# Getting started with ArkitektHQ

## Try the demo first

You do not need to sign up to look around. The home page links into a demo workspace pre-loaded with a sample inventory, fleet, and certification roster. Use it to confirm the system fits how your shop already works.

## 1. Create an account

From any page, click **Sign in**, then **Create account**. You will need a working email address and a password. Email verification is required before you can invite team members. There is no credit card requirement on the Free plan.

## 2. Add your first chemical

From the dashboard, go to **Inventory > Chemicals > Add chemical**. Enter the product name and manufacturer at minimum.

- If you have the SDS PDF, drag it into the upload area and the system will extract hazard data automatically.
- If you do not have the PDF, paste the vendor's SDS URL. The seamless refresh flow will watch that URL for revisions and tell you when the content changes.
- CAS numbers and UPCs are optional but help if you ever export the inventory.

## 3. Enable SDS auto-update

On any chemical record, toggle **Auto-update**. ArkitektHQ will then monitor the upstream vendor for revisions and notify you when something material changes.

- Auto-update is included on the Pro + SDS plan.
- The Free plan supports manual upload and link-only inventory.
- See `/site/features/sds-auto-update.html` for the pipeline detail.

## 4. Invite your team

Go to **Settings > Team > Invite**. Enter the email addresses of your safety coordinator, shop foreman, and anyone else who needs access.

Roles:

- **Owner** — full control, billing.
- **Admin** — full control, no billing.
- **Member** — can edit inventory, equipment, and certifications.
- **View-only** — read access for auditors and outside consultants.

## 5. Set up identifier schemes

Under **Settings > Identifiers** you can define how your shop labels equipment, vehicles, and tools. Most shops use a prefix-plus-sequence pattern, for example:

- `WLD-0001` for welders
- `TRK-0001` for trucks
- `TRL-0001` for trailers

The system will auto-generate the next ID in the sequence whenever you add a new asset, and you can change schemes later without renumbering existing records.

## Next steps

Once your inventory and team are in place, the most common follow-up tasks are:

1. Uploading your existing certification roster.
2. Importing fleet units with their last CVIP date.
3. Configuring email reminder windows for expiring certifications and inspections.

Each has its own setting screen and requires no technical knowledge to operate.