Create a workflow

Build a new automated process from a blank canvas.

Updated 2026-07-23

A workflow is a process shown as connected steps on a canvas. You can start one from Home or from the Workflows list.

Screenshot coming soon

A new, empty workflow canvas ready for its first trigger

Start a new workflow

Select Create workflow from Home, or go to Workflows and select Create New Workflow.
Contrata opens a new workflow and takes you straight to its canvas.
Select Edit to start building, then Add Node to open the node selector.
Choose a Trigger first — every workflow needs one to decide when it starts. See Triggers for the options.
Add Agent and Human review steps after the trigger, connecting them in the order you want work to happen.
Select Validate to check the workflow, then use the Active toggle to switch it on. See Fix a blocked workflow if validation finds a problem.

NoteA new workflow starts as a Draft and isn't running until you activate it, so it's safe to experiment.

Name and describe it

Open the Details panel on the left to give your workflow a clear Workflow Name and Description, and to set its Workflow Owner — the person responsible for keeping it running. See The canvas for a full tour of this panel.

TipGive your workflow a name that describes the outcome, such as "Weekly invoice chase", so colleagues can find it in the Workflows list at a glance.

Common questions

Can I start from a template instead?

Yes. Templates give you a ready-built workflow you can adapt rather than starting from a blank canvas.

What happens if I close the canvas without saving?

Contrata warns you before discarding unsaved changes, listing exactly what will be lost.

Up next

The canvas

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