> ## 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.

# Starting a workflow

> Find available workflows and begin an application

Starting a workflow in Forerunner begins your multi-step application process. Once started, the workflow tracks your progress and guides you through each required step.

## Finding available workflows

Workflows are organized by type. Each workflow definition describes a specific process, like "Building Permit Application" or "Elevation Grant Project."

<Steps>
  <Step title="Navigate to Workflows">
    From the main navigation, go to the **Workflows** section. You'll see a list of workflow types available in your community.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select a workflow type">
    Click on a workflow type to view its overview page. This page includes:

    * **Description** - What the workflow is for and what you'll need to complete it
    * **Logo** - Visual identifier for the workflow (if configured)
    * **Call-to-action** - Button to start a new workflow or view your existing ones

    <Tip>
      Read the description carefully before starting. It often explains prerequisites, required documents, or important information about the process.
    </Tip>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review your existing workflows">
    If you've already started workflows of this type, you'll see them listed with:

    * Property address
    * Current status
    * Last edited date

    Click on any existing workflow to continue working on it.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Starting a new workflow

When you're ready to begin a new application:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Click the call-to-action button">
    Each workflow has a call-to-action button like "Get started," "Apply now," or "Begin application." Click this to start.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select a property">
    Workflows are associated with a specific property or location. You'll need to:

    * Search for the property address
    * Select the correct property from search results
    * Confirm this is the location for your application

    <Warning>
      Make sure you select the correct property. Once a workflow is created, you cannot change the associated property.
    </Warning>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Complete the initial step">
    The first step opens automatically. This is typically the initial application or request form. Fill in the required information and submit.

    When you complete the first step, your workflow is created and you can continue to subsequent steps.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Check>
  **Success!** Your workflow is now active. You can find it in your workflow list and continue working through the remaining steps.
</Check>

## What happens when you start

When you start a workflow:

1. **Workflow instance created** - A new workflow is created specifically for your property
2. **Steps initialized** - All required steps are set up and ready for completion
3. **First step submitted** - Your initial submission is recorded as the first completed step
4. **Progress tracked** - The system begins tracking your overall progress

You'll see a progress indicator showing how many steps are complete out of the total.

## Starting from a property page

You can also start workflows directly from a property's info panel:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Find the property">
    Use the map or search to locate the property where you need to start a workflow.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Open the property panel">
    Click on the property to open its info panel.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Go to Workflows">
    Navigate to the **Workflows** section in the property panel. You'll see:

    * Any existing workflows for this property
    * Options to start new workflows (if available)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Start a new workflow">
    Click the option to start a new workflow. The property will be pre-selected, so you can go directly to completing the first step.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Workflow availability

Not all workflows may be available to you. Availability depends on:

**Workflow status** - Workflows can be open (accepting new applications), closed (not accepting applications), or in draft (still being configured).

**User groups** - Some workflows may only be available to certain user groups. Your community configures these permissions.

**Property eligibility** - Certain workflows may only apply to specific property types or locations.

If you don't see a workflow you expect, contact your community to confirm availability and eligibility.

## Before you start

Before beginning a workflow, consider:

**Do you have the necessary information?** - Review the workflow description to understand what information and documents you'll need.

**Is this the right property?** - Confirm you're starting the workflow for the correct address or location.

**Are there prerequisites?** - Some workflows may require prior approvals or completed applications before you can begin.

**What's the timeline?** - Understand any deadlines or expected processing times mentioned in the workflow description.

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="I can't find the workflow I need">
    **Solution**: Not all workflows may be visible to all users. Check that you're signed in to your account and that you have the appropriate permissions. If you still don't see the workflow, contact your community—it may not be available yet, may be closed, or may require specific permissions.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="I selected the wrong property">
    **Solution**: You cannot change the property after starting a workflow. If you need to associate your application with a different property, you'll need to start a new workflow with the correct property. Your community may be able to help if you need to transfer information between workflows.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="The workflow shows no available steps">
    **Solution**: This can happen if the workflow configuration has changed or if you don't have permission to view certain steps. Contact your community to verify the workflow is properly configured and that you have the appropriate access.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="I don't have an account">
    **Solution**: Some workflows require you to create an account before starting. Look for a sign-up or registration option. If you're unsure whether you need an account, contact your community for guidance.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="The first step won't submit">
    **Solution**: Check that all required fields are completed. Required fields are marked and must be filled in before submission. If you're still having trouble, try refreshing the page or clearing your browser cache. Contact support if the issue persists.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>
