Access to Elettra and FERMI beamlines is offered every year to scientists from more than 50 different countries based on the scientific merit of the proposals they submit. Peer-review by an independent Proposal Review Panel of world-renowned experts in synchrotron radiation research and applications allows us to select the most deserving proposals. The User Area is designed to guide you through the facilities and services available at the Laboratory, help you prepare your proposal, and assist you before, during and after your measurements. We hope that you will find here "all you need to know" to make your stay at our Laboratory productive and enjoyable.