Flow Builder, commonly referred to as Lightning Flow or Flow, allows users to build complex automations without having to write any code. It is a useful tool for admins interested in automating routine tasks or creating a guided visual experience for business processes that require input from users. In this post we will cover some Flow basics and best practices, discuss upcoming enhancements in the Winter ’20 Release and provide additional resources.
The Basics
Flow is a business automation application available in Classic and Lightning Experience. It can be used to collect data from users and take logic-based actions on Salesforce records. In addition to creating and updating records, Flow provides advanced functionality that other Salesforce automation tools are unable to provide. This includes deleting records, searching for existing records, and taking actions based on the results.
There are two types of Flows: Screen Flows and Autolaunched Flows. Screen Flows collect information from users through screens, much like a form, and then use that data to take actions. Autolaunched Flows are triggered by another event (such as an action on a Process Builder) and can be used to automate repetitive tasks including creating multiple related records simultaneously.
Flow Builder Best Practices
Salesforce offers more than one automation tool. Understanding the differences between them, specifically Flow Builder and Process Builder, is important for admins interested in leveraging automation. For a detailed description and sample scenarios of each tool refer to Trailhead’s Choosing the Right Automation Tool.
Flow Builder is the point-and-click tool for creating flows. It works on logic and is comprised of elements, connectors and resources that automate a business process. Building flows can be complex and it is recommended that users go through the flow incrementally, one decision node at a time. When going through each decision consider what data will be needed later on. And, remember there is always the ability to go back and include additional steps.
Winter ’20 Release
Salesforce has several enhancements scheduled for Flow in the Winter ’20 Release. A few highlights are:
- Start a flow on a schedule. Autolaunched flows can be scheduled to start on a particular date and time and set to a frequency (once, daily, weekly). Objects and filters can also be selected so that flows only run for a specific set of records.
- Conditional visibility on flow screens. Save user’s time by only showing them fields they need using conditional logic. If there is no defined filter or screen component the flow screen will appear as usual. If it is defined the component is hidden until the criteria are met.
- Send custom notifications with Flow Builder. Reach users when an important event occurs. This function is fully supported in Process Builder and is now available in Flow Builder as well.
- Include lookup fields on flow screens. Allow users to search for an existing Salesforce record on a flow screen, just as they would when editing a lookup field on a record.
View all of the Winter ’20 Release notes on Flow Builder for a full list of enhancements.
NOTE: These enhancements are scheduled for the Winter ’20 release, but features can occasionally be postponed for later releases at Salesforce’s discretion.