Quick start

This is the fastest safe way to get value from OtterDesk: set up the local runtime, hire one co-worker, configure it, and run a test you can review.

1. Open OtterDesk

On its first launch, OtterDesk checks whether the local runtime is ready. Keep the app open while first-time setup finishes. If OtterDesk asks for Docker Desktop, install and start Docker Desktop, then choose Try again.

See Set up your local runtime for more detail.

2. Hire a co-worker

1. Select Hire a co-worker in the sidebar.
2. Search or filter the catalog.
3. Open a co-worker to review its mission, what you provide, what you receive, and any hardware requirements.
4. Select Hire Co-worker.

OtterDesk checks the local runtime before it adds a co-worker. A co-worker with GPU requirements cannot be hired until a suitable computer is available.

3. Configure it

Open My Team, select your new co-worker, then choose Configure. Give it a recognizable name and complete any required non-secret settings. Save changes before you test.

4. Run a test

Choose Test now. Follow progress in the co-worker's status view, then review the activity, inputs and outputs, and any evidence it produced.

5. Choose the next step

• If the result looks right, choose Set schedule to create regular shifts.
• If the co-worker needs a different instruction or connection, choose Configure and test again.
• If it asks for a decision, answer from the decision card before it continues.

For a fuller walkthrough, see Browse and hire co-workers, Configure a co-worker, and Review work.