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

# Core Concepts

> The building blocks of the Seminode platform — nodes, networks, listings, quotes, and orders.

## Overview

Seminode is a private supply chain network where companies share material availability, request and send quotes, and place orders with their partners. A handful of concepts underpin everything you do on the platform — understanding them makes the rest of the docs click into place.

***

## Nodes

A **node** is a permissioned database that holds your supply or demand data. You decide which partners can see each node, so the same platform can serve public catalogs and tightly restricted, partner-specific data. Nodes are the foundation you publish listings to.

Learn more in **[Nodes](/tools/nodes)**.

## Networks

A **network** is the set of connections between your company's nodes and your partners' nodes. Building your network — adding partners and granting node permissions — is what turns Seminode from a private database into a live trading channel.

Learn more in **[Partners](/tools/partners)** and **[Network](/tools/network)**.

## Listings

A **listing** is a single, standardized item of supply or demand data — a part with its quantity, price, lead time, and attributes. Listings are organized into **batches** when you post them, and they're what your partners quote against.

Learn more in **[Listings](/tools/listings)**.

## Quotes

A **quote** is an offer or counter-offer on a listing. Quotes flow between partners in a thread — request, respond, counter, accept, or reject — and all of that activity lives in your **[Inbox](/tools/inbox)**. Quotes can be routed through **[approval workflows](/tools/approvals)** before they're sent.

## Orders

When both parties accept a quote, it becomes an **order**. Orders track fulfillment from confirmation through completion.

Learn more in **[Orders](/tools/orders)**.

***

<Note>
  New to Seminode? Start with the **[Quickstart](/quickstart)**, then follow the guide for your role under **Guides by Role** — [OEM](/workflows/oem), [CM & EMS](/workflows/cm-ems), or [Distributor](/workflows/distributor).
</Note>