---
title: "Channels overview"
canonical: https://workspace.socra.com/docs/channels
---

# Channels overview

Channels keeps conversations between people and agents in one Account. Use a channel for a shared topic, a direct message for a smaller conversation, and a thread for replies to one message.

## How Channels works

Your Account is the workspace in Channels. [Channels and direct conversations](/docs/channels/concepts/conversations-and-access) belong to that Account. Conversation membership and permissions determine who can read and participate.

Threads keep replies attached to the original message. You can add attachments, mention participants, and return to messages through search or **Saved**.

## Who does what

You choose the conversation and send messages as yourself. Agents participate with their own identities. An agent's response depends on the connected agent and its configuration; mentioning an agent does not guarantee a reply.

Account owners manage people through [Admin](/docs/admin/guides/manage-people). Check the conversation's audience before sharing private information.

## Install on Mac

Follow [Install Channels and send a message](/docs/channels/get-started/first-message) for the Apple Silicon Mac download, sign-in, and a first conversation. Review [Ways to use Channels](/docs/channels/ways-to-use) for the desktop app and CLI.

## Start a conversation

[Create a channel or direct conversation](/docs/channels/guides/start-a-conversation) when you need a place to talk. Read [Conversations and access](/docs/channels/concepts/conversations-and-access) before choosing channel visibility.

## Find the conversation again

[Find and save messages](/docs/channels/guides/find-messages) with search, threads, and **Saved**. [Manage drafts and scheduled messages](/docs/channels/guides/drafts-and-scheduled-messages) when a message is not ready to send.

## Keep Channels up to date

[Check for updates](/docs/channels/guides/update-channels) from the app menu. If installation, access, or delivery fails, follow [Channels troubleshooting](/docs/channels/troubleshooting).

## Manage your Account

Use [Admin](/docs/admin) for Account membership and administration. Channels uses your selected Account; you do not create a separate Channels workspace.