Getting Started with On Book Pro
Your first project in 5 minutes.
Welcome!
On Book Pro helps you manage theatrical productions with:
- ✅ Real-time collaboration
- ✅ Offline support
- ✅ Professional print outputs
- ✅ AI-powered script analysis
- ✅ Role-based workspaces for every team member
Step 1: Create Your Project
Option A: Start Fresh
- Open On Book Pro
- Click "+ New Project"
- Name your production
- Click "Create"
Option B: Import a Script
Skip manual setup—let AI build your structure:
- Click "+ New Project"
- Name your production
- Click "File Management" → "Import Script (PDF)"
- Upload your script
- Wait for AI analysis to complete
See the full Script Import Guide for details.
Step 2: Navigate Your Workspace
On Book Pro uses a workspace-based navigation system that shows you the tools most relevant to your role.
Understanding the Sidebar
When you enter your project, you'll see the Workspace Sidebar on the left:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Workspace Selector | Click to switch between role-focused views |
| Primary Tools | Tools prioritized for your current workspace |
| Collapse Button | Shrink sidebar to icon-only mode |
Available Workspaces
| Workspace | Primary Tools | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Stage Management | Run Sheet, Blocking, Notes, Scheduler, Personnel | Stage Managers |
| Director | Show Structure, Blocking, Scheduler, Notes | Directors |
| Costumes | Costumes, Personnel, Budget, Files | Costume Designers |
| Props | Props, Budget, Files, Run Sheet | Props Masters |
| Sound | Sound, Run Sheet, Files, Scheduler | Sound Designers |
| Production Manager | Production, Budget, Personnel, Scheduler | PMs and Producers |
| Cast Member | Calendar, Blocking View, Show Structure | Actors and Performers |
| All Tools | Everything you have access to | Power users |
Switching Workspaces
- Click the Workspace Selector button at the top of the sidebar (shows your current workspace icon)
- Choose a new workspace from the modal
- The sidebar updates to show tools for that workspace
emoji_objects Tip: Your workspace choice is saved automatically—it will persist across sessions and devices!
Keyboard Shortcuts
Speed up your workflow with these shortcuts:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
Ctrl + 1 | Open Feed |
Ctrl + 2-9 | Jump to tools 2-9 in sidebar |
Ctrl + Space | Open Workspace Selector |
Ctrl + B | Collapse/expand sidebar |
Ctrl + Z | Undo (in current tool) |
Ctrl + Shift + Z | Redo (in current tool) |
Step 3: Set Up Your Show
Add Acts and Scenes
If you didn't import a script:
- Go to Show Structure
- Click "+ Add Act"
- Within each act, click "+ Add Scene"
- Name each scene
Add Characters
- Go to Show Structure → Characters
- Click "+ Add Character"
- Enter the character name
- Optionally assign them to specific scenes
Step 4: Invite Your Team
Share your project with collaborators:
- Open the Admin Portal (gear icon in header, if you have permissions)
- Navigate to Members
- Click "Generate Invite Link"
- Copy the link and send it to your team
- They'll be able to view and edit in real-time
Role-Based Permissions
Each team member can be assigned a role that controls their access:
| Role | Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Owner | Full control, can delete project |
| Stage Manager | Full editing access to all tools |
| Designer | Access to specific department tools |
| Actor | View schedule, update own profile |
| Crew | View access, limited editing |
See the Admin Portal Guide for details.
Step 5: Explore Features
Essential Features to Try
Rehearsal Scheduler — Plan your calendar
Scheduler GuidePersonnel Directory — Manage cast and crew contacts
Personnel GuideSet Builder — Design your stage layouts
Features OverviewBlocking Tracker — Capture movement paths
Blocking GuideCostumes Module — Track measurements and costume pieces
Costumes Guide
Step 6: Work Offline
On Book Pro works without internet:
Install as a PWA:
- Desktop: Click the install icon in your browser's address bar
- Mobile: Tap "Add to Home Screen"
Open the app even when offline
Make changes as usual
Sync happens automatically when you reconnect
Tips for New Users
Tip: Import early — If you have a script, AI import saves hours of setup
Tip: Choose your workspace — Select a workspace that matches your role for a focused experience
Tip: Learn the shortcuts — Ctrl+1-9 lets you jump between tools instantly
Tip: Invite collaborators — Real-time sync means everyone sees updates instantly
Tip: Print often — Generate professional PDFs for your binder
Tip: Use the glossary — Unfamiliar terms? Check the Glossary
Need Help?
- Troubleshooting — Common issues
- All Features — Detailed guides
- Support — Contact us
Video Tutorial
Watch: Your First Project in 5 Minutes (Coming soon)
Ready to dive deeper? Explore the Feature Guides.