> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.pristo.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.pristo.io/distributions/creating-a-distribution.md).

# Creating a distribution

To start sending your survey via SMS or email, you must first create a distribution. This process allows you to define your audience, choose your delivery method, and set your preferred privacy levels.

{% hint style="info" %}
Before creating a distribution, ensure that a Population (contact list) is linked to your project. You cannot distribute a survey without a source of contacts.
{% endhint %}

To begin setting up a new distribution, follow these steps:

1. Click on **Distributions** in the left-hand menu, which is accessible from any page in the platform.
2. Click on the **+ New distribution** button.
3. In the Description field, provide a short description or name for the distribution. This name will help you identify the data source later when exporting your results.

<figure><img src="/files/GnmhPjOme7v1rkUSb8Ic" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
Use descriptive names like "Customer satisfaction May 2025" to make your data analysis more efficient later on.
{% endhint %}

4. Under Distribution Type, select the option that matches your goal:

* **One-time Delivery:** For sending a single batch to a specific list.
* **Ongoing/Periodic Survey:** For recurring surveys sent to a percentage of your audience.
* **Event-Based Survey:** For surveys triggered by a specific customer action.

5. Choose your Anonymity Level to determine how much respondent data you wish to track.
6. Click **Next** to save these settings and move to the specific configuration for your chosen type.