SALESFORCE API DEPRECATION
From Salesforce single sign-on (SSO) to Salesforce release management, Salesforce data backup and recovery, and Salesforce security solutions, enterprises must leverage the best-in-class Salesforce architecture to maximize their efficiency and security. But when Salesforce announces plans to deprecate an API, the onset of anxiety causes administrators and developers to question which updates and enhancements must be implemented and how these changes may impact their product or service. The decision to deprecate an application programming interface (API) can be difficult for organizations to understand for a plethora of reasons. Senior Salesforce staff and developers are challenged to determine which system tools, integrations, programs, interfaces, and services will be impacted – and how those impacts will be managed. Salesforce APIs are essentially programming building blocks used to create applications. Their functionality serves multiple purposes, ranging from exposing features and data to creating controls that allow developers to easily adjust or customize their applications. However, as Salesforce systems evolve, their need for faster, more efficient APIs continues to increase – offering continuous value and gains to customers. When an API is deprecated, the process often results in the removal of that resource from Salesforce systems. If no alternative solution exists, an administrator must seek alternative resources to satisfy the need. From a technical standpoint, Salesforce recommends utilizing application programming interface versioning to simplify the planning, testing, and deployment stages. Keeping the system up-to-date allows administrators to quickly transition to the newest version of an API. This often requires migrating existing code to the new code before the old version is completely deprecated. Furthermore, it is critical to ensure the existence of a documented rollback plan to avoid disruption in business operations should there be any incompatibility issues with the new version of the API. It is also wise for administrators to review their Salesforce applications for any API activity that may be impacted by the deprecation. Having a sudden disruption of an API can lead to an unexpected decrease in production or revenue, which can be damaging to the overall business. Staying on top of API deprecation schedules, utilizing API versioning, and validating any impacted API risks will ensure that your Salesforce system is up-to-date, secure, and operating at optimal levels. When Salesforce releases important product and service enhancements, it is critical that administrators and users take the time to fully understand how any changes may impact their system. By identifying any risks associated with deprecation and implementing strategies to proactively manage the transition, your organization will be positioned to maximize its efficiency and security.
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