# Getting Started with Jama

Welcome to **Jama** — your private, self-hosted team messaging app.

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## Navigating Jama

### Message List (Left Sidebar)
The sidebar shows all your message groups and direct conversations. Tap or click any group to open it.

- **#** prefix indicates a **Public** group — visible to all users
- **Lock** icon indicates a **Private** group — invite only
- **Bold** group names have unread messages
- The last message preview shows **You:** if you sent it

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## Sending Messages

Type your message in the input box at the bottom and press **Enter** to send.

- **Shift + Enter** adds a new line without sending
- Tap the **+** button to attach a photo or emoji
- Use the **camera** icon to take a photo directly (mobile)

### Mentioning Someone
Type **@** followed by the person's name to mention them. Select from the dropdown that appears. Mentioned users receive a notification.

Example: `@[John Smith]` will notify John.

### Replying to a Message
Hover over any message and click the **reply arrow** to quote and reply to it.

### Reacting to a Message
Hover over any message and click the **emoji** button to react with an emoji.

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## Direct Messages

To start a private conversation with one person:

1. Click the **pencil / new chat** icon in the sidebar
2. Select one user from the list
3. Click **Start Conversation**

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## Group Messages

To create a group conversation:

1. Click the **pencil / new chat** icon
2. Select two or more users
3. Enter a **Group Name**
4. Click **Create**

> If a group with the exact same members already exists, you will be redirected to it automatically.

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## Your Profile

Click your name or avatar at the bottom of the sidebar to:

- Update your **display name** (shown to others instead of your username)
- Add an **about me** note
- Upload a **profile photo**
- Change your **password**

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## Customising Group Names

You can set a personal display name for any group that only you will see:

1. Open the group
2. Click the **ⓘ info** icon in the top bar
3. Enter your custom name under **Your custom name**
4. Click **Save**

Other members still see the original group name.

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## Settings

Admins can access **Settings** from the user menu to configure:

- App name and logo
- Default user password
- Notification preferences

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## Tips

- 🌙 Toggle **dark mode** from the user menu
- 🔔 Enable **push notifications** when prompted to receive alerts when the app is closed
- 📱 Install Jama as a **PWA** on your device — tap *Add to Home Screen* in your browser menu for an app-like experience

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*This help file can be updated by your administrator at any time.*