, building official, or community staff can answer questions about specific requirements
Workflow configuration, including which workflows are available and what steps they include, is managed by your community. Contact your community's staff if you need a workflow created or modified for a specific process.