# Simplygon Pipelines
Pipelines are designed to make the life easier for users by encapsulating functionality such as processing settings and execution methods. Pipelines can be saved as text-based JSON files, please note that Pipeline files are intended to be used as intermediate communication layer while processing and may not be compatible across different versions of Simplygon. The Pipeline system is replacing older settings systems, which means that INI, SPL- and Preset formats are no longer supported. The job distribution system (that was previously part of Simplygon Grid) is now part of Pipelines.
# Next steps
Get to know how to work with Pipelines: