To open the Message Center, click the side tab on the right side of the Factor interface. This opens the Message Center panel, which you can keep open while navigating to other parts of Factor.

1. Look for the Message Center icon or tab on the right side of the Factor interface (usually represented by a speech bubble or message icon).

2. Click it to open the Message Center panel.

3. The panel stays open as you navigate Factor, so you can message while working in other areas.

Project Messages (Topic Channels)

Each project can have a dedicated messaging channel. These messages are project-related and visible to all team members assigned to that project.

- When you're assigned to a project, you're automatically subscribed to the project's message channel.

- You can message about project-related topics without sending individual emails.

1. In the Message Center, select the project or channel you want to message.

2. Type your message in the compose box at the bottom of the panel.

3. You can format your message with bold, italics, links, etc. (if formatting options are available).

4. Click Send or press Enter to post your message.

Messages are organized by project/channel:

- Unread messages: Unread messages are typically highlighted or shown with a badge.

- Message history: Scroll up to see previous messages in the channel.

- Sorting: Messages are usually displayed in chronological order (oldest to newest).

Notifications appear in app only:

To get someone's attention in a message:

1. Type @ in your message and start typing their name.

2. A dropdown list of users will appear.

3. Click their name to mention them.

4. They'll be notified that they were mentioned.

If a message contains important information:

1. Hover over the message.

2. Look for a pin icon or options menu.

3. Click to pin the message.

4. Pinned messages appear at the top of the channel for easy reference.

Use the search box in the Message Center to find a specific project or channel by name or number. This searches for the channel itself, not the text of past messages.

If you no longer want to be part of a project's messaging channel:

1. Click the ellipsis (...) icon next to the channel.

2. Select Unsubscribe and confirm.

3. You'll no longer receive messages from that channel unless you're reassigned to the project.

- Use project channels for project-related discussions only — keep conversations focused.

- Keep messages concise and clear.

- Use mentions sparingly — only mention people who need to see the message.

- Don't use messaging for sensitive or confidential information.

If messaging is not working:

- Check that messaging is enabled for your firm (see "Setting Up Messaging").

- Verify you're assigned to the project.

- Try refreshing the page or reopening the Message Center.

- Contact Factor support if issues persist.