# Getting Started

## Prerequisites

Before running workflows in Workbench, ensure your environment is properly configured. The initial setup is typically handled by IT administrators who manage computational resources and workflow execution engines in your environment.

Two key requirements must be in place before using Workbench:

* Provisioned computational resources in your chosen environment
* A configured [workflow execution engine](/products/workbench/engines.md) running in a supported compute environment

For detailed information about engines and cloud backends, refer to the [engine deployment documentation.](/products/workbench/engines.md)

## Supported Cloud Platforms

Workbench supports multiple cloud platforms and execution services. You can run workflows through native cloud services or DNAstack WES, our GA4GH-compliant workflow execution service that works across all supported platforms.

Supported platforms and their execution services include:

* **Google Cloud Platform:** Google [Life Sciences API](https://cloud.google.com/life-sciences/docs/reference/rest) or [DNAstack WES](https://github.com/DNAstack/cromwell-wes-service)
* **Amazon Web Services:** [AWS HealthOmics](https://aws.amazon.com/healthomics/resources/)
* **Microsoft Azure:** [Cromwell on Azure](https://github.com/microsoft/CromwellOnAzure) or [DNAstack WES](https://github.com/DNAstack/cromwell-wes-service)
* **On-Premises:** [DNAstack WES](https://github.com/DNAstack/cromwell-wes-service)

[DNAstack WES](https://github.com/DNAstack/cromwell-wes-service) is a workflow execution service developed by DNAstack as an alternative to the backend services provided natively by cloud providers. It implements the [Workflow Execution Service](https://ga4gh.github.io/workflow-execution-service-schemas/docs/) (WES) standard developed by the [Global Alliance for Genomics and Health (GA4GH)](https://www.ga4gh.org/). DNAstack WES can also be used for on-premises workflow execution.

## Getting Started

Using Workbench involves a straightforward process. Begin by accessing the platform at <https://workbench.omics.ai>. From there, you'll need to connect Workbench to your workflow execution engines - this is a one-time configuration step for each engine you plan to use.

Once connected, you can:

1. Find or import a WDL workflow
2. Configure workflow inputs
3. Submit and monitor the workflow
4. Locate workflow outputs


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