How to Use Claude to Create and Manage a Project: Step-by-Step Guide for New Users

Getting started with Claude just became a whole lot easier. This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know to create, manage and share projects in Claude Enterprise—from signing in for the first time to building reusable workflows that simplify your daily tasks. Whether you’re a new user or looking to fine-tune your setup, this guide will help you make the most of Claude’s powerful tools and integrations at Syracuse University.

  1. Sign Up for Claude
    • Go to getclaude.syr.edu and request access to Claude using your university credentials. Accept the licensing agreement and wait for instant activation.
  2. Access Claude Enterprise
    • Log in at claude.ai. Confirm you see “Syracuse University” at the top to ensure you are in the secure enterprise environment.
  3. Check Settings
    • Click the settings icon (bottom left). Enable features like Artifacts (for reusable outputs), Code Execution, and File Creation. These allow Claude to process files and automate tasks.
  4. Set Up Connectors
    • In Settings, connect Microsoft 365 to allow Claude to access Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint data. Authenticate and configure permissions as needed.
  5. Create a New Project
    • Click “Projects” in Claude’s interface.
    • Select “Create Project.”
    • Enter a name for your project. Leave the description blank initially; you can ask Claude to generate one later.
  6. Set Project Privacy
    • Choose “Private” to keep the project visible only to you, or select “Share with Syracuse University” if you want all users to access it. You can also share with specific individuals by entering their email addresses.
  7. Add Instructions/Prompts
    • Write clear instructions describing the project’s purpose and workflow. You can use Claude or the AI Prompt Creator project to help draft advanced prompts.
  8. Upload Files
    • Attach relevant files (e.g., policy documents, transcripts) to the project for Claude to analyze and use.
  9. Manage and Reuse Projects
    • Projects are reusable workspaces. You can update instructions, upload new files, and iterate on outputs. For recurring tasks (e.g., lecture prep, meeting minutes), simply update the data and rerun the workflow.
  10. Share Projects
    • Use the share button in the project to invite others by email or make the project available to all university users. Shared projects appear under “Team” or “Shared with you” tabs.
  11. Access and Use Shared Projects
    • Find shared projects in the “Projects” section. You can view, copy, or use them as templates for your own work.
  12. Update Data
    • If your source files change, delete the old file and upload the new one, or link to a cloud location for dynamic updates.
  13. Iterate and Refine
    • Use Claude to review outputs, make corrections, and refine instructions as needed. You can ask Claude to regenerate summaries, emails, or reports based on new data or feedback.

Tips:

  • Always start with your desired outcome and let Claude guide you through the process.
  • Use advanced prompts for complex workflows and leverage shared projects for best practices.
  • For accessibility or technical issues, contact ITS or refer to the help resources provided.

From the ITS Enterprise Data and AI team