Getting Started

This section is intended to provide users with an introduction to the STEP system and concepts. Additionally, it provides detailed information needed to perform basic data maintenance tasks in STEP, including detailed descriptions of the workbench interface and search functionality. While geared towards end users, the guide provides information that is necessary for all users to understand as a foundation for more advanced topics.

This guide is centered around STEP Workbench, but the concepts and functionality presented are often applicable to both the workbench and Web UI interfaces. Because of this, it is helpful for users of either interface to be familiar with the material in this guide. For documentation specific to the Web UI, refer to the Web User Interfaces guide.

The Getting Started guide contains the following sections.

  • Introduction: This section includes a terminology table and an overview of some basic STEP concepts. This material should be understood prior to proceeding through the guide as it lays the foundation for the subsequent topics.
  • STEP Workbench UI: This section introduces the user to the workbench interface, as well as providing detailed reference information for the various functions, including toolbar actions and menu options.
  • Object Maintenance in the Tree Tab: This section provides an overview of creating, editing, and deleting objects in the workbench, as well as providing detailed information for working with particular types of objects.
  • Navigating and Searching: This section introduces the user to basic search and navigation functionality in STEP Workbench, as well as providing detailed descriptions of the search criteria available on the Advanced Search tab.
  • STEP Workbench Keyboard Shortcuts: This topic provides a list of keyboard shortcuts that can be used in the workbench.