> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.docstudio.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.docstudio.com/user/envelope-processing-flow-template-configuration/envelope-processing-flow-overview.md).

# Envelope Processing Flow Overview

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* **Processing flow** — the rule set that determines recipient order and document processing behavior
* **AUTO flow** — a processing flow where the system determines recipient order from role types
* **Manual processing flow** — a flow where you set recipient order explicitly
* **Role** — a participant type in a template or envelope flow, such as sender, signer, approver, or copy

See the [Glossary](/glossary/glossary.md) for DocStudio term definitions.
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DocStudio supports three processing flow types:

1. parallel (AUTO)
2. step-by-step (manual)
3. serial-parallel (manual)

### Parallel flow (AUTO)

Parallel flow is configured automatically. Recipients receive the envelope at the same time based on their role type.

<figure><img src="/files/d6pbCXveh8pSvyoz6r4H" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Step-by-step flow (manual)

Step-by-step flow sends the envelope in the exact order you define.

1. Enable **Set processing order**.
2. Configure roles in the required sequence.

<figure><img src="/files/axtIfQoOvpruii3p6Wbp" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Serial-parallel flow (manual)

Use serial-parallel flow when multiple roles share the same step number.

In this case, all roles at the same step receive the envelope at the same time, while the overall flow still follows the step order.

To change a step number, click the **Edit** icon and update the processing step for each role.

<figure><img src="/files/hwMTE63sYPl3AP9ZTjQE" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>