CRM - gettectonic.com - Page 16
Migrating from Zoho to Salesforce
03Jun

Migrating from Zoho to Salesforce

Migrating from Zoho to Salesforce is a major undertaking that can significantly enhance a business’s CRM processes as it scales. To ensure a smooth transition, careful planning, data preparation, and execution are essential for accurate and efficient data transfer. In this guide, we’ll outline a step-by-step approach to migrating from Zoho to Salesforce, covering everything from pre-migration planning to post-migration follow-up. Step 1: Pre-Migration Planning 1. Evaluate Your Business RequirementsBegin by assessing your current and future CRM needs. Identify critical functionalities in Zoho that you depend on and determine which Salesforce features will either replace or enhance them. Consider: This evaluation ensures that Salesforce is configured to align with your business processes during the migration. 2. Assign a Project TeamForming a dedicated project team is crucial for a successful migration. Include stakeholders from various departments, designate a project manager to oversee the migration, and enlist CRM specialists familiar with both Zoho and Salesforce. You might also consider hiring a certified Salesforce consultant or partner to assist with technical aspects. 3. Backup Your DataBefore starting the migration, back up your data from Zoho. Export all relevant information, including: This backup ensures you have a complete copy in case any issues arise during the migration. Step 2: Preparing Salesforce for Migration 1. Customize Salesforce to Fit Your NeedsNow is the time to tailor Salesforce to reflect your existing business processes. Review the custom fields, objects, workflows, and automations in Zoho, replicating or enhancing them in Salesforce. Salesforce’s high customization level allows you to optimize your CRM for your team’s specific needs. 2. Set Up IntegrationsIf you’ve been using third-party tools integrated with Zoho, establish the corresponding integrations in Salesforce. The Salesforce AppExchange offers a range of integrations, from email marketing platforms to accounting systems. Ensure the necessary tools are connected before migrating your data. Step 3: Data Migration 1. Map Data FieldsTo facilitate accurate data transfer between Zoho and Salesforce, map your Zoho data fields to their Salesforce counterparts. For instance, “Account Name” in Zoho should correspond to “Account” in Salesforce. Create equivalent custom fields in Salesforce if they exist in Zoho. 2. Cleanse Your DataData cleansing is vital to ensure only relevant, accurate, and up-to-date information is migrated. Remove duplicates, outdated contacts, and incorrect data from Zoho. This step streamlines the migration process and enhances the quality of your Salesforce database. 3. Choose a Migration ToolSelect an appropriate tool for migrating data between CRMs, such as: Depending on your data’s complexity, choose a tool that provides additional support, such as mapping or automation features. 4. Perform a Test MigrationConduct a test migration using a subset of your data before proceeding with the full migration. This allows you to verify that everything transfers correctly and identify any issues with data formatting, relationships between objects, or custom fields. Adjust your mapping and migration processes based on the test results. Step 4: Full Data Migration Once you’re satisfied with the test migration results, proceed with the complete data migration from Zoho to Salesforce. This process may take time, depending on your data’s size and complexity, so plan for downtime or staggered migrations to minimize disruptions to your team’s workflow. Step 5: Post-Migration Setup and Testing 1. Validate Your DataAfter the full migration, verify that all data has been transferred accurately. Check for discrepancies between Zoho and Salesforce records, ensuring that relationships (e.g., contacts linked to accounts) remain intact. 2. Recreate Automation and WorkflowsRe-establish any automations, workflows, or triggers that were functioning in Zoho within Salesforce. Utilize Salesforce’s automation tools, like Process Builder or Flow, to replicate these processes. Adjust them as necessary to leverage Salesforce’s advanced capabilities. 3. Train Your TeamSuccessful migration extends beyond data transfer; it’s crucial to ensure your team is equipped to use Salesforce effectively. Conduct training sessions focused on new features and workflows, providing documentation or cheat sheets to facilitate adjustment. 4. Monitor System PerformancePost-migration, monitor your Salesforce instance for any performance issues or data inconsistencies. Make necessary adjustments and ensure that integrations are functioning as expected. Step 6: Post-Migration Follow-Up 1. Run Parallel OperationsConsider operating both systems in parallel for a brief period to confirm Salesforce is fully functional before phasing out Zoho. This allows your team to continue using Zoho if critical issues arise in Salesforce during the transition. 2. Optimize Your Salesforce InstanceOver time, identify opportunities to further customize and optimize Salesforce to meet your evolving needs. Regularly review workflows, automations, and reporting to fully utilize Salesforce’s advanced features. Who Should You Work With A successful migration from Zoho to Salesforce involves key stakeholders from various departments to ensure the new CRM setup aligns with company processes. Typical Migration Timelines The duration of a Zoho to Salesforce migration typically depends on your data’s complexity and the required customizations. For smaller businesses with straightforward CRM setups, the process may take 4 to 6 weeks, encompassing planning, data mapping, testing, and training. However, larger organizations with extensive custom fields, workflows, and third-party integrations may require 3 to 6 months. Allow ample time for thorough testing and validation to ensure data accuracy and system functionality before going live. User training and post-migration follow-up are also critical for a smooth transition. Conclusion Migrating from Zoho to Salesforce is a growth step in enhancing your company’s CRM capabilities and positioning it for future growth. By meticulously planning your migration, cleansing your data, and configuring Salesforce to meet your business requirements, you can facilitate a smooth transition and leverage Salesforce’s powerful features from day one. With the right preparation and support, your business will be well-equipped to scale, streamline operations, and achieve long-term success using Salesforce. If you need assistance with your migration, don’t hesitate to contact Tectonic for a quote. Content updated September 2024. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented

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June 3, 2023in Data, Mulesoft, Salesforce
AI Drives Insights
07Apr

AI Drives Insights

Innovations from Salesforce, HubSpot, and One AI are driving deeper insights and streamlining processes. Key Takeaways: AI is transforming the way businesses operate, and customer relationship management (CRM) is no exception. AI has been influencing the CRM space for years, but its impact is now reaching new heights. By harnessing AI algorithms, modern CRM systems offer predictive analytics and deeper insights, enabling brands to understand their customers on an unprecedented level. Advanced AI-enabled CRMs even incorporate sentiment analysis to gauge customer perceptions and provide automation tools to free marketers from mundane tasks. The global AI market, currently valued at $142.3 billion, continues to expand rapidly. From 2020 to 2022, annual corporate investments in AI startups increased by $5 billion, reflecting the growing demand for AI-driven innovations. As CRM vendors introduce more AI capabilities, it’s important to understand the unique approaches each one takes to differentiate themselves and deliver specific benefits. Salesforce and Einstein GPT: A New Era with OpenAI’s ChatGPT On March 7, 2023, Salesforce introduced Einstein GPT, a generative AI technology integrated into its CRM platform. Combining real-time data from Salesforce’s Data Cloud with OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Einstein GPT allows users to input natural-language prompts to streamline tasks and decision-making. Salesforce has long invested in AI. In 2017, it launched its Einstein AI as part of Service Cloud. By 2019, Salesforce had partnered with OpenAI to explore AI research and integrate advanced models into its ecosystem. The acquisition of Slack in 2020 further strengthened its AI capabilities by incorporating advanced messaging and communication tools into the CRM environment. Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, highlighted the significance of AI’s growth: “The world is experiencing one of the most profound technological shifts with real-time technologies and generative AI. This comes at a pivotal moment as every company is focused on connecting with their customers in more intelligent, automated, and personalized ways.” Einstein GPT is set to transform customer engagement, with applications across Salesforce’s various platforms, including Tableau, MuleSoft, and Slack. HubSpot CRM: AI-Powered Content Assistant A day before Salesforce’s AI announcement, HubSpot revealed its own AI-powered features: the Content Assistant and ChatSpot.ai. These tools aim to enhance CRM users’ productivity while creating stronger connections with customers. HubSpot’s Content Assistant helps marketing and sales teams ideate, create, and share content through generative AI capabilities. It can suggest blog titles, create content outlines, and assist with crafting content for blogs, emails, landing pages, and websites. ChatSpot.ai, on the other hand, offers a natural-language chat experience to simplify CRM tasks for HubSpot users. HubSpot has also invested in AI for other functions, including conversation intelligence, data enrichment, predictive analytics, and content optimization, solidifying its position in the AI-driven CRM landscape. With AI advancements from companies like Salesforce, HubSpot, and One AI, the future of CRM is poised for enhanced efficiency, automation, and personalized customer interactions. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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April 7, 2023in Generative AI, Mulesoft, Salesforce
Salesforce Customization Steps
22Mar

Salesforce Customization Steps

Comprehensive Salesforce Customization Steps Executing a successful SFDC customization requires a structured approach. This detailed plan outlines the 12 essential steps to ensure project success. Following this structured customization plan ensures efficient project execution and maximizes the benefits of Salesforce customization for your organization. Each step contributes to the successful implementation and adoption of tailored Salesforce solutions. Salesforce Customization Steps. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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March 22, 2023in Hyperforce, Salesforce
Salesforce for Retail
24Jan

Salesforce for Retail

Salesforce for retail is widely utilized, offering a tailored CRM solution that empowers users to efficiently manage inventory, orders, and deliveries from a customized platform. With insights into customer purchase patterns and history, businesses can craft personalized shopping experiences, fostering loyalty and satisfaction. The platform facilitates the integration of diverse revenue streams, enabling the creation of a seamless omnichannel experience that harmonizes with all facets of the business. Mobile support ensures that employees can assist customers from anywhere, fostering accessibility and responsiveness. Additionally, Salesforce keeps the entire team aligned on the sales process, promoting collaboration and maximizing results. In the retail industry, Salesforce is indispensable for maintaining inventory visibility across different levels, minimizing leaks, and ensuring timely order tracking and delivery management. Its smart targeting capabilities drive awareness and acquisition, making marketing efforts more effective. Leveraging the commerce cloud, Salesforce transforms shoppers into buyers faster, delivering a seamless experience across web, social media, mobile, and physical stores. By automating manual tasks, Salesforce boosts the productivity of sales teams, allowing them to access crucial information via mobile devices even amidst busy schedules. Companies utilizing Salesforce CRM in retail harness the platform to understand and prioritize customer needs, develop targeted marketing strategies, and deliver timely and relevant messages. For businesses seeking to leverage Salesforce CRM effectively, a Salesforce CRM users list provides case studies from leading companies in the retail sector, such as Pepe Jeans and Loreal. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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January 24, 2023in Salesforce
Salesforce Integration
19Nov

Salesforce Implementation Services

As certified experts, Tectonic offers comprehensive Salesforce implementation, management, and support services. Seek professional guidance from a trusted Salesforce Partner. Tectonic’s Salesforce implementation services encompass consulting, configuration, customization, migration, integration, support, and more. With over a decade of experience in CRM development, Tectonic assists companies in implementing robust Salesforce solutions that empower their sales, customer service, and marketing processes. Who participates in Salesforce implementation? The implementation team should include sales agents, customer service representatives, IT experts, marketers, general users, and business administrators. And of course, your Salesforce implementation partner. As an experienced Salesforce Partner, we follow a proven six-phase approach to ensure project success: Kickoff, Discovery, Build, Test, Deploy, and Service. Is it possible to implement Salesforce independently? Yes, but, we strongly discourage attempting a solo Salesforce implementation, especially if you are new to the platform. While Salesforce provides an admin-friendly interface, the risk of creating a non-scalable solution is high without expert guidance. Do you need a Salesforce implementation partner? In cases involving large-scale projects requiring a team of 10+ Consultants, engaging a Certified Implementation Partner is recommended. What are the critical success factors for Salesforce implementation? A well-defined strategy aligned with business goals, user training, effective data migration, proper customization, ongoing support, user adoption, clear communication, and commitment to continuous improvement are crucial elements. How long does Salesforce implementation take? On average, implementation for core products like Sales Cloud takes 5 to 12 weeks. The timeline may extend for a few months with add-ons or highly customized projects. How challenging is Salesforce implementation? Implementing Salesforce can be challenging and overwhelming, with up to 70% of CRM platform implementations facing difficulties. Salesforce itself recommends working with a Salesforce Implementation partner. One of the biggest challenges with the Salesforce platform is that it is highly customizable, this is not software you install and run with. Being highly customizable, however, is also why Salesforce is the number one CRM solution in the world. Why do Salesforce implementations fail? Failures in Salesforce implementations can result from fundamental data problems such as incomplete, inaccurate, or duplicative data, leading to issues like poor customer experience and incorrect budget forecasting. The lifecycle of Salesforce development involves planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance phases. The development process includes analyzing requirements, designing a solution, building and testing, and deploying it to end users. Is it time to explore bringing in a Salesforce implementation partner? Contact Tectonic today. Like1 Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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November 19, 2022in Data, Salesforce, Salesforce Implementation Services
Salesforce CDP
16Nov

CDP Salesforce

What is a CDP in Salesforce? A customer data platform (CDP) is an application that gathers, organizes and enriches data from multiple sources, while being marketer-centric, versus sales/service-centric like a CRM. It is a key enabler to organizations that want to maximize return on all the data they have collected and own around their customers. The CDP combines all the data from all the sources in real time so you can make hyper-personalized offers and experiences that feel like magic. This means connecting all the customer data back to email engines, demand-side platforms, and content management systems. What is the difference between Salesforce Genie and CDP? SFDC CDP follows the audience segmentation + data activation protocols. Salesforce Genie allows for data unification and identity resolution. Is CDP same as data cloud? Data Cloud shares the same purpose and benefits that CDPs deliver – however Data Cloud is not the same as the technology that was formerly Salesforce CDP. Data Cloud takes CDP’s capabilities, and extends the benefits right across the “Customer 360” (i.e. Salesforce’s product portfolio). What can a Customer Data Platform do for your brand? CDPs connect customer data so every team has insight into how a customer interacts with you on every platform. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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November 16, 2022in Data, Google, Salesforce, Salesforce Hospitality Travel and Transportation, Salesforce Implementation Services, Technology
Salesforce Slack
09Nov

Enable Salesforce for Slack Integrations

Seamlessly integrate Salesforce and Slack to unlock enhanced collaboration through Slack apps, tools, and services. Follow these admin procedures to enable Salesforce for Slack integrations. Required User Permissions To set up and use Salesforce for Slack, ensure users have the appropriate permissions or permission sets: Action Required Permissions/Permission Sets Connect Salesforce and Slack Connect Salesforce with Slack (system permission on supported Salesforce licenses) Use the Sales Cloud for Slack app Slack Sales User Use the PRM for Slack app PRM for Slack app Salesforce User or PRM for Slack Partner app User Use the Service Cloud for Slack app Connect Salesforce with Slack, Slack Service User, Run Flows Use the CRM Analytics for Slack app Connect Salesforce with Slack Also recommended: Note: Salesforce for Slack apps are not supported in Government Cloud or Government Cloud Plus orgs. Do not enable this feature in such environments. Contact your Salesforce Account Executive for more details. Steps to Enable Salesforce for Slack Integrations Follow these steps to set up and enable the integration: 1. Navigate to Slack Apps Setup 2. Accept Terms and Conditions 3. Enable Applications 4. Set Up Required Permissions 5. Configure Object Permissions 6. Install Slack Apps 7. Complete Additional App Setup 8. Customize Field Access (Optional) For Individual Users After the integration is complete, instruct users to: By following these steps, you can ensure seamless Salesforce and Slack integration, enhancing productivity and collaboration across your organization. Content updated October 2024. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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November 9, 2022in Enterprise, Salesforce, Salesforce Slack
Salesforce Lightning
03Nov

Why Migrate From Salesforce Classic to Salesforce Lightning?

Why Switch from Salesforce Classic to Lightning? Salesforce is actively advancing the Lightning interface, and the reasons are compelling. The Lightning platform offers numerous advantages, including an improved user interface, quicker development times, and extensive customization options. With user-friendly features like drag-and-drop functionality, Lightning enhances the overall user experience (UX). Many companies are opting to migrate from Salesforce Classic to Salesforce Lightning to leverage these benefits and more. Salesforce Classic Salesforce Classic served as the primary interface until 2016, but today, it is considered outdated. Investing in Lightning Experience is driven by the desire to deliver a superior user experience, adopt features solving business challenges, enhance processes, and gain access to Lightning innovation and rapid app development technology. Given that Salesforce Lightning is faster, provides advanced customization features, and boasts easier navigation compared to Classic, transitioning to Lightning in 2023 can be a strategic decision for your business. Lightning also integrates Salesforce Einstein, offering reporting, analytics, and generative AI capabilities. Salesforce Lightning In contrast to Classic, the Lightning development platform enables non-technical users to effortlessly create customized apps without programming knowledge. Due to its sleek UI, faster performance, regular feature releases, and comprehensive usability, Salesforce Lightning has become the preferred CRM for businesses. Migration However, migrating from Salesforce Classic to Lightning, or any other CRM to Lightning, presents challenges, including high implementation time. Opting for a phased rollout is an effective approach to overcome these challenges. While challenges may arise, a strategic plan executed by experienced Salesforce Lightning Support can ensure a seamless and timely migration. If you’re ready to migrate to Salesforce Lightning, especially if your Salesforce is highly customized, it’s crucial to document all changes made in Classic and identify corresponding solutions in Lightning. If handling the complexities of Classic seems daunting, consider engaging a Salesforce Migration partner like Tectonic to conduct a full Salesforce audit before migrating to Salesforce Lightning, ensuring a smooth transition. Content updated December 2023. Like1 Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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November 3, 2022in Data, Generative AI, Salesforce, Salesforce Einstein, Technology
Salesforce Security and Privacy
02Nov

Salesforce Security and Privacy

Tailor Salesforce security and privacy add-on solutions to fit your specific company needs, covering essential aspects such as monitoring and masking sensitive data, implementing backups to prevent accidental or malicious data loss, and ensuring compliance with evolving privacy, encryption, and data residency regulations. Maintaining data privacy and compliance is made easier with user-friendly tools that streamline processes in Salesforce. Reduce compliance costs and enhance customer data protection by automating data subject requests, managing consent efficiently, and consolidating identities into a single profile. Simplify privacy management while safeguarding customer data effectively. Protecting data in production involves various strategies to meet legal obligations and minimize risk. Utilize methods such as randomization for unique data, hardcoding for static values, and deletion when data is unnecessary. Additionally, minimize storage in your production org by automatically deleting old records and files, removing audit data, and implementing hard deletion when appropriate. Automate data subject requests to save time and ensure efficient processing. Create policies to fulfill Right To Be Forgotten and Data Subject Access Requests automatically, monitor request progress, and utilize Privacy Hold to prevent data anonymization or deletion. Streamline customer consent management with Preference Manager, capturing customer preferences to maintain compliance and trust. Use customizable templates for consent forms, enable customers to update preferences easily, and integrate responses into the Salesforce Consent Data Model for consistency. Secure access management and unify customer identities across diverse sources. Administer customer profiles seamlessly within Salesforce, tailor customer journeys across various channels, and enhance personalization. Implement Passwordless Login for a simplified registration and access experience, catering to mobile-first markets and enhancing user convenience. Enable Social Sign On to streamline registration using familiar social credentials, reducing friction and improving the overall user experience. Maximize ROI with Salesforce’s Success Ecosystem, offering support, expert guidance, and resources to unlock the full potential of your investment. Salesforce prioritizes security and transparency, providing robust data processing mechanisms and privacy commitments to ensure compliance with data protection laws. As the leading CRM platform, Salesforce empowers organizations to build trust while leveraging data intelligence to enhance customer experiences. Embrace a Zero Trust security strategy, grounded in the principle of least privilege, to fortify your organization’s security posture. Implementing Zero Trust requires continuous authentication and restricting access to essential resources, mitigating the risk of unauthorized network access. Adhere to the Principle of Least Privilege within your Salesforce org by granting minimal permissions necessary for users’ roles. Conduct regular privilege audits to prevent over-privileged users and maintain compliance with security best practices. Stay informed about upcoming changes, such as the end-of-life of permissions on profiles, and explore additional security measures to strengthen your Salesforce instance’s security further. Ensure data security at rest with encryption-enabled databases and adherence to regional data laws, such as GDPR. Salesforce’s secure server environment and robust firewall technologies protect customer data from external intruders. In order to keep your data secure and private, prioritize data privacy and security in your Salesforce implementation by leveraging tailored solutions, adopting best practices, and fostering collaboration between your organization, Salesforce, and security teams. For assistance doing an audit of your system’s security or adding security features, contact Tectonic today. Content updated March 2024. Like1 Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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November 2, 2022in Data, Laws, Salesforce
Marketing Cloud Admins
31Aug

Marketing Cloud Admins

Salesforce Marketing Cloud Administrators play a key role in ensuring the success of an organization’s marketing efforts. Their responsibilities span system configuration, data management, campaign development, and execution. These professionals need a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and keen attention to detail to effectively manage and optimize the Marketing Cloud environment. System Configuration and AdministrationMarketing Cloud Admins are responsible for setting up and configuring user accounts, defining roles and permissions, and customizing the system to meet specific organizational needs. They stay current on Salesforce updates, conducting system audits to maintain security and performance. Admins also oversee platform customization, aligning it with business goals. Data Management and SegmentationEffective data management is crucial for personalized marketing. Admins manage data imports, exports, and integration with other systems, ensuring data cleanliness and compliance with privacy regulations. They create audience segments based on specific criteria to enable targeted campaigns. Campaign Development and ExecutionAdmins work closely with marketing teams to develop and execute email, SMS, and social media campaigns. They set up customer journeys, implement automation, and ensure campaigns are delivered as planned. Monitoring performance and analyzing metrics allows admins to optimize campaigns and provide insights for future strategies. Integration and AutomationAdmins integrate Marketing Cloud with CRM systems, e-commerce platforms, and third-party apps. They streamline workflows by automating processes through tools like Journey Builder and Automation Studio, ensuring data consistency and efficiency. Troubleshooting and SupportAdmins provide technical support and troubleshoot issues related to system errors, data synchronization, and campaign delivery. They collaborate with Salesforce support to resolve complex problems, ensuring smooth operations and minimal downtime. Training and DocumentationTraining users on Marketing Cloud tools and developing comprehensive documentation are also key responsibilities. Admins ensure users are well-versed in the platform’s features and best practices, helping maintain consistent performance across teams. Monitoring and ReportingAdmins track key performance indicators (KPIs) and generate reports to analyze campaign success. By using tools like Analytics Builder, they offer data-driven insights that help improve marketing strategies and align them with business objectives. Skills Required for Salesforce Marketing Cloud AdminsAdmins must have strong technical aptitude, familiarity with Salesforce tools like Email Studio and Journey Builder, and proficiency in SQL, HTML, and APIs for system integration. Problem-solving skills are critical for diagnosing and resolving issues, and data management expertise is essential for organizing and analyzing marketing data. FAQs: If you are in need of Marketing Cloud assistance, contact Tectonic today. Content updated September 2024. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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August 31, 2022in Salesforce Implementation Services, Salesforce Marketing Automation, Salesforce Marketing Cloud
Revenue Cloud
26Aug

Revenue Cloud

Salesforce Revenue Cloud serves as an all-encompassing platform meticulously crafted to enhance and simplify the entire revenue management process for businesses. This cloud-based solution provides a centralized system, facilitating effective management of pricing, quoting, and billing operations. The platform, introduced as part of the Salesforce Customer 360 Platform, integrates Configure, Price and Quote (CPQ), Billing, Partner Relationship Management, and B2B Commerce functionalities. Contrary to an out-of-the-box solution, Salesforce Revenue Cloud does not replace enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems but strives to bridge the gap between critical functional departments like sales, partners, operations, and finance. Its introduction at the end of 2020 aimed to assist businesses in better managing revenue streams, enhancing forecasting capabilities, improving efficiencies, and accelerating growth across all sales channels. Salesforce Revenue Cloud, often referred to as CPQ, enables organizations to unify direct sales, partner sales, and eCommerce, package product bundles, handle complex order configurations, produce invoices across multiple channels, collect payments, and manage dunning. The platform’s benefits include streamlined revenue management, improved business agility, real-time access to mobile inventory and data, and the generation of new revenue streams. In addition to these advantages, Salesforce Revenue Cloud offers better insight into customers, maximizes revenue efficiency, builds a superior buyer experience, and reduces missed opportunities by delivering the right product at the right time to the right place. The platform eliminates manual operations, integrates with existing systems and new applications, and expedites the quote-to-cash process. However, it’s essential to consider certain aspects when opting for Salesforce Revenue Cloud, such as its limitations in handling complex billing needs. While Salesforce provides substantial capabilities for recurring revenue and subscription models, it may face challenges with more intricate pricing models, such as dynamic pricing for one-time charges, usage, tiered, subscription, overages, minimum commitments, or others. In conclusion, the collaboration between CRM and marketing departments, fueled by Salesforce Revenue Cloud, propels an increase in sales and enables a comprehensive view of the customer. As businesses demand a 360-degree perspective, the product-specific gap is expected to narrow further, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach across all company departments. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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August 26, 2022in Data, Enterprise, Salesforce, Salesforce Revenue Cloud
salesforce private lending
23Aug

Private Lending Simplified

Private Lending Simplified: Unlocking Success with Salesforce In the dynamic world of private lending, technology is transforming the way lenders operate. Salesforce stands out as a powerful platform, enabling private lenders to optimize processes, enhance borrower relationships, and drive sustainable growth. Let’s explore how Salesforce can simplify private lending and boost efficiency. The Landscape of Private Lending and Its Challenges Private lending refers to providing loans to individuals or businesses outside of traditional banks. While this approach offers flexibility and faster approvals, it also comes with challenges such as: Given these complexities, lenders need robust tools to manage the entire loan lifecycle effectively. The Role of Loan Management Software in Private Lending Loan management software is indispensable for automating and streamlining lending operations. Salesforce, with its flexible loan management capabilities, is particularly well-suited for private lenders. Key functionalities include: 1. Automated Underwriting Salesforce enables automated underwriting by using predefined rules and algorithms to evaluate borrower eligibility. This speeds up decision-making, reduces manual errors, and ensures consistency. 2. Loan Processing A centralized system in Salesforce allows lenders to track applications, manage documentation, and communicate with borrowers, ensuring no step in the process is overlooked. 3. Loan Servicing Post-loan disbursement, Salesforce’s integration capabilities support repayment tracking, automated reminders, and delinquency management, ensuring seamless loan servicing. Why Private Lenders Turn to Salesforce Salesforce empowers private lenders with tools designed to optimize every stage of the lending process. 1. Customizable Solutions Salesforce’s flexibility allows lenders to create workflows tailored to different loan types, whether it’s mortgage servicing or merchant cash advance (MCA) underwriting. 2. Advanced Data Management With secure, cloud-based infrastructure, Salesforce ensures easy access to data anytime, anywhere. This not only enhances decision-making through analytics but also supports regulatory compliance. 3. Enhanced Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Strong borrower relationships are key to private lending success. Salesforce’s CRM tools help lenders manage interactions from initial inquiries to post-loan follow-ups, ensuring clients feel supported throughout their journey. 4. Seamless Integration Salesforce integrates effortlessly with other financial tools, such as microfinance platforms and construction loan management software, creating a unified ecosystem for managing diverse loan portfolios. Choosing the Right Loan Management Solution When adopting Salesforce or similar platforms for private lending, consider the following: For private lenders, specialized solutions like Fundingo, built on Salesforce, can take operational efficiency to the next level. Conclusion Salesforce is transforming private lending by simplifying operations and strengthening lender-borrower relationships. With tools to manage the entire loan lifecycle—from underwriting to servicing—private lenders can increase efficiency, maintain compliance, and enhance customer satisfaction. Adopting advanced technologies like Salesforce positions private lenders for long-term success in an increasingly competitive market. Are you ready to harness the power of Salesforce for your private lending business? Let’s connect and explore how Tectonic can streamline your processes. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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August 23, 2022in Data, Salesforce Financial Services Solutions, Technology
Digital Transformation for Life Sciences
19Aug

Digital Transformation for Life Sciences

In hindsight, one remarkable aspect of the COVID crisis was the speed with which vaccines passed through regulatory approval processes to address the pandemic emergency. Approvals that would typically take years were expedited to mere months, a pace not usually seen in the life sciences industry. It was an extraordinary situation, as Paul Shawah, Senior Vice President of Commercial Strategy at Veeva Systems, notes: “There were things that were unnaturally fast during COVID. There was a shifting of priorities, a shifting of focus. In some cases, you had the emergency approvals or the expedited approvals of the vaccines that you saw in the early days, so there was faster growth. Everything was kind of different in the COVID environment.” Today, the industry is not operating at that same rapid pace, but the impact of this acceleration remains significant: “What it did do is it challenged companies to think about why can’t we operate faster at a steady state? There was an old steady state, then there was COVID speed. The industry is trying to get to a new steady state. It won’t be as fast as during COVID because of unique circumstances, but expectations are now much higher. This drives a need to modernize systems, embrace the cloud, become more digital, and improve efficiency.” Companies like Veeva, alongside enterprise giants such as Salesforce, SAP, and Oracle, specialize in this market and play crucial roles in life sciences digitization. According to a McKinsey study, about 45% of tech spending in life sciences goes to three key technologies: applied Artificial Intelligence, industrialized Machine Learning, and Cloud Computing. Over 80% of the top 20 global pharma and medtech companies are operating in the cloud to some extent. However, a study by Accenture found that life sciences firms are among the lowest in achieving benefits from cloud investments, with only 43% satisfied with their results and less than a quarter confident that cloud migration initiatives will deliver the promised value within expected time frames. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Frank Defesche, SVP & GM of Life Sciences at Salesforce, sees it as the latter, stating: “The life sciences industry faces increased competition, evolving patient expectations, and ongoing pressure to bring devices and drugs to market faster. With rising drug costs, frustrated doctors, and varying regulatory scrutiny, life sciences organizations must find ways to do more with less.” The industry also contends with an unprecedented influx of data and disparate systems, making it difficult to move quickly. Addressing changes one by one is too slow and costly. Defesche believes that a systemic solution, fueled by connected data and Artificial Intelligence (AI), is key to overcoming these challenges. Paul Shawah of Veeva emphasizes the unique challenges of the life sciences sector: “Life sciences firms primarily do two things: discover and develop medicines, and commercialize them by educating doctors and getting the right drugs to patients. The drug development cycle includes clinical trials, managing everything related to drug safety, the manufacturing process, and ensuring quality. They also manage regulatory registrations. On the commercial side, it’s about reaching out to doctors and healthcare professionals.” Veeva’s Vault platform is designed for life sciences, with customers like Merck, Eli Lilly, and Boehringer Ingelheim. Shawah acknowledges it’s “still relatively early days” for cloud computing adoption but notes successes in areas like CRM, where Veeva achieved over 80% market share by standardizing processes and reducing technical debt. Other areas, like parts of the clinical trials process, remain largely untapped by cloud computing. Shawah sees opportunities to improve patient experiences and make the process more efficient. AI represents a significant area of opportunity. Shawah explains Veeva’s approach: “I’ll break AI into two categories: traditional AI, Machine Learning, and data science, which we’ve been doing for a long time, and generative AI, which is new. We’re focusing on finding use cases that create sustainable, repeatable value. We’re building capabilities into our Vault platform to support AI.” Joe Ferraro, VP of Product, Life Sciences at Salesforce, emphasizes AI’s critical role: “We are born out of the data and AI era, and we’re taking that philosophy into everything we do from a product standpoint. We aim to move from creating a system of record to a system of insight, using data and AI to transform how users interact with software.” Ferraro highlights the need for change: “Organizations told us, ‘Please don’t build the same thing we have now. We are mired in fragmented experiences. Our sales and marketing teams aren’t talking, and our medical and commercial teams don’t understand each other.’ Life Sciences Cloud aims to move the industry from these fragmented experiences to an end-to-end, AI-powered experience engine.” The COVID crisis highlighted the critical role of the life sciences industry. There’s a massive opportunity for digital transformation, whether through specialists like Veeva or enterprise players like Salesforce, Oracle, and SAP. Data must be the foundation of any solution, especially amidst the current AI hype cycle. Ensuring this data is well-managed is a crucial starting point for industry-wide change. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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August 19, 2022in Generative AI, Life Sciences Cloud
Custom Fiscal Forecasts in Revenue Insights
17Aug

Custom Fiscal Forecasts in Revenue Insights

Custom Fiscal Years in Salesforce: A Complete Guide Many companies customize their fiscal years, quarters, and weeks to align with their financial planning needs. Salesforce supports this customization by allowing the definition of Custom Fiscal Years. When to Use Custom Fiscal Years in Salesforce If your company follows the Gregorian calendar year but simply wants to change the fiscal year start month, the standard fiscal year option in Salesforce will suffice. However, if your company uses a non-standard fiscal year structure, enabling Custom Fiscal Years in Salesforce is necessary to accurately define your unique fiscal timeline. Enabling a Custom Fiscal Year in Salesforce impacts your forecasts, quotas, and reports. It’s important to note that configuring a Custom Fiscal Year will delete all existing forecast history and records from the first period of the fiscal year onward. Using Custom Fiscal Forecasts in Revenue Insights If your forecast types are configured with custom fiscal quarters or periods, you can leverage them in Revenue Insights. For instance, you can analyze the total amount of closed-won opportunities for a custom fiscal period defined for your team. Where: This feature is available in Sales Cloud within Lightning Experience in Enterprise and Unlimited editions, but it comes with an additional cost. How: To use this feature, you must enable custom fiscal year usage in Data Prep. Navigate to Data Prep Settings in Analytics Object Manager, then click “Enable Date Settings.” The Importance of Sales Forecasting Sales forecasting is essential for businesses as it helps anticipate future sales and enables informed decision-making. Accurate sales forecasts lead to better resource allocation, inventory management, and financial planning. Salesforce, a leading CRM platform, is widely used by sales teams to enhance their sales operations. Its robust sales forecasting capabilities allow businesses to create precise revenue forecasts, driving growth. However, for companies with revenue from usage-based products, bookings, or subscriptions, there are challenges in fully leveraging Salesforce’s revenue forecasting potential. Why Salesforce is a Powerful Tool for Sales Teams Salesforce’s extensive CRM capabilities and the AppExchange marketplace, offering numerous solutions to extend its functionality, contribute to its effectiveness in forecasting. The platform allows businesses to manage both existing clients and potential leads, track customer behavior, and create targeted sales strategies. Salesforce’s forecasting tools enable sales teams to predict both short-term and long-term performance, which is crucial for making informed business decisions. By leveraging these tools, businesses can set team quotas, continuously monitor sales progress, and work toward achieving their company goals. However, companies with revenue spread over time, such as through bookings or subscriptions, may face challenges in extracting accurate financial insights from Salesforce for planning and analysis. Automating revenue forecasting can help reduce manual errors and lead to smarter decisions. Sales Forecasting in Salesforce Salesforce Sales Team Sales Cloud Salesforce Implementation SolutionSalesforce offers customizable forecasting, allowing users to create custom fields, adjust forecast settings, and modify forecast categories as needed. The native Salesforce Sales Cloud forecasts page displays forecast amounts based on the totals and subtotals of opportunity stages. Salesforce’s forecast categories classify sales opportunities based on the sales team‘s confidence level in closing the deal. Typical forecast categories include: Customizable forecasting and forecast categories in Salesforce enable sales teams to create more accurate revenue forecasts and plan more effectively for the future. Revenue Forecasting in Salesforce While Salesforce’s forecasting tool is effective for estimating future sales revenue, it has limitations in revenue forecasting. Often, revenue forecasting in Salesforce is done manually through spreadsheets, which can be error-prone and time-consuming. This can lead to visibility issues for financial planning and analysis, as well as for sales operations teams. Manual creation of revenue forecasts and reports increases the risk of inaccuracies due to human error. Cloud-based integrations like revVana’s Salesforce Revenue Forecasting can help. By converting forecasts from pipeline and closed opportunities into revenue streams, revVana automates and streamlines revenue forecasting, providing real-time insights on CRM data and reducing manual errors. Conclusion Custom Fiscal Years in Salesforce allow for precise data analysis over extended periods, aiding in the effective analysis of revenue, earnings, and other expenses. By understanding and leveraging Salesforce’s advanced capabilities, businesses can enhance their forecasting processes and make more informed financial decisions. Content updated June 2024. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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August 17, 2022in Salesforce Optimization, Salesforce Sales Cloud
Tectonic Salesforce Customization
12Jul

Tectonic Salesforce Customization

Mastering Salesforce Customization with Tectonic As an official Salesforce Consulting Partner, Tectonic brings nearly two decades of experience in delivering Salesforce configuration and customization services. Our team includes over 80 Salesforce Certified Consultants dedicated to providing tailored solutions for nonprofits and membership associations. We specialize in customizing, configuring, and implementing Salesforce solutions to meet specific client needs. Our services range from configuring core functionality to expanding scope with AMS implementations like Fonteva, across various Salesforce clouds. The Benefits of Salesforce Customization Salesforce customization offers a more engaging, personalized user experience for your member community, customers, or partners and a more streamlined, profitable platform for your team. Salesforce Customization Services Leverage the full potential of Salesforce with Tectonic’s customization and configuration services. Our Salesforce Customizations and Configurations As an official Salesforce Consulting Partner, Tectonic has extensive experience delivering Salesforce configuration and customization services, supported by a team of Salesforce Certified Consultants. We work with nonprofits and membership associations to customize, configure, and implement Salesforce solutions tailored to their specific requirements. Our services include configuring core functionality, expanding scope with AMS implementations like Fonteva, and working with various Salesforce clouds: Our Workspace Salesforce is continually evolving, and so are we. Tectonic’s workspace is our R&D arena where we experiment with next-gen technologies and solutions to ensure our clients receive cutting-edge configurations. Tech Stack Integration Salesforce is the central hub of an entire ecosystem. We deploy proven AppExchange products to extend your Salesforce platform and integrate existing components of your tech stack into one holistic system. Device Optimization Experience design drives our Salesforce configurations. With the trend towards smart devices, we ensure your Salesforce platform delivers a seamless experience on any device. Code Review We maintain a strict code review process to ensure your Salesforce platform is robust and reliable, preventing breakdowns during critical processes like membership renewals or webinar bookings. Documentation With a highly configured Salesforce platform, documentation is essential. We maintain and deliver comprehensive documentation throughout the process, from gathering requirements to implementing your Salesforce solution. The Benefits of Salesforce Customization Drive Member Engagement Tailoring your Salesforce platform to your members makes it more intuitive and engaging. We configure custom elements like personalized Experience Cloud pages and registration flows that align new users with the right organization. Increase Revenue Salesforce customization enhances user experience, leading to improved sales and a stronger revenue pipeline. Features like visibility of cart abandonment, Stripe integration, and streamlined payment processing bolster revenue. Enable Greater Efficiency A customized platform doesn’t have to be complex. We help replace your legacy CRM and AMS, streamline essential processes, and simplify managing and updating the system. Tectonic’s Customization Projects For over a decade, we’ve helped nonprofits and membership organizations support their missions and engage their communities with Salesforce. Working with Tectonic Customizing Salesforce requires the right support. Tectonic is a trusted tech partner with deep platform expertise. We know when to use Salesforce flows or configure with code and can navigate common pitfalls. We follow best practices for developing Salesforce functionality and support IT teams through complex transitions or deliver proofs of concept to architecture review boards. Delivery and Integration Our standardized delivery model ensures efficient, consistent integration of new solutions based on our extensive experience. We guide you through building and transitioning to your new Salesforce platform while supporting ongoing growth and data management on your current CRM. Like Related Posts Salesforce OEM AppExchange Expanding its reach beyond CRM, Salesforce.com has launched a new service called AppExchange OEM Edition, aimed at non-CRM service providers. Read more The Salesforce Story In Marc Benioff’s own words How did salesforce.com grow from a start up in a rented apartment into the world’s Read more Salesforce Jigsaw Salesforce.com, a prominent figure in cloud computing, has finalized a deal to acquire Jigsaw, a wiki-style business contact database, for Read more Health Cloud Brings Healthcare Transformation Following swiftly after last week’s successful launch of Financial Services Cloud, Salesforce has announced the second installment in its series Read more

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July 12, 2022in Salesforce Managed Services

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