When your business runs on multiple systems—Salesforce for CRM, ERP for finance, a custom app for operations—you need them to talk to each other seamlessly. That’s where bidirectional data synchronization comes in. It ensures that when data changes in one system, it automatically updates in the other, creating a smooth and consistent data flow.

It’s a two-way data exchange where Salesforce and another system continuously update each other. For example, if a customer updates their address on your website, it should instantly reflect in Salesforce—and vice versa.

Because working with stale or inconsistent data can break processes, cause poor customer experiences, and create chaos across departments. Bidirectional sync eliminates these issues.

Even with two-way sync, you still need a primary system of record. Without it, both systems may try to overwrite each other.

Real-time sync → Instant updates using APIs or events
Batch sync → Scheduled updates using Bulk API or ETL tools

Most businesses use a hybrid of both depending on the data.

• APIs: REST, SOAP

• Change Data Capture (CDC)

• Platform Events

• Outbound Messages

• External Objects with Salesforce Connect

ERPs like SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite often require syncing for:

• Orders

• Inventory

• Customer data

• Payments

Syncing with tools like:

• HubSpot

• Marketo

• Pardot

Ensures consistent leads and campaign data.

Sync Salesforce with:

• Zendesk

• Freshdesk

• ServiceNow

So agents always have up-to-date customer info.

Companies often connect Salesforce to:

• In-house apps

• Mobile apps

• Partner portals

Bidirectional sync keeps everything aligned.

• REST API

• SOAP API

• Bulk API

These allow real-time notifications when records change.

Uses External Objects—perfect when you don’t want to store data in Salesforce but still view/edit it.

Tools like:

• MuleSoft

• Dell Boomi

• Informatica

• Jitterbit

help orchestrate complex synchronization logic.

Used when highly customized logic is required.

Central middleware handles all integrations—reduces complexity.

Simple but becomes messy as systems grow.

Uses events rather than APIs—real-time and scalable.

Best for enterprise-level integrations.

Two systems updating the same fields = trouble.

Slow sync can result in inconsistent data.

Different field types, data formats, and validation rules.

Salesforce API limits can stop or delay sync.

Retries, logging, and notifications must be planned.

Decide which system wins when conflicts happen.

Prevents duplicate data creation.

Essential for debugging sync failures.

Don’t sync everything—sync what matters.

Garbage in = garbage out.

Industry-standard authentication.

Salesforce Shield encrypts sensitive fields.

Limit access from known hosts only.

Imagine:

• A customer order is created in Salesforce

• ERP updates stock availability

• Salesforce updates the record automatically

ERP may be the source for inventory, Salesforce may be the source for customer details.

Setup alerts to notify sales reps when order status changes.

Bidirectional data synchronization in Salesforce isn’t just a technical feature—it’s a business necessity. It ensures your systems stay aligned, your teams stay informed, and your customers get the best possible experience. With the right architecture, tools, and best practices, you can build a robust sync that scales with your business.

No, many cases only need one-way sync.

Middleware like MuleSoft or Boomi is most reliable.

Yes—using Platform Events, CDC, and Streaming APIs.

Use external IDs and idempotent logic.

Absolutely—APIs and platform events make it easy.