> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.orbid.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How the agent works

> Sessions, tool loops, phases, and when Orbid AI waits for human input in medical-device bid work.

# How the agent works

Orbid is a **session-based agent**. You provide files and instructions; Orbid chooses tools (scan, match, fill, generate, research, …), returns intermediate results, and often **stops for your judgment** before high-stakes steps.

## The loop (user view)

```text theme={null}
You  →  message / upload / pick product
        ↓
Orbid → tool calls (scan, match, fill, draft, …)
        ↓
You  ←  summaries, matrices, downloads, questions
        ↓
You  →  correct, lock product, approve, ask next outcome
```

This is the same pattern as other native agents: **delegate → tools → review → continue**.

## Sessions

* One **session** ≈ one bid effort
* Holds conversation, attached files, match state, and drafts
* Switching product models may use branches / re-match—do not blend two models’ evidence silently

See [Agents and sessions](/guides/workspace/agents-sessions).

## Context the agent can use

* **Session uploads** — Primary tender truth
* **[Library](/guides/workspace/library)** — Product and supporting files
* **[Knowledge](/guides/workspace/knowledge)** — Org lessons (never overrides tender hard limits)
* **[Memory](/guides/workspace/memory)** — Cross-work hints—always re-verify critical constraints

## Phases (what “ready” feels like)

* **Empty** — Search opportunities, browse catalog, research—**matching still needs a file**
* **Has file** — Ask Orbid to analyze / scan the package
* **Scanned** — Match a product, eligibility pre-check, risk flags
* **Matched** — Deviations, go/no-go, fill Excel, generate packs
* **Exported** — Review bid, record outcome

These map to product phase guidance (pills), not a rigid wizard you must click through.

## Tools (optional detail)

Under the hood, outcomes map to tools such as tender scan, product match, Excel fill, go/no-go, and deliverable generation. Daily use: speak in **outcomes**. Specialists: [Tools reference](/guides/skills).

## When Orbid should wait on you

* Product selection / lock
* Hard-limit failures and no-bid decisions
* Weak evidence / residuals
* Commercial pricing
* Final package approval and submission

See [Trust and judgment](/guides/trust-and-judgment).

## Related

* [Quickstart](/quickstart) · [Workflows](/guides/workflows) · [What to say](/guides/what-to-say)