1 Understand the nine workflow stages

Every tool is mapped to one of nine transmedia production stages. When starting a project, think stage by stage — what do you need for research? For visuals? For distribution? Working through stages in order helps you avoid reaching for a complex tool when a simpler one in an earlier stage would do the job.

2 Selecting the right tool

Use these questions before committing to any tool:

• What stage am I in? Filter the Tool Map by stage to see only relevant options.
• Does it connect? Check "Works With" — tools that link to n8n, Zapier, or your VPS can be automated.
• What's the difficulty? Match the tool to your available time and skill level that day.
• What's the swap? If a tool goes down or changes pricing, each card shows a backup option — know your swap before you need it.
• Mark what you're using: Click the ✓ Selected toggle on any card to track your active tools. Use "Selected only" to see just your stack.

3 Build a stable core stack

For transmedia production, a stable stack means one reliable tool per stage — not necessarily the most powerful tool, but the most dependable one you can consistently use. The "Swap" field on each card is your insurance policy.

4 Planning a workflow collaboratively

The Workflows tab is designed for use alone or with a team. Here's how to use it together:

• Start blank: Create a new workflow with a project name and share the link before a meeting. Everyone opens the same URL.
• Fill it out together: In a video call, one person drives — adding tools to each stage as the team agrees on them in real time.
• Save per project: Each workflow is saved by name. You can keep one per project, sprint, or content series.
• Print to PDF: Use the Print button inside any workflow to generate a clean, shareable PDF — no clutter, controls removed.
• Nothing is permanent: Tools can be added or removed from a workflow at any time. The Tool Map underneath never changes.

The "Selected" checkmark on Tool Map cards is personal — it's for your own reference and doesn't affect what others see when they open the link.

5 Working with collaborators

• Use Share (top right) to copy the URL and send it — anyone who opens it gets the same blank starting state.
• When a collaborator mentions a tool you don't recognize, click + Add Tool and fill in what you know. Leave fields blank and return later.
• If a tool stops working or goes paid, hit Deactivate — it grays out without disappearing, so collaborators can still see it and understand your decision.
• Use the Notes field on any card to leave context, pricing notes, or access instructions for your team.

6 Share your workflow with TechCreate

Found a tool combination that works brilliantly? We're building a community gallery of real transmedia workflows. Click Share My Flow ↗ (top right) to submit your workflow to the TechCreate gallery. Submissions may be featured on TechCreate.org as case studies and inspiration for other creators.

You can submit anonymously or with your name — your choice.

7 Keeping your guide current

• Add tools via + Add Tool. Deactivate ones that stop working.
• All data saves automatically in your browser's local storage on this device.
• To back up or move to another device: export below, save the file, and import on any device.
• The base guide on the server never changes unless TechCreate updates it — your personal selections and workflows are always yours alone.