# Create alternate approaches

In research, you often need to explore different methods, parameters, or data transformations side by side. On Nuvolos, each alternative lives in its own [instance](/features/nuvolos-basic-concepts/organisational-hierarchy.md#instances) within the same space. Because every instance shares the same file system namespace and can receive content via [distribution](/features/nuvolos-basic-concepts/distribution.md), you can branch off from your main work, experiment freely, and compare results — without risking your original material.

{% hint style="info" %}
Think of instances as lightweight branches: each one has its own current state, its own [snapshots](/features/nuvolos-basic-concepts/snapshots.md), and its own running [applications](/features/nuvolos-basic-concepts/applications.md), but they all live under one project space.
{% endhint %}

## 1. Create a new instance

You need the [Space Administrator](/administration/roles.md) role to create instances.

1. Navigate to the space where you want to create the alternate approach.
2. Click the **Cogwheel** icon and select **Project Users / Instances**.
3. Click **+ ADD NEW INSTANCE**.
4. Choose whether to start from a snapshot of an existing instance or create an empty instance.
5. Give the instance a descriptive name (e.g. `Model B — ridge regression`).

For the full guide, see [Create a new instance](/administration/instance-management.md#create-a-new-instance).

## 2. Distribute material to the new instance

Copy the files, tables, or applications you want to modify from your main instance:

1. Navigate to the source instance (typically the Master instance).
2. Select the objects you want to distribute by clicking the **stage** button on each.
3. Open the **distribute** menu on the sidebar.
4. Follow the distribution steps and select the new instance as the target.

For the full guide, see [Distribution](/features/nuvolos-basic-concepts/distribution.md) and the [step-by-step distribution walkthrough](/features/object-distribution.md).

{% hint style="info" %}
Distribution runs in the background. You will receive an email when it completes. If it fails, contact <support@nuvolos.cloud>.
{% endhint %}

## 3. Switch between approaches

Once you have multiple instances, use the instance selector in the sidebar to switch context. For tips on navigating between instances, see [Navigate in Nuvolos](/features/navigate-in-nuvolos.md).

## 4. Compare and consolidate

You can also distribute results back from the alternate instance to the Master instance, or use [snapshots](/features/snapshots.md) to preserve the state of each approach for later comparison.


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