> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://code-for-philly.gitbook.io/chime/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://code-for-philly.gitbook.io/chime/purpose/basic-tutorial.md).

# Basic Tutorial

Although CHIME was initially created for Penn Medicine, the application can be used by anyone in the world. Here is a basic walkthrough of how to start using CHIME for your region.

For a walkthrough of the dash, please watch our [video tutorial](https://youtu.be/A2xI_MVzQaI). 

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2xI_MVzQaI>" %}
How To Get Started Using Penn-CHIME, the COVID-19 Hospital Capacity Planning Tool
{% endembed %}

### Selecting Data Inputs

First, there are several inputs you **must** modify to customize CHIME for your region:

* Regional Population
* Currently Known Regional Infections
* Currently Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients

You'll find these options by scrolling through the left pane:

![Use the left pane to modify inputs for your region and scenario(s).](/files/-M3DN_7yELx0i4ItZ5X0)

Then, modify all other inputs depending on which scenarios you would like to model. See [Data Inputs](/chime/what-is-chime/parameters.md) for detailed definitions of each input.

### Viewing Results

The resulting projections are displayed in the main body. They are automatically refreshed when you hit "Enter" or click the "+" or "-" buttons for each data input.

You can customize the displays to show results as tables, show additional details, and more.

![](/files/-M3DOl1pKqVJ_4cf4aeh)

For complete descriptions of how to read and interpret the figures, see [Interpreting the Results](https://code-for-philly.gitbook.io/chime/what-is-chime/dashboard-outputs-descriptions).

### Advanced Customization

For advanced customization, including changes to the underlying model, you will need to fork the Github repository and host your own version. [See Making your own CHIME app](/chime/open-source/making-your-own-chime-app.md) for instructions.