# Overview





Silkline has a flexible workflow that allows multiple points of entry. For example, a buyer can facilitate an order without a requisite request or quote.

## Workflow overview

Silkline's end-to-end purchasing workflow includes:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
### [Requests](requests)

A stakeholder, such as an engineer, submits a request in Silkline. A buyer is assigned to the request and begins working it.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
### [RFQs](requests/rfqs)

For requests that requiring sourcing, the assigned buyer sends an RFQ to suppliers with part files securely attached.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
### [Quotes](quotes)

A supplier submits a quote or a buyer uploads a quote. Quotes are analyzed and structured data is extracted from the quote using AI.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
### [Orders](orders)

A Purchase Order is created or imported. Open orders are sent to the supplier and tracked through receipt.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
### [Check-ins](check-ins)

A buyer send a check-in to supplier to request updates to ETAs and status.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}



