Four Things To Consider Before Salesforce Integration
It’s no secret that Salesforce can be extremely beneficial for your business. It’s easy to learn and very convenient to use. But the key to getting the most bang for your buck when it comes to Salesforce is proper integration. The way in which you integrate Salesforce with your current business processes and goals will directly determine the results you get from your investment.
Why integrate?
Today, many companies use both on-premise and cloud-based programs to handle everyday workflow. Successful integration of these applications improves functionality and boosts overall performance.
In order to maximize Salesforce, you’ll need to integrate it with other databases, CRM, custom applications and/or ERP. A few of the benefits provided by proper integration include:
- Precise customer information
- Increased sales and marketing opportunities
- Forecasting capabilities
- Real time information updates
- Increased ROI
Things to consider for successful integration
1. Data volume
Think about how much data you actually need to store in Salesforce. Having a thorough audit of your storage needs can help reduce your overall costs. Data archiving will improve reporting, global search and save Salesforce space. Here are some options:
- Store data on Salesforce using the Big Data Object. You won’t be able to change the archived data, but it still will be available for reporting.
- External Object using OData protocol will store data on a third-party system, but it will still be available for Salesforce reporting.
- The Salesforce Analytics Cloud archives data so that you can free up space in Salesforce. All data stored in the cloud will still be available for reporting.
2. API limits
When connecting an external system to Salesforce, you will be faced with an API limit (24 hours for every organization.) It would be a good idea to consider this limit beforehand.
There are several APIs available: API. REST, SOAP, Bulk, and Streaming. Each of these has advantages and disadvantages. Note that only inbound calls are susceptible to limits, so depending on the size of your organization and number of daily requests, you need to choose the most appropriate one. One way Syntegrico works with clients to avoid these types of limits is to perform API synchronization initiated only through outbound Salesforce calls.
3. ETL (Extract Transform and Load tools)
ETL tools open the door to endless integration possibilities. Several ETL tools are available, from free data loaders to extremely complex paid solutions. Your overall requirements, (i.e., data amount needed to be transferred, necessity of live sync, type of system to be integrated), will determine how much money you need to invest in ETL. In most cases, a standard Data Loader will be enough.
4. Quality Assurance
An experienced team can identify and prevent problems in your Salesforce integration before they actually appear.
Our experienced consultants are always eager to help you with any Salesforce integration. We work with your organization to find the most cost effective and efficient way to integrate different components and provide you with comprehensive assistance and support.
A Syntegrico technical audit will show you how to get more from your Salesforce without spending a ton of money. Contact us to get a free consultation.
