> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.apono.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.apono.io/docs/access-flows/access-flows.md).

# Access Flows

An [access flow](/docs/access-flows/access-flows/what-are-access-flows.md) is an automated, dynamic permissions workflow that allows admins to define access to a set of resources.

<figure><img src="/files/kbq1Wq0BzUtDSXDtLtq2" alt=""><figcaption><p>Create Access Flow page</p></figcaption></figure>

The Apono UI allows you to create customized access flows to fit your access management needs. Users can request a range of predefined permissions through various channels to ensure that access to your resources is granted securely for an appropriate length of time.

Creating an access flow offers you the following benefits:

* Adapt permissions dynamically based on context
* Enhance security and compliance by structuring approval policies
* Allow users to request access through convenient channels such as Slack, Teams, command-line interface (CLI) or magic links
* Reduce administrative overhead with a rapid and safe automated process

Apono allows you to create one of the following access flows.

<table><thead><tr><th width="197">Access Flow Type</th><th>Description</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><a href="/pages/sVn2oYvXxhOI9ZIEDDvo"><strong>Self Serve</strong></a></td><td><p>Grants access to a resource based on a user request for a defined time period</p><p>This access flow type is best used for sensitive or highly regulated resources, such as access to production. It also suits just-in-time (JIT) or break-glass access cases.</p></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/pages/6AmJIkxmv8PL0PY3GqOK"><strong>Automatic</strong></a></td><td><p>Automatically grants and revokes access to a resource based on user context</p><p>This access flow type is best used for role-based access control (RBAC) and on-call shift baselines.</p></td></tr></tbody></table>


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