> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.ondeckapps.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Quick start: install Relay and build your first dashboard

> Open Relay, create a dashboard, add a tile and module, and enter Live Mode.

This guide walks you through Relay from first launch to running your first live dashboard.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Relay">
    Launch Relay on your Mac or iPad (Coming Soon). If the system asks for permissions, allow the prompts that match the workflows you plan to use.

    The first launch also shows an opt-in consent screen for diagnostics and crash reporting — choose whether Relay can send that data back to help improve the app.

    <Tip>
      Relay may need Local Network, Microphone, or Speech Recognition access depending on which modules or integrations you use. You can review permission status at any time under `Relay > Settings` → <Icon icon="hand" /> **Access**.
    </Tip>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Run the Setup Wizard (optional)">
    The [Setup Wizard](/relay/guides/setup-wizard) can do most of the setup for you. It walks you through connecting your services, choosing starter tiles with a live layout preview, and creating your first dashboard. Every step is optional.

    <Tip>
      You can reopen the wizard at any time with `File > Setup Wizard…`.
    </Tip>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Create a new dashboard">
    Choose `File > New Dashboard`. If prompted, choose a canvas size that fits your display or planned operating view.

    Save the dashboard early with `File > Save Dashboard` or `Command-S` so you have a real `.relay` file before you build further.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add a tile">
    In Canvas View, use the toolbar to add a tile. Drag it into position and resize it until it feels readable for the actual distance where it will be used.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add a module">
    Select the tile, open the add-module control, and choose a module such as Time, Text, Document, Webpage, Planning Center, or ProPresenter.

    <Note>
      Some advanced modules and workflows require Relay Pro. If something appears locked, review your status under `Relay > Settings` → <Icon icon="credit-card" /> **Subscription**.
    </Note>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure the connections you need">
    Open `Relay > Settings` and connect only the systems you actually plan to use first, such as Planning Center, ProPresenter, devices, OSC, MIDI, or LAN sharing.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter Live Mode">
    Choose `View > Live Mode` or use `Command-L` when the dashboard is ready for production use.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Design a good first layout

For most teams, a helpful first dashboard includes:

* One large tile for the most important live information
* One or two supporting tiles for timers, notes, or status
* A simple visual hierarchy that can be understood at a glance

Good starter modules are Text, Time, Webpage, Document, Planning Center, and ProPresenter.

Useful habits:

* Keep the most important information in the largest tiles.
* Group related information together.
* Leave enough spacing so the screen is readable from a distance.
* Use separate tabs for different moments in your workflow.

<Tip>If a dashboard feels crowded, split it into multiple tabs instead of trying to fit everything onto one screen.</Tip>

## Next steps

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Core concepts" icon="book-open" href="/relay/core-concepts">Learn the terms used throughout the docs.</Card>
  <Card title="Tiles" icon="square-dashed" href="/relay/dashboards/tiles">Arrange, resize, and align tiles.</Card>
  <Card title="Automation" icon="workflow" href="/relay/dashboards/automation">Make Relay respond to events.</Card>
  <Card title="Troubleshooting" icon="life-buoy" href="/relay/troubleshooting">Fix common problems.</Card>
</CardGroup>

## Troubleshooting

If a feature does not work after granting a permission, quit and reopen Relay. If live data still does not appear, confirm the integration is configured in settings and that the target system is reachable on the network.