Understanding file processing and status

When you upload a file to Storytell, it goes through a processing step to make it searchable and ready to chat with. This processing allows Storytell to break down the content into usable pieces, like sections, tables, or slides, so it can respond accurately to your prompts.

Written By Patrick Intervalo

Last updated 4 months ago

What happens when you upload a file

As soon as you upload a file, Storytell automatically begins processing it. During this process:

  • The file is scanned and parsed into structured text.

  • Headings, bullet points, tables, timestamps, and other key elements are preserved.

  • The content is indexed so you can search it, @mention it in prompts, and get context-aware responses.

File status indicators

After you upload a file, Storytell will show different visual indicators to reflect its current status:

  • Uploading

    • Icon: Loading spinner.

    • Meaning: The file is still transferring from your device to Storytell.

    • What to do: Wait until this finishes before taking any action.

  • Processing

    • Icon: Loading spinner.

    • Meaning: Storytell has received the file and is now analyzing and preparing it. The file is not yet ready for chatting.

    • During this step, Storytell is:

      • Making the file available for @mentions in your prompts.

      • Extracting and creating Concepts from the content for structured, reusable insights.

    • What to do: Do not start chatting with the file yet. Wait until the icon changes to a check mark.

  • Ready

    • Icon: Check mark.

    • Meaning: The file is fully processed and ready to use in chats and Concept-based workflows.

  • Error

    • Icon: Error symbol.

    • Meaning: The file could not be processed successfully.

    • What to do:

      • Delete the file and re-upload it.

      • Check if your file format is supported before trying again.

Upload Notifications

To reduce confusion, Storytell alerts you when you try to chat with a file that is still uploading or processing:

  • If you attempt to chat with a file before it’s ready, a pop-up message appears letting you know the asset is still uploading or processing and not yet ready for chatting.

  • The message prompts you to wait and offers the option to be notified when the upload finishes.

  • Click “Yes, notify me” to receive a browser notification when your file is ready. You will need to allow browser notifications for Storytell.

  • If you ignore the notification and continue chatting, answers may be incomplete or irrelevant because the file content is not yet available.

Tip: If you don’t receive notifications, check your computer’s system settings to make sure notifications are enabled for your browser, and confirm that Storytell is allowed to send notifications.

Tips and best practices

  • Always wait for the check mark before chatting with your file.

  • Use upload notifications for a smoother workflow and timely alerts.

  • Check supported formats if your file won’t process properly: Supported file types and formats

  • If you delete and re-upload the same file, it will be processed again from scratch.