Customer Service Archives - gettectonic.com
agentforce digital workforce
13Feb

How Agentforce Works

Salesforce Agentforce: Everything You Need to Know Salesforce Agentforce represents a paradigm shift from generative AI to agentic AI—a new class of AI capable of autonomous action. Since its launch at Dreamforce in September 2024, Agentforce has redefined the conversation around AI, customer service, and experience management. To meet skyrocketing demand, Salesforce announced plans to hire more than 1,000 employees shortly after the launch. What is Salesforce Agentforce? Agentforce is a next-generation platform layer within the Salesforce ecosystem. While its bots leverage generative AI capabilities, they differ significantly from platforms like ChatGPT or Google Gemini. Agentforce bots are designed not just to generate responses but to act autonomously within predefined organizational guardrails. Unlike traditional chatbots, which follow scripted patterns, Agentforce AI agents are trained on proprietary data, enabling flexible and contextually accurate responses. They also integrate with Salesforce’s Data Cloud, enhancing their capacity to access and utilize customer data effectively. Agentforce combines three core tools—Agent Builder, Model Builder, and Prompt Builder—allowing businesses to create customized bots using low-code tools. Key Features of Agentforce The platform offers ready-to-deploy AI agents tailored for various industries, including: Agentforce officially became available on October 25, 2024, with pricing starting at $2 per conversation, and volume discounts offered for enterprise customers. Salesforce also launched the Agentforce Partner Network, enabling third-party integrations and custom agent designs for expanded functionality. How Agentforce Works Salesforce designed Agentforce for users without deep technical expertise in AI. As CEO Marc Benioff said, “This is AI for the rest of us.” The platform is powered by the upgraded Atlas Reasoning Engine, a component of Salesforce Einstein AI, which mimics human reasoning and planning. Like self-driving cars, Agentforce interprets real-time data to adapt its actions and operates autonomously within its established parameters. Enhanced Atlas Reasoning Engine In December 2024, Salesforce enhanced the Atlas Reasoning Engine with retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and advanced reasoning capabilities. These upgrades allow agents to: Seamless Integrations with Salesforce Tools Agentforce is deeply integrated with Salesforce’s ecosystem: Key Developments Agentforce Testing Center Launched in December 2024, the Testing Center allows businesses to test agents before deployment, ensuring they are accurate, fast, and aligned with organizational goals. Skill and Integration Library Salesforce introduced a pre-built library for CRM, Slack, Tableau, and MuleSoft integrations, simplifying agent customization. Examples include: Industry-Specific Expansion Agentforce for Retail Announced at the NRF conference in January 2025, this solution offers pre-built skills tailored to retail, such as: Additionally, Salesforce unveiled Retail Cloud with Modern POS, unifying online and offline inventory data. Notable Agentforce Customers Looking Ahead Marc Benioff calls Agentforce “the third wave of AI”, advancing beyond copilots into a new era of autonomous, low-hallucination intelligent agents. With its robust capabilities, Agentforce is positioned to transform how businesses interact with customers, automate workflows, and drive success. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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February 13, 2025in Agentforce Platform, Agentic AI, Data, Enterprise, Generative AI, Google, Mulesoft, Salesforce, Salesforce Einstein0 Comments
B2B Customer Service with Agentforce
12Feb

B2B Customer Service with Agentforce

Simplify and Transform B2B Customer Service with Agentforce B2B customer service is inherently complex. It involves managing layered relationships, high-value transactions, and specialized support needs—all of which require heightened attention to detail. With fewer but larger customers, the stakes are high. In fact, our research shows that 88% of customers are more likely to remain loyal with exceptional service, underscoring the importance of consistently delivering excellence. Enter Agentforce, an AI-powered solution designed to tackle these challenges. By complementing your service reps, Agentforce handles intricate B2B cases autonomously and within your predefined parameters. This ensures reliable 24/7 support for even the toughest queries, reducing rep burnout and enhancing customer satisfaction. Here’s how Agentforce can redefine B2B customer service and take it to the next level: What You’ll Learn What Is B2B Customer Service? B2B customer service focuses on providing personalized support and expertise to other businesses, addressing their unique needs and challenges. This service model aims to build lasting relationships by boosting loyalty, driving repeat business, and encouraging referrals. What Are AI Agents? AI agents like Agentforce are advanced systems capable of understanding and responding to customer inquiries without human involvement. Unlike basic chatbots, Agentforce uses natural language processing (NLP), machine learning, and contextual understanding to provide intelligent, conversational, and personalized support. At the heart of Agentforce is the Atlas Reasoning Engine, which simplifies complex queries, retrieves precise information from your Data Cloud, and creates accurate, reliable action plans—all within your company’s guardrails. Agentforce’s multi-modal understanding allows it to interpret inputs like text, images, and audio, making it a versatile tool for engaging customers. Crucially, Agentforce continuously learns and adapts, ensuring it evolves with your customers’ needs for more accurate, efficient support. Why AI Agents Are Ideal for B2B Customer Service B2B support often involves managing: Agentforce rises to these challenges by providing scalable, round-the-clock support that accommodates time zone differences, personalizes interactions, and resolves intricate inquiries with ease. Top Benefits of AI Agents in B2B Customer Service Use Cases for Agentforce in B2B Customer Service Challenges of Implementing AI Agents—and How to Solve Them 5 Best Practices for Success Ready to Elevate Your B2B Customer Service? Agentforce empowers your business to deliver consistent, reliable, and scalable support—around the clock. By handling complex interactions and reducing workload on service reps, it builds stronger customer relationships and positions your company for long-term success. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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February 12, 2025in Data, Salesforce0 Comments
AI and Related Tools Boost Holiday Sales
10Feb

AI and Related Tools Boost Holiday Sales

AI Drives Holiday Sales in 2024: A Record-Breaking Shopping Season with Rising Returns Artificial intelligence (AI) played a transformative role in shaping the 2024 holiday shopping season, with Salesforce reporting that AI-powered tools influenced $229 billion, or 19%, of global online sales. Based on data from 1.5 billion global shoppers and 1.6 trillion page views, AI tools such as product recommendations, targeted promotions, and customer service significantly boosted sales, marking a 6% year-over-year increase in engagement. Generative AI features, including conversational agents, saw a 25% surge in usage during the holiday period compared to earlier months, further highlighting their role in shaping consumer behavior. Mobile commerce amplified AI’s influence, with nearly 70% of global online sales being placed via smartphones. On Christmas Day alone, mobile orders accounted for 79% of transactions, showcasing the shift toward mobile-first shopping. “Retailers who have embraced AI and conversational agents are already reaping the benefits, but these tools will become even more critical in the new year as retailers aim to minimize revenue losses from returns and reengage with shoppers,” said Caila Schwartz, Salesforce’s Director of Consumer Insights. Record-Breaking Sales and Rising Returns Online sales hit .2 trillion globally and 2 billion in the U.S. during the holiday season, but returns surged to $122 billion globally—a 28% increase compared to 2023. Salesforce attributed this spike to evolving shopping habits like bracketing (buying multiple sizes to ensure fit) and try-on hauls (bulk purchasing for social media content), which have become increasingly common. The surge in returns presents a challenge to retailers, potentially eroding profit margins. To address this, many are turning to AI-powered solutions for streamlining returns processes. According to Salesforce, 75% of U.S. shoppers expressed interest in using AI agents for returns, with one-third showing strong enthusiasm for such tools. The Role of AI in Enhancing the Holiday Shopping Experience AI-powered chatbots saw a 42% year-over-year increase in usage during the holiday season, supporting customers with purchases, returns, and product inquiries. These conversational agents, combined with AI-driven loyalty programs and targeted promotions, were instrumental in engaging customers and increasing conversion rates. AI’s influence extended to social commerce, with platforms like TikTok Shop and Instagram driving 20% of global holiday sales. Personalized recommendations and advertisements, powered by AI algorithms, significantly boosted social media referral traffic, which grew by 8% year-over-year. Mobile Commerce and AI Synergy Mobile devices were the dominant force in holiday shopping, generating 2 billion in global online sales and 5 billion in the U.S. Orders placed via smartphones peaked on Christmas Day, with mobile accounting for 79% of all transactions. This mobile-first trend highlights the growing importance of integrating AI into mobile commerce to enhance the shopping experience. AI Integration Expands Across Retail Operations In the UK, retailers are increasingly leveraging AI to optimize operations and improve personalization. A study by IMRG and Scurri revealed that 57% of UK online retailers used generative AI for content creation in 2024, while 31% implemented AI-informed product search tools. By 2025, 75% of UK retailers plan to adopt AI for marketing efforts, and 42% aim to use AI-powered product information management systems to streamline processes. Tesco, for example, uses AI to analyze Clubcard data, enabling tailored product recommendations, healthier purchasing choices, and waste reduction. Meanwhile, Must Have Ideas, a homeware retailer, has launched an AI-driven TV shopping channel powered by proprietary software, Spark, which automates programming schedules based on real-time stock levels and market trends. Looking Ahead The 2024 holiday season underscored the transformative potential of AI in retail. While AI-powered tools drove record sales and engagement, the rise in returns presents a challenge that retailers must address to protect their bottom line. As AI continues to evolve, its role in shaping consumer behavior, streamlining operations, and enhancing customer experiences will become even more integral in the retail landscape. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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February 10, 2025in AI Tools, Artificial Intelligence, Data, Generative AI, Salesforce0 Comments
copilots and agentic ai
03Feb

Transforming Industries and Redefining Workflows

The Rise of Agentic AI: Transforming Industries and Redefining Workflows Artificial Intelligence (AI) is evolving faster than we anticipated. No longer limited to predicting outcomes or generating content, AI systems are now capable of handling complex tasks and making autonomous decisions. This new era—driven by Agentic AI—is set to redefine the workplace and transform industries. From Prediction to Autonomy: The Three Waves of AI To understand where we’re headed, it’s important to see how far AI has come. Arun Parameswaran, SVP & MD of Salesforce India, describes it as a fundamental shift: “What has changed with agents is their ability to handle complex reasoning… and, most importantly, to take action.” Unlike previous AI models that recommend or predict, Agentic AI executes tasks, reshaping customer experiences and operational workflows. Agentic AI in Action: Industry Applications At a recent Mint x Salesforce India deep-dive event on AI, industry leaders explored how Agentic AI is driving transformation across sectors. The panel featured: Here’s how Agentic AI is already making an impact: 1. Revolutionizing Customer Support Traditional chatbots have limited capabilities. Agentic AI, however, understands urgency and context. 2. Accelerating Business Decisions In finance and supply chain management, AI agents analyze vast amounts of data and execute decisions autonomously. 3. Transforming Travel & Aviation Airlines are leveraging AI to optimize booking systems, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency. 4. Automating Wealth Management AI agents in financial services monitor markets, adjust strategies, and offer personalized investment recommendations in real time. The Risks & Responsibilities of Agentic AI With great autonomy comes great responsibility. The potential of Agentic AI is vast—but so are the challenges: The Future of Work: AI as a Partner, Not a Replacement Despite concerns about job displacement, AI is more likely to reshape rather than replace roles. What Are AI Agents? AI agents go beyond traditional models like ChatGPT or Gemini. They are proactive, self-learning systems that: They fall into two categories: “AI agents don’t just wait for commands; they anticipate needs and act,” says Dr. Tomer Simon, Chief Scientist at Microsoft Research Israel. AI Agents in the Workplace: A Shift in Roles AI agents streamline processes, but they don’t eliminate the need for human oversight. Salesforce’s Agentforce is a prime example: “Companies need to integrate AI, not fear it. Those who fail to adopt AI tools risk drowning in tasks AI can handle,” warns Dr. Omri Allouche, Chief Scientist at Gong. The Road Ahead: AI-Driven Business Growth Agentic AI is not about replacing people—it’s about empowering them. As organizations re-evaluate workflows and embrace AI collaboration, the companies that act early will gain a competitive edge in efficiency and innovation. Final Thought The AI revolution is here, and Agentic AI is at its forefront. The key question isn’t whether AI will transform industries—it’s how organizations will adapt and thrive in this new era. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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February 3, 2025in Agentic AI, AI Tools, Artificial Intelligence, Data, Generative AI, Google, Laws, Salesforce, Technology0 Comments
AI Agents and Digital Transformation
30Jan

AI Agents Help Streamline Customer Service

AI Agents Help Fisher & Paykel Streamline Customer Service Through Expanded Salesforce Partnership Fisher & Paykel, the New Zealand-based luxury appliance manufacturer, is leveraging AI agents to automate customer service tasks, such as answering frequently asked questions and scheduling service appointments. This initiative is designed to free up employee time for more value-added tasks, enhancing the overall customer service experience. In collaboration with Salesforce, Fisher & Paykel is using autonomous agents that integrate seamlessly with its CRM system, providing agents with greater visibility into customers’ interaction histories. This enables more efficient, data-driven interactions and allows the company to proactively resolve issues, such as freezer temperature irregularities, by automatically notifying customers and helping them schedule necessary appointments. For instance, AI agents can diagnose appliance issues, alert the service team, and assist customers in scheduling repair appointments. These agents also support on-site technicians by providing critical information, such as appointment locations and appliance age, while offering helpful articles and generating post-service summaries. Additionally, the integration of AI agents will enhance collaboration with Fisher & Paykel’s retail, builder, and designer partners. These partners will benefit from more efficient access to inventory information, accurate quotes for multiple products, and streamlined order placement and tracking. Enhancing Automation-Ready Environments This initiative builds on existing capabilities from the partnership, combining AI, data, and CRM functions such as subscription management and consolidated customer engagement data. The results have been impressive: Fisher & Paykel saw a 206% increase in unique email opens and a 112% rise in unique clicks in 2023. They also reduced manual effort by 30 minutes per order and saved up to 3,300 hours through automation in the B2B side of their business, according to Salesforce. In addition to service automation, Fisher & Paykel is tapping into AI-driven automated journeys based on consumer buying signals and cloud-based customer service support that automates appointment confirmations. Rudi Khoury, Chief Digital Officer at Fisher & Paykel, emphasized that customer expectations for efficiency and personalized service align perfectly with the brand’s luxury offerings, highlighting the importance of AI in meeting these demands. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 30, 2025in Salesforce0 Comments
Agentforce for Retail
21Jan

Agentforce for Retail

Salesforce Introduces Agentforce for Retail: A Sector-Specific Skills Library for AI Innovation Salesforce has unveiled Agentforce for Retail, an industry-specific skills library designed to empower retailers to develop AI agents tailored to their unique business needs. This release provides tools for retailers to enhance customer service, assist store associates, and engage customers in innovative ways. For example, AI agents can now automate and streamline processes like order management, guided shopping, and appointment scheduling. While Salesforce had previously launched 100 preconfigured, industry-specific AI agents for the core Agentforce platform, this new retail-focused release represents a shift toward providing specialized tools that enable retailers to build AI agents with greater precision and flexibility. Driving Seamless, Unified Retail Experiences Nitin Mangtani, SVP & GM of Retail at Salesforce, described the vision behind Agentforce for Retail: “Salesforce is helping retailers deliver seamless, unified shopping experiences across both the physical and digital realms of retail, driving productivity advancements and business growth across their entire enterprise.” This move aligns with Salesforce’s broader commitment to delivering sector-specific AI innovations, expanding the Agentforce offering into targeted solutions that meet the distinct demands of industries like retail. Agentforce for Retail: Core Capabilities Commerce Skills for Order Management These skills empower retailers to offer self-service order support, helping reduce costs while boosting customer loyalty. Customers can: Commerce Skills for Guided Shopping Using natural language, customers can receive personalized product recommendations based on behavior, inventory, and operational data. They can also: Field Service Skills for Appointment Scheduling Service representatives can use AI-powered tools to streamline the scheduling of deliveries, installations, or consultations. Real-time availability updates improve efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction. Marketing Skills for Loyalty Promotion Creation Marketers can use conversational prompts informed by shopper data, point-of-sale (POS) insights, and segmentation to design loyalty campaigns. These tools also assist in creating personalized email content and subject lines to drive higher engagement. Retail Cloud with Modern POS: A Complementary Innovation In addition to Agentforce for Retail, Salesforce announced the Retail Cloud with Modern POS, a cloud-based point-of-sale solution designed to unify online and offline shopping experiences. Key features include: The POS system also incorporates AI capabilities such as: Shoppers benefit from flexible fulfillment options, including buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) and omni-exchanges. Each cart item can have unique fulfillment methods, optimizing supply chain costs while enhancing convenience. Mangtani noted, “Together, AI-fueled digital labor and a modern POS can unlock a new scale of operational capacity for retailers.” The Evolution of Agentforce: A Platform for Digital Labor In late 2024, Salesforce launched Agentforce 2.0, branding it as “The Digital Labor Platform.” This expanded version introduced enhanced capabilities aimed at helping businesses streamline operations and adopt AI-driven automation on a larger scale. Agentforce for Retail builds on this foundation, offering retailers the tools to reimagine customer engagement, boost efficiency, and drive business growth. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 21, 2025in Agentforce Platform, Data, Enterprise, Salesforce0 Comments
20Jan

Einstein Copilot No More

Salesforce Rebrands Einstein Copilot as Agentforce Salesforce has officially retired its Einstein Copilot feature, rebranding it as “Agentforce (Default).” While hints of this change surfaced earlier, with confirmation arriving in January 2025, many users were still surprised by the move. Ashish Agarwal, a Salesforce Architect, Consultant, and Trainer, highlighted the change in a LinkedIn post, noting that the conversational AI assistant had been integrated into Salesforce’s broader Agentforce platform. Salesforce’s release notes confirmed the update, stating there would be no changes to functionality but minor refinements to permissions, user interface elements, and help documentation. “In Setup, you’ll see Agentforce or Agentforce (Default) for the agent name and type. This change won’t impact your implementations,” Salesforce assured its users. The company reiterated that the tool remains a vital resource for assisting Salesforce users with daily business interactions. The Journey of Einstein Copilot Einstein Copilot, introduced in April 2024, was Salesforce’s flagship generative AI (GenAI) solution. Integrated into Salesforce applications, it allowed users to perform workflows and ask questions using natural language. Built on the Einstein 1 Platform, it leveraged Salesforce’s Data Cloud and metadata to deliver personalized experiences. Despite its relatively short lifespan, the update positions Einstein Copilot as a component of Agentforce, aligning it with Salesforce’s focus on AI agents. Moving Beyond the “Copilot” Label Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff’s critical remarks about Microsoft’s Copilot may offer clues to the rebranding decision. Over recent months, Benioff has labeled Microsoft’s Copilot as “repackaged ChatGPT” and “Clippy 2.0,” aiming to distinguish Salesforce’s offerings from its competitor. This shift also reflects Salesforce’s evolving AI strategy. The company’s “Four Waves of AI” framework identifies copilots as part of the second wave, now replaced by the third wave: autonomous AI agents. Agarwal encapsulated this shift in his LinkedIn post, stating: “In today’s Agentic world, you don’t need a Copilot to assist you. Agents are taking the controls themselves. They can pilot the plane, handle turbulence, and even serve the in-flight snacks—all while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.” Reactions and Reservations Despite Salesforce’s enthusiasm, the rebranding has drawn some skepticism. Richard Clark, Vice President of EMEA Alliances and Success at Elements.cloud, expressed surprise at the decision, citing Einstein Copilot’s unique role as an internal user agent. Agarwal also questioned the naming convention, arguing that “Agentforce” represents Salesforce’s entire AI platform, which includes components like the Prompt Builder, agents, and the Einstein Trust Layer. Assigning the name to a single agent, he suggested, could create unnecessary confusion. The Future of Agentforce Since its debut in October 2024, Agentforce has quickly evolved. The introduction of Agentforce 2.0, dubbed “The Digital Labor Platform,” has expanded its capabilities, allowing users to create and deploy autonomous AI agents. Salesforce has also tailored its offerings for specific industries. For example, Agentforce for Retail provides AI-driven solutions for customer service, guided shopping, order management, and appointment scheduling. Conclusion Salesforce Agentforce Details The transition from Einstein Copilot to Agentforce signifies Salesforce’s commitment to advancing its AI strategy. While some users may need time to adjust, the move aligns with the company’s vision of autonomous AI agents driving productivity and innovation. Whether viewed as a strategic pivot or a deliberate effort to distance itself from competitors, the rebranding underscores Salesforce’s ongoing evolution in the AI space. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 20, 2025in Agentforce Platform, Data, Einstein 1 Platform, Generative AI, Salesforce0 Comments
19Jan

Outsourced Salesforce Admin

Maximizing Business Potential with Outsourced Salesforce Admin Services Salesforce is an indispensable tool for managing customer relationships, streamlining operations, and driving growth. However, fully leveraging Salesforce’s capabilities requires skilled management, regular maintenance, and continuous updates. While some businesses prefer in-house management, outsourcing Salesforce admin services has emerged as a strategic option offering numerous advantages, including cost savings, access to specialized expertise, and improved system performance. This allows businesses to focus on core priorities. Key Benefits of Outsourcing Salesforce Admin Services 1. Access to Specialized Expertise Salesforce’s vast features and capabilities demand a deep understanding of its tools, integrations, and customizations. Outsourcing provides access to professionals with industry-specific expertise and up-to-date knowledge of Salesforce advancements. These experts ensure system optimization by implementing advanced features, automating workflows, and customizing dashboards, minimizing downtime, resolving issues efficiently, and improving overall system reliability. 2. Scalability and Flexibility Business needs evolve over time, and so do Salesforce requirements. Outsourced teams offer scalability and adaptability, making it easy to adjust services during periods of growth, mergers, system upgrades, or market expansion. This flexibility ensures businesses can meet their changing needs without disrupting operations. 3. Cost Efficiency and Resource Optimization Hiring and training in-house Salesforce administrators can be expensive. Outsourcing eliminates these costs by providing access to top-tier talent without the overhead of full-time employees. Moreover, outsourcing allows internal teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than day-to-day Salesforce management, maximizing productivity. 4. Enhanced Security and Compliance Protecting sensitive data and ensuring regulatory compliance is critical, especially in highly regulated industries. Outsourced Salesforce administrators bring extensive experience in implementing robust security measures, conducting regular audits, and mitigating vulnerabilities. Their proactive approach ensures data integrity and minimizes risks. 5. Improved Operational Efficiency Outsourcing ensures routine maintenance, performance monitoring, and data cleansing are consistently handled, reducing errors and improving system performance. Outsourced teams also use advanced tools to identify inefficiencies and recommend optimizations, creating streamlined workflows and resource utilization. 6. Quick Issue Resolution Experienced outsourced admins can diagnose and resolve technical issues promptly, minimizing disruptions. Their expertise and access to dedicated support channels ensure faster problem resolution, enabling businesses to maintain productivity and meet customer expectations. 7. Strategic Guidance and Insights Beyond daily management, outsourced professionals provide valuable strategic insights based on their cross-industry experience. From identifying automation opportunities to recommending data-driven strategies, they help businesses leverage Salesforce to achieve long-term objectives and foster innovation. 8. Tailored Customization and Integration Salesforce’s customization potential is vast, but it requires expertise to align the system with business goals effectively. Outsourcing ensures seamless integration and customization, whether through unique workflows, custom applications, or third-party tools. This tailored approach maximizes ROI and ensures Salesforce evolves with the organization. 9. Continuity Despite Employee Turnover Employee turnover in in-house teams can disrupt Salesforce management. Outsourced providers ensure continuity through established processes and teams, minimizing downtime and reducing the burden on internal staff. 10. Focus on Core Competencies Outsourcing Salesforce management allows internal teams to focus on innovation, market expansion, and customer service, while experts handle Salesforce’s complexities. This alignment of resources drives long-term success. 11. Access to Advanced Tools and Technologies Outsourced teams leverage advanced tools for data accuracy, performance insights, and productivity enhancements. These technologies improve system usability and allow businesses to stay competitive. 12. Knowledge Updates and Ongoing Training Salesforce evolves continuously, requiring admins to stay updated with new features and industry trends. Outsourced professionals invest in ongoing training and certifications, ensuring businesses benefit from the latest advancements without dedicating internal resources to training. 13. Time-Zone Benefits and 24/7 Support For global businesses, outsourced teams provide round-the-clock support to address technical issues promptly, regardless of time zones. Maintenance tasks can also be scheduled during non-business hours, minimizing disruptions and enhancing efficiency. Conclusion Outsourcing Salesforce admin services is a strategic investment for businesses aiming to enhance performance, drive growth, and streamline operations. By leveraging the expertise of skilled professionals, businesses can benefit from seamless system management, tailored customizations, and proactive support while reducing costs and resource demands. For organizations seeking to stay competitive in today’s dynamicmarketplace, outsourcing Salesforce admin services is not just a convenience but a strategic move toward achieving long-term success. By leaving Salesforce management to the experts, businesses can focus on their core goals and drive innovation. Contact Tectonic Today. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 19, 2025in Data, Salesforce0 Comments
AI Agent Rivalry
19Jan

Generative AI in CX

Generative AI in CX: Opportunities and Challenges Generative AI offers the promise of transformative efficiency and innovation in customer experience (CX). However, businesses face significant hurdles in adopting the technology, including budget constraints, compliance challenges, and internal alignment issues. A Growing Gap Between Innovation and AdoptionCX technology vendors often outpace their customers in releasing advanced features. With generative AI, this gap feels wider than ever. For example, Zendesk’s CX Trends 2025 report revealed that over 25% of surveyed businesses have delayed AI adoption due to budgetary, knowledge, or organizational support barriers. Similarly, an October survey by NTT Data found that more than half of senior IT decision-makers had yet to align generative AI strategies with business goals. While only 39% of respondents reported significant investments in generative AI, most companies remain in early phases, such as pilots and trials. Some businesses, however, have no plans to invest at all. Early Adoption in CXDespite these challenges, early adopters are exploring generative AI applications in customer service and contact centers. AI-powered bots, or “agents,” are proving effective in summarizing answers and improving efficiency. However, deploying these agents requires substantial preparation, such as organizing customer data and defining roles and processes—a significant task for many IT teams. John Seeds, CMO at TTEC Digital, emphasized the importance of using generative AI internally first:“We start by addressing inconsistencies and cleaning up data. Once that’s done, businesses can present it effectively to reduce inbound calls and enhance self-service in contact centers.” Expanding Beyond Customer ServiceGenerative AI is also being embraced by marketing and e-commerce teams. Platforms like Salesforce, Google, and Sitecore have introduced tools that assist with campaign ideation and content creation. While these tools don’t always produce polished outputs, they serve as powerful starting points for creatives. The Generative AI RevolutionAI has been a staple in CX for years, powering analytics, natural language processing, and automation. But the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in late 2022 revolutionized the field. John Ball, SVP at ServiceNow, noted:“Generative AI has removed the need for handcrafting every dialogue or intent model. It opens up possibilities for chat and email recommendations without requiring as much manual setup.” Similarly, Salesforce AI executives, including Silvio Savarese, highlighted the technology’s unprecedented adoption:“It was incredible to see how quickly generative AI captured global attention,” Savarese said. Questions of Autonomy and TrustThe rise of AI agents introduces questions about trust and autonomy. Can bots make decisions that keep customers happy? What happens if they make mistakes? As companies explore these possibilities, many are focusing on augmenting human workflows rather than replacing them entirely. For example, Trimedx plans to use ServiceNow’s generative AI to automate report generation for its clinical hardware in hospitals. This application aims to save time while supporting human decision-making. Similarly, Siemens has deployed its own AI “bionic agent” to handle tasks like supply chain management, with generative AI accelerating customization and productivity. Regulatory and Ethical ConsiderationsAs adoption grows, so do concerns around compliance and copyright. The Biden administration’s recent CX-related regulations, including a ban on junk fees, could influence how AI is integrated into business processes. Additionally, initiatives like Adobe’s Content Authenticity Initiative aim to ensure transparency in AI-generated content by providing tools to verify the origins and editing history of digital assets. The Road AheadGenerative AI holds immense potential to transform CX by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and driving innovation. However, businesses must address challenges in data readiness, compliance, and ethical usage to fully realize its benefits. While early adopters are making strides, widespread success will depend on thoughtful implementation and alignment with organizational goals. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 19, 2025in Data, Generative AI, Google, Salesforce, Technology0 Comments
computer hackers in a genai desert
19Jan

How Hackers Exploit GenAI

Hackers are increasingly leveraging generative AI (GenAI) to execute sophisticated cyberattacks, with real-world incidents highlighting its growing role in cybercrime. In early 2024, fraudsters used a deepfake of a multinational firm’s CFO to trick a finance employee into transferring $25 million—a stark example of how GenAI is reshaping cyber threats. Experts warn this is just the beginning. Here’s how cybercriminals are using GenAI to their advantage: 1. Crafting Advanced Phishing & Social Engineering Attacks GenAI-powered tools like ChatGPT enable hackers to generate professional-grade phishing emails that closely mimic corporate communications. These emails, now nearly flawless in grammar and formatting, are far more convincing to targets. Additionally, GenAI can: 2. Writing & Enhancing Malicious Code Just as developers use GenAI to accelerate coding, cybercriminals use it to: This automation fuels a rise in zero-day attacks, where vulnerabilities are exploited before developers can patch them. 3. Identifying Vulnerabilities at Scale GenAI accelerates the discovery of security weaknesses by: With GenAI, cybercriminals can scale and refine their tactics faster than ever. 4. Automating Target Research & Attack Planning Hackers use GenAI to: While mainstream AI tools have built-in safeguards, threat actors find ways to bypass them, using alternative AI models or dark web resources. 5. Lowering the Barrier to Cybercrime GenAI democratizes cyberattacks by: This increased accessibility means more people—beyond seasoned cybercriminals—can launch effective cyberattacks. The Hidden Risk: AI-Powered Coding in Enterprises The security risk of GenAI isn’t limited to adversarial use. Businesses adopting AI-powered coding tools may unintentionally introduce vulnerabilities into their systems. Joseph Nwankpa, director of cybersecurity initiatives at Miami University’s Farmer School of Business, warns: The Takeaway While GenAI offers groundbreaking advancements, it also amplifies cyber threats. Organizations must remain vigilant—investing in AI security measures, strengthening human oversight, and educating employees to counter AI-powered attacks. The race between AI-driven innovation and cybercrime is just getting started. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 19, 2025in AI Tools, Enterprise, Generative AI, Laws0 Comments

Service Cloud or Sales Cloud for Service

4 Reasons to Use Salesforce Service Cloud Over Sales Cloud’s Standard Case Functionality When businesses aim to elevate their customer support operations, Salesforce is often their platform of choice. While Sales Cloud and Service Cloud both help manage customer interactions, their core purposes differ. Sales Cloud focuses on managing the sales pipeline, whereas Service Cloud is specifically designed to optimize customer service and support processes. Here are four compelling reasons to choose Service Cloud for your customer support needs. 1. Advanced Case Management Features Service Cloud offers robust tools to manage customer cases with efficiency, far surpassing the basic case functionality available in Sales Cloud. Key Service Cloud Features: While Sales Cloud does support basic case management, it lacks these advanced features. Attempting to replicate them in Sales Cloud often requires extensive customization and development. 2. Omni-Channel Support for Seamless Customer Communication Modern customer service spans multiple channels, including chat, email, phone, and social media. Service Cloud provides powerful omni-channel capabilities to unify communication across all these touchpoints—something Sales Cloud does not offer. Key Service Cloud Features: Sales Cloud’s functionality centers on sales processes, leaving it without native support for omni-channel routing or social media integrations for customer support. 3. Knowledge Base for Self-Service and Agent Efficiency Service Cloud enables organizations to build and maintain a knowledge base, empowering both customers and agents with quick access to solutions. Key Service Cloud Features: Sales Cloud does not include tools for creating a knowledge base, self-service portals, or case deflection, as it is designed primarily for sales teams. 4. Entitlements and Service Contracts for Enhanced Customer Support Service Cloud provides specialized tools for managing entitlements and service contracts, ensuring customers receive the level of support they’re entitled to. Key Service Cloud Features: Sales Cloud does not offer dedicated features for managing entitlements or service contracts, limiting its utility for businesses focused on structured customer support. Why Service Cloud is the Better Choice for Customer Support While Sales Cloud is a powerful tool for managing sales pipelines, it falls short in addressing the complex needs of modern customer support. Service Cloud provides: If your priority is delivering exceptional customer support and enhancing customer satisfaction, Service Cloud is the clear choice. With its comprehensive features, your support team will be empowered to work more efficiently, resolve issues faster, and provide outstanding service across all channels. Invest in Service Cloud to transform your support operations and create seamless, satisfying experiences for your customers. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 6, 2025in Salesforce, Salesforce Service Cloud0 Comments
Tectonic Salesforce Customization
05Jan

Maximizing Salesforce Customizations

Data Goldmine: Maximizing Salesforce Customizations to Supercharge Contact Center Efficiency In the fast-paced realm of customer relationship management (CRM), Salesforce has become an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to optimize customer interactions and streamline operations. Despite its widespread use, many organizations barely scratch the surface of its customization potential. The issue isn’t a lack of tools but rather the underutilization of powerful resources like Apex code—a hidden goldmine that can significantly elevate contact center performance. Unlocking Potential with Apex Customizations Salesforce’s Apex code empowers businesses to craft tailored solutions that meet unique operational needs. However, these customizations often remain static, failing to evolve alongside changing business requirements. By revisiting and repurposing existing Apex code, businesses can unlock advanced features and innovative applications that go beyond their original scope. Here are a few ways Apex customizations can transform your contact center: 1. Intelligent Task Routing Picture a contact center where customer inquiries are dynamically routed to the most qualified agents based on expertise, availability, and historical performance. With Apex, businesses can design systems that enable intelligent task assignment. This improves operational efficiency while boosting customer satisfaction, ensuring every inquiry is resolved by the right person at the right time. 2. Proactive Workload Optimization Workload imbalances can lead to agent burnout and reduced service quality. By analyzing Salesforce data, businesses can develop Apex-driven algorithms to optimize workload distribution. These systems identify interaction trends and allocate tasks in real time, ensuring that no agent is overburdened. The result? A healthier, more productive team and consistently superior customer service. 3. AI-Augmented Decision-Making AI integration with Salesforce customizations is reshaping customer support. By leveraging AI-driven insights, businesses can equip agents with real-time recommendations, allowing for more personalized, informed interactions. These tools not only enhance the customer experience but also empower agents to make faster, smarter decisions. Taking Action: Steps to Unleash Your CRM’s Full Potential To harness the full power of Salesforce customizations, consider these actionable steps: Looking Ahead: Preparing for Next-Gen Customer Support The future of customer support is driven by data, AI, and personalized experiences. Salesforce customizations can help businesses stay ahead by enabling cutting-edge capabilities like multilingual support, visual troubleshooting, and advanced interactive features. By revisiting your existing customizations and aligning them with emerging trends, you can not only enhance customer satisfaction but also set your organization apart in a competitive marketplace. Salesforce isn’t just a CRM—it’s a platform for building next-generation customer service. A Call to Action: Unlock the Potential of Your Salesforce Ecosystem Are you ready to explore how your Salesforce customizations can revolutionize customer service? The potential is vast, and the rewards are significant. Let’s discuss how to harness the full power of your CRM to drive smarter workflows and enhance your contact center’s efficiency. Take a closer look at your existing customizations—they may hold the key to the innovation and success you’ve been seeking. By embracing Salesforce’s full potential, you can create a future-ready customer support ecosystem that works harder for your business. 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 5, 2025in Data, Salesforce Development Services, Salesforce Implementation Services, Salesforce Optimization0 Comments
Agentic AI is Here
02Jan

Agentic AI Revolution

The Agentic AI Revolution: Lead, Follow, or Get Out of the Way The era of agentic AI is here, and the message is clear—if you’re not leading the charge, you’re falling behind. Companies like Wiley and OpenTable are reshaping their industries with autonomous AI agents that don’t just assist but also analyze, strategize, and execute tasks with unparalleled efficiency. As these organizations demonstrate, the key to AI success lies in rewriting the rules of your industry rather than playing catch-up. Rewriting Industry Standards with Agentic AI Wiley: The education giant leveraged Agentforce, a digital labor platform for deploying autonomous AI agents, to transform its customer service operations. By onboarding representatives 50% faster and improving case resolution by 40%, Wiley streamlined its processes in just a few weeks. AI agents now handle registration and payment inquiries, directing students to resources and reducing the workload on human representatives. OpenTable: As the go-to reservation platform for 1.7 billion diners annually, OpenTable deploys AI agents to manage reservation changes and loyalty points. This allows employees to focus on customer relationships. Even a two-minute efficiency gain per interaction translates to massive operational savings. Salesforce Help Site: With over 60 million annual visits, the Salesforce Help site integrated Agentforce to resolve 83% of queries without human involvement. In just weeks, Agentforce doubled its capacity, handling over 32,000 automated conversations. These examples showcase a new era of digital labor where AI agents orchestrate high-value, multistep tasks, working tirelessly to deliver results. Far from replacing humans, they supercharge productivity and innovation, enabling companies to do more than ever before. How to Empower Your Workforce with AI Empowering your workforce for the next wave of AI doesn’t require months of preparation or millions of dollars. You don’t need to build or train your own large language model (LLM). Instead, integrating AI with existing data, automation, and workflows is the key to success, as demonstrated by leaders like Wiley and OpenTable. Here’s how to get started: 1. Real-Time Data Access AI thrives on real-time, high-quality data. Platforms like Salesforce Data Cloud unify structured and unstructured data, connecting it seamlessly to the LLM. Techniques such as retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and semantic search ensure AI agents can access the most relevant data for any task. 2. Advanced Reasoning AI agents aren’t just about answering queries—they execute complex, multistep tasks. For example, they can process returns, reorder items, and even flag anomalies. Powered by reasoning engines, these agents draw data from systems like CRM, refine plans, and adapt dynamically until the task is completed correctly. 3. Built-In Security AI agents must operate within clear guardrails, knowing their limits and handing tasks off to humans when necessary. Strong permissions and security protocols are essential to ensure data protection and prevent unauthorized actions. 4. Action-Oriented Workflows Generative AI’s real value lies in action. By integrating tools like Salesforce Flow for task automation and MuleSoft APIs for system connectivity, AI agents can execute business workflows such as fraud detection, customer outreach, and case management. 5. Human-AI Collaboration The future of work isn’t AI replacing humans—it’s AI and humans working together. While agents handle data-intensive and repetitive tasks, humans bring strategic thinking, empathy, and creativity. This synergy leads to smarter decisions and redefines workflows across industries. Why Training Your Own LLM May Not Be the Answer Many companies assume training a proprietary LLM will give them a competitive edge. In reality, this process is costly, time-intensive, and requires constant updates to remain accurate. An LLM trained on static data quickly becomes outdated, much like a GPS that fails after the first detour. Instead, companies are turning to out-of-the-box AI solutions that integrate seamlessly with their existing systems. These tools offer the flexibility to scale quickly and adapt in real time, enabling businesses to stay competitive without the heavy lift of building from scratch. Scaling AI for the Future Many organizations remain stuck in pilot phases with AI due to data quality issues and a limited understanding of use cases. Companies like Wiley and OpenTable, however, have cracked the code: integrating prebuilt AI systems with robust data flows, automation, and workflows. By embracing agentic AI, forward-thinking organizations are creating digital labor forces that unlock new efficiencies, enhance customer experiences, and position themselves for long-term success. The trillion-dollar AI opportunity awaits—will you lead or trail behind? 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 Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Salesforce Enhances Service Cloud with AI-Driven Intelligence Engine Data science and analytics are rapidly becoming standard features in enterprise applications, Read more

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January 2, 2025in Agentforce Platform, Agentic AI, Data, Generative AI, Mulesoft, Salesforce, Salesforce Data Cloud, Salesforce Flow

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