Salesforce Connect vs Lightning Connect-Salesforce offers two prominent integration solutions: Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect, each designed to facilitate real-time data access and collaboration across different platforms.
What is Salesforce Connect?
Overview
Salesforce Connect is a feature-rich integration solution that allows Salesforce users to access and interact with data stored outside of Salesforce in real-time, without needing to copy or synchronize data into Salesforce.
Key Features
- External Data Integration: Access and view external data within Salesforce without data replication.
- Real-Time Access: Ensure data consistency and accuracy with real-time updates.
- Point-and-Click Configuration: Easily set up and configure external data sources using Salesforce Setup.
Use Cases
- Unified Customer View: Consolidate customer data from multiple systems to provide a holistic view.
- Cross-System Collaboration: Enable teams to collaborate and make informed decisions with up-to-date data.
- Legacy System Integration: Access data from legacy systems without migrating them into Salesforce.
What is Lightning Connect?
Overview
Lightning Connect, now known as External Objects in Salesforce Lightning Platform, provides a streamlined approach to integrate and view data from external sources directly within Salesforce applications.
Key Features
- Data Virtualization: Display external data in real-time within Salesforce as if it were native Salesforce data.
- Point-and-Click Integration: Easily set up connections to external data sources using Salesforce Setup.
- Standard Salesforce Features: Leverage Salesforce’s standard functionalities on external data, such as reports, dashboards, and workflows.
Use Cases
- Real-Time Reporting: Generate real-time reports and dashboards incorporating data from external systems.
- Agile Development: Develop and deploy applications faster by utilizing real-time data from external sources.
- Hybrid Cloud Integration: Facilitate seamless integration between Salesforce and other cloud-based or on-premises systems.
Salesforce Connect vs Lightning Connect: A Comparison
| Feature | Salesforce Connect | Lightning Connect |
|---|---|---|
| Data Integration | Real-time access to external data without replication | Virtualizes external data to appear as native Salesforce |
| Setup Complexity | Requires External Data Sources and External Objects | Point-and-click setup through Salesforce Setup |
| Use with Salesforce Tools | Works with Salesforce features like Reports and Dashboards | Utilizes standard Salesforce functionalities on external data |
| Scalability | Handles large volumes of data with efficient query optimization | Optimizes data access through Lightning Platform |
| Cost Considerations | Licensing based on data volumes and API calls | May incur additional costs for high data usage |
Uses of Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect
Salesforce Connect Uses
- Customer 360 View: Aggregate customer data from multiple systems for a unified view.
- Integration with ERP: Access ERP data like SAP or Oracle directly within Salesforce.
- Real-time Updates: Ensure sales and service teams have the latest customer information.
Lightning Connect Uses
- Real-time Reporting: Generate dynamic reports and dashboards using live external data.
- Hybrid Cloud Integration: Integrate Salesforce with hybrid cloud environments seamlessly.
- Streamlined Development: Build applications faster by leveraging real-time external data.
Benefits of Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect
Benefits of Salesforce Connect
- Data Consistency: Maintain data consistency across Salesforce and external systems.
- Real-Time Insights: Gain real-time insights without data duplication.
- Improved Efficiency: Reduce time spent on data synchronization and maintenance.
Benefits of Lightning Connect
- Native Salesforce Experience: Use standard Salesforce features on external data.
- Scalability: Handle large datasets efficiently with Lightning Platform optimizations.
- Agile Development: Develop and deploy applications faster with real-time data access.
FAQs about Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect
1. What are the main differences between Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect?
Salesforce Connect focuses on real-time data access without replication, while Lightning Connect virtualizes external data to appear as native Salesforce objects with real-time updates.
2. Can Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect integrate with on-premises systems?
Yes, both solutions support integration with on-premises and cloud-based systems using secure connections and APIs.
3. How do licensing and costs differ between Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect?
Salesforce Connect may involve licensing based on data volumes and API calls, while Lightning Connect costs may vary based on data usage and storage requirements.
4. What are some best practices for implementing Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect?
Best practices include defining clear data integration goals, mapping data relationships, securing API connections, and training users on accessing and utilizing external data effectively.
5. How scalable are Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect?
Both solutions are highly scalable, capable of handling large volumes of data and supporting growing business needs with efficient query optimization and data virtualization.
Conclusion
Choosing between Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect depends on your organization’s specific needs for data integration, real-time access, and Salesforce platform utilization. Salesforce Connect offers direct real-time access to external data sources, while Lightning Connect virtualizes external data as native Salesforce objects for seamless integration with standard Salesforce functionalities. By understanding their features, use cases, and benefits, organizations can leverage Salesforce Connect and Lightning Connect to enhance data-driven decision-making, streamline processes, and drive business growth in today’s interconnected digital landscape.
