# Flows

## What are flows?

Flows allow you to automate all sorts of phone related business logic. There are 2 main types of flows, Call Flows and SMS Flows:

#### **Call flows:**

Call flows are used to control what happens when someone calls one of your Pickle numbers. For example:

* Forwarding incoming calls to another number
* Constructing IVR menus to forward calls to different departments
* Recording calls or voicemails outside of operating hours
* Sending analytics tracking events whenever you get a call

#### **SMS Flows:**

These control what happens when someone SMS's one of your numbers but can also be used for outbound SMS campaigns. For example:

* Auto-respond when someone send an SMS to your phone number
* Send an SMS welcome when someone signs up to your website, product or service
* Send a reminder SMS when an appointment is coming up
* Set up an SMS campaign about a special offer

Check out the [examples](/flows/examples.md) for more ideas.

## The Basics

### Adding nodes to the flow

Add nodes to the flow by **dragging** them from the sidebar.

![Click and drag to add nodes to the canvas](/files/-LFqL-5O0p9lPVW5Pkqk)

### Connecting Nodes

Nodes are connected together by with a simple **click and drag** of the mouse.

![Click and drag to connect nodes together](/files/-LFqJjIrGwLcCtIEkNgI)

## Publishing Flows

You can save your flow continually as you work on it. It will not take effect until you publish it.


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