An API call (POST/PUT) in Salesforce allows users to send data from Salesforce to external platforms or endpoints. This functionality is essential for creating or updating records in external systems, enabling seamless integration and data synchronization. Users have three different ways to run an API call (POST/PUT):
Conditionals: This method makes an API call to your platform or API endpoint when certain conditions or logic are met. For example, you can configure it to send data only when specific criteria in Salesforce are satisfied.
Use Case: Send data when specific criteria are met.
Example: Update customer information in an external CRM system when the status field changes in Salesforce.
Action Button: Create a custom button that makes an API call when clicked. Salesforce admins can add this button to record pages, allowing users to send data on-demand to external systems.
Use Case: On-demand data sending.
Example: Add a button to record pages that users can click to send the latest order details to an external system.
Schedule: Schedule API calls to run at specific times and frequencies defined by you. This is useful for periodic updates to external systems, reducing the need for manual data entry.
Use Case: Periodic data updates.
Example: Schedule nightly API calls to update product inventory levels in an external database.
Points to Consider While Using API Calls (POST/PUT) in Salesforce Packages:
Data Mapping: For the data to be sent, you can either define how the data should be mapped inside Salesforce or allow Salesforce admin users to map it themselves. We highly recommend letting Salesforce admins map the data, as each Salesforce org can be configured differently and may have unique requirements.
By leveraging different methods for API calls (POST/PUT) in Salesforce, users can ensure seamless data integration, enhance data accessibility, and maintain synchronized information across systems. This flexibility supports a wide range of business scenarios and user requirements.
