⚡⚡ Quick Start
Quick Start Guide (15 Minutes)
Get Your First Show Live in 15 Minutes
This guide walks you through the complete workflow from account creation to live deployment.
Total Time: ~15 minutes | Difficulty: Beginner
Phase 1: Setup (5 minutes)
Step 1 – Create Account
- Go to surtitlelive.com and click "Sign Up"
- Fill in your email, password, and profile details
- Verify your email address
Step 2 – Create Project
- From the Dashboard, click "New Project"
- Enter project name and details
- Click "Create"
Step 3 – Upload Script
- Open your project and click "Upload Script"
- Select your file (.docx, .doc, .odt, .txt, or .rtf)
- Confirm the original language
- Click "Upload"
Phase 2: Editor & Languages (5 minutes)

Step 4 – Open the Editor
- Click "Analyze Script" to process your file (AI identifies characters and dialogue)
- Once complete, click "Open Editor"
Step 5 – Add Languages
- Click the "Manage Languages" button (top toolbar, center area)
- From the dropdown, select a language from the "Add a language" list
- Or click "Other..." to search for additional languages
- Click "Add" to confirm
Step 6 – Select Working Language
- Use the "Language" dropdown (left side of toolbar) to choose which column to edit
- This sets your active translation column
Step 7 – AI Translation (Optional)
- Click the purple "AI Translate" button (toolbar, next to Manage Languages)
- Select source and target languages
- Choose translation mode (fill empty only or force overwrite)
- Click "Translate" and wait 3-5 minutes
Phase 3: Deploy Your Show (5 minutes)

Step 8 – Simulation Mode
- From the project page, click "Editor & Simulation"
- Preview how subtitles display on different screens
- Test cue navigation using Previous/Next buttons
- Verify timing and text appearance
Step 9 – Finalize & Deploy
- In Simulation, click "Looks Good! Finalize and Push" (bottom-right)
- Configure deployment settings:
- Region – Choose closest to your venue
- Duration (Visible Window) – Lite defaults to 7 visible days; Pro can set up to 30 visible days. Runtime cleanup applies an additional 1-day backend buffer.
- ASM Credentials – Create operator login
- Click "Deploy Show"
- Wait for deployment to complete (usually 1-2 minutes)
Step 10 – Go Live
- Copy the Viewer Link or download the QR Code
- Share with your audience (print on posters, programs, or display at venue)
- Open the ASM Cockpit link to control cues during the show
- Click "Go Live" when ready to start
Quick Reference: Editor Toolbar
| Button/Control | Location | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Language dropdown | Left side | Select which language column to edit |
| Manage Languages | Center-right | Add or remove translation languages |
| AI Translate (purple) | Next to Manage Languages | Auto-translate using AI |
| Download | Right side | Export to Excel or PowerPoint |
| Save | Far right | Save all changes |
What's Next?
- During Show: Use the ASM Cockpit to control cues – see ASM Quick Reference
- Edit Anytime: Return to the Editor to make changes. To apply them, open your Project options, select "Surtitle deployment settings", and click "Update Live Subtitles".
- Team: Invite members to collaborate on scripts
- Backup: Export your script before major changes
Need Help?
- Browse detailed guides in each section below
- Contact support: [email protected]
