How to Build Custom Salesforce Apps Without Coding: A Step-by-Step Guide
The global low-code platform market is projected to reach $65 billion by 2025. It’s expected that citizen developers can be successful in accelerating the application development process by 50%. No wonder businesses worldwide are looking to reap the advantages of low-code and no-code development.
Even expert developers utilize low-code and no-code solutions if a project’s needs dictate it. The Synebo team is well-versed in all Salesforce app development approaches, including low-code and no-code development.
In this post, you’ll discover key differences between no and low-code development approaches, discover key advantages of using them instead of conventional development, and discover how to build a Salesforce app without coding.
Understanding the Difference between No-Code and Low-Code Development
First, let’s delve into the key concepts related to the topic to obtain a full picture:
What is No-Code Development?
No-code development is a software development approach that enables users to create applications and automate processes without writing any code.
No-code development leverages visual interfaces, drag-and-drop tools, and pre-built templates to facilitate the creation of complex applications by non-programmers. Here are some of the key characteristics of no-code development:
- Visual development interface
- Drag-and-drop functionality
- Pre-built templates and components
- Integration capabilities
- Accessibility for non-programmers
- Rapid prototyping and iteration
- Scalability
The target audience of no-code solutions includes:
- Business professionals
- Entrepreneurs and startups
- Citizen developers
- IT and dev teams
- Educators and students
You may have heard about such no-code development platforms and applications as Bubble, Airtable, Zapier, Wix, AppSheet, Webflow.
What is Low-Code Development?
Low-code development is a software development approach that allows users to create applications with minimal hand-coding.
Low-code development of the Salesforce custom app combines visual development tools, drag-and-drop components, and pre-built modules with the ability to add custom code when necessary. This approach accelerates the development process and enables users with varying technical skills to participate in application creation.
Here are some of the key characteristics of low-code development:
- Visual development interface
- Drag-and-drop components
- Pre-built modules and templates
- Custom coding capabilities
- Integration capabilities
- Collaboration and version control system
Here are the differences between no-code and low-code solutions
#1 Target audience:
- No-code: Non-developers or “citizen developers” with no programming knowledge.
- Low-code: Both professional developers and technically savvy non-developers.
#2 Complexity:
- No-code: Best for simpler applications, workflows, and automation tasks.
- Low-code: Suitable for more complex and scalable applications requiring intricate logic and integrations.
#3 Customization:
- No-code: Limited to functionalities provided by visual tools and pre-built components.
- Low-code: Greater flexibility with the ability to write custom code for advanced features and fine-tuned customizations.
Compared to no-code, low-code tools for Salesforce custom apps offer extensive flexibility and customization through custom code integration, advanced logic workflows, API integrations, and custom UI/UX design, enabling the creation of complex, tailored applications.
Looking for a trusted provider of Salesforce app development services? Reach out to Synebo, and let’s discuss.
Advantages of Building Custom Salesforce Apps Without Coding
Now, let’s move to the review of concrete advantages of opting for Salesforce custom app development without coding:
Faster Development Time
No-code and low-code tools provide visual interfaces and pre-built components. These features are exactly what allow for streamlined development, as using ready-made elements is always faster than creating them from scratch. Here are some tasks that can be automated with low and no-code tools:
- Custom workflows
- Automated data entry
- Dashboard setup
Basically, low-code Salesforce custom app development is extremely convenient for rapid prototyping and deployment.
Cost-Effectiveness
Reducing the need for specialized coding skills lowers development costs. By enabling non-technical staff to participate in app development, businesses can save on the high costs associated with hiring professional developers. Here are some ways low-code tools contribute to cost-effectiveness:
- Less reliance on expensive developers
- Minimized time and resources required for application development
- Decreased overall IT expenses
So, low and no-code development reduces financial overhead and allows businesses to allocate their budgets more effectively.
Empowering Non-Technical Users
These tools enable business users to create and modify applications without needing extensive technical knowledge. This empowerment leads to faster iterations and better alignment with business needs. Here are some examples of how non-technical users benefit from low-code and no-code software:
- Sales managers building custom reporting dashboards
- Marketing teams automating campaign workflows
- HR departments creating employee onboarding processes
- Finance teams streamlining budget approvals
From this perspective, low and no-code development allows non-technical users to take control of their processes, leading to increased productivity and innovation.
Looking for a trusted provider to handle custom AppExchange development for your business? Reach out to Synebo, and let’s discuss.
Key No-Code and Low-Code Tools for Salesforce to Consider
Salesforce, a leading CRM platform, offers a range of low-code and no-code development instruments. Here are some of them the Synebo team can recommend using:
Salesforce App Builder
Salesforce App Builder is a tool designed to create custom applications without writing code. It offers a drag-and-drop interface, making it accessible even to those with no technical background.
Key features of Salesforce App Builder:
- Drag-and-drop interface: Add and arrange components on the app layout.
- Custom components: Use pre-built components or create custom ones using Lightning Components.
- Responsive design: Build apps that work on desktop and mobile devices.
- Integration capabilities: Connect with other Salesforce services and third-party applications.
Here’s a simple step-by-step flow for using Salesforce App Builder to create custom apps:
- Access App Builder: Navigate to the Salesforce Setup area, search for “App Builder” in the Quick Find box, and select “Lightning App Builder.”
- Create a New App: Click on “New” to start a new Lightning App and choose the type of app (App Page, Home Page, Record Page) you want to create.
- Add Components: Drag and drop components (e.g., fields, buttons, lists) from the sidebar onto your app layout and configure component properties to suit your needs.
- Customize Layout: Arrange and resize components to create a user-friendly interface and use templates to ensure a consistent look and feel across your app.
- Preview and Activate: Preview your app to ensure it looks and functions as expected, and then click “Activate” to make your app available to users.
Salesforce Flow (Flow Builder)
Salesforce Flow (or Flow Builder) is a tool for automating complex business processes without coding. It allows users to create workflows that can execute a series of actions, such as updating records, sending emails, or integrating with external systems.
Key features of Salesforce Flow:
- Visual Workflow Design: Create flows using a visual interface with drag-and-drop elements.
- Automation: Automate repetitive tasks and complex business logic.
- Data manipulation: Read, write, and update Salesforce data as part of the flow.
- Integration: Connect with external systems through API calls and other integrations.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for using Salesforce Flow to set up a basic flow:
- Access Flow Builder: Go to the Salesforce Setup area, search for “Flows” in the Quick Find box, and select “Flows.”
- Create a new flow: Click “New Flow” and choose the flow type (e.g., Screen Flow, Autolaunched Flow).
- Design the flow: Drag and drop elements (e.g., screens, decisions, actions) onto the canvas and connect the elements to define the flow’s logic and sequence.
- Configure elements: Set properties and inputs for each element and use formulas and variables to manipulate data within the flow.
- Test and activate: Test your flow to ensure it works correctly and then activate the flow to make it available for use.
Third-Party No-Code Platforms
Several popular third-party no-code platforms integrate seamlessly with Salesforce, enhancing its functionality and providing additional flexibility. Here are some notable platforms:
- Zapier: Automates workflows between Salesforce and other applications.
- Airtable: Combines the functionality of a database with an intuitive interface for managing data and workflows.
- MuleSoft: Facilitates integration between Salesforce and other systems with an API management platform.
Benefits of third-party no-code platforms:
- Extend capabilities
- Automate workflows
- User-friendly
- Broad support
Limitations of third-party no-code platforms:
- Additional costs
- Service dependency
- Integration complexity
- Data security
Looking for Salesforce implementation services? Reach out to Synebo and let’s discuss.
Key No-Code and Low-Code Tools for Salesforce to Consider
Salesforce, a leading CRM platform, offers a range of low-code and no-code development instruments. Here are some of them the Synebo team can recommend using:
Salesforce App Builder
Salesforce App Builder is a tool designed to create custom applications without writing code. It offers a drag-and-drop interface, making it accessible even to those with no technical background.
Key features of Salesforce App Builder:
- Drag-and-drop interface: Add and arrange components on the app layout.
- Custom components: Use pre-built components or create custom ones using Lightning Components.
- Responsive design: Build apps that work on desktop and mobile devices.
- Integration capabilities: Connect with other Salesforce services and third-party applications.
Here’s a simple step-by-step flow for using Salesforce App Builder to create custom apps:
- Access App Builder: Navigate to the Salesforce Setup area, search for “App Builder” in the Quick Find box, and select “Lightning App Builder.”
- Create a New App: Click on “New” to start a new Lightning App and choose the type of app (App Page, Home Page, Record Page) you want to create.
- Add Components: Drag and drop components (e.g., fields, buttons, lists) from the sidebar onto your app layout and configure component properties to suit your needs.
- Customize Layout: Arrange and resize components to create a user-friendly interface and use templates to ensure a consistent look and feel across your app.
- Preview and Activate: Preview your app to ensure it looks and functions as expected, and then click “Activate” to make your app available to users.
Salesforce Flow (Flow Builder)
Salesforce Flow (or Flow Builder) is a tool for automating complex business processes without coding. It allows users to create workflows that can execute a series of actions, such as updating records, sending emails, or integrating with external systems.
Key features of Salesforce Flow:
- Visual Workflow Design: Create flows using a visual interface with drag-and-drop elements.
- Automation: Automate repetitive tasks and complex business logic.
- Data manipulation: Read, write, and update Salesforce data as part of the flow.
- Integration: Connect with external systems through API calls and other integrations.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for using Salesforce Flow to set up a basic flow:
- Access Flow Builder: Go to the Salesforce Setup area, search for “Flows” in the Quick Find box, and select “Flows.”
- Create a new flow: Click “New Flow” and choose the flow type (e.g., Screen Flow, Autolaunched Flow).
- Design the flow: Drag and drop elements (e.g., screens, decisions, actions) onto the canvas and connect the elements to define the flow’s logic and sequence.
- Configure elements: Set properties and inputs for each element and use formulas and variables to manipulate data within the flow.
- Test and activate: Test your flow to ensure it works correctly and then activate the flow to make it available for use.
Third-Party No-Code Platforms
Several popular third-party no-code platforms integrate seamlessly with Salesforce, enhancing its functionality and providing additional flexibility. Here are some notable platforms:
- Zapier: Automates workflows between Salesforce and other applications.
- Airtable: Combines the functionality of a database with an intuitive interface for managing data and workflows.
- MuleSoft: Facilitates integration between Salesforce and other systems with an API management platform.
Benefits of third-party no-code platforms:
- Extend capabilities
- Automate workflows
- User-friendly
- Broad support
Limitations of third-party no-code platforms:
- Additional costs
- Service dependency
- Integration complexity
- Data security
Looking for Salesforce implementation services? Reach out to Synebo and let’s discuss.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Custom Salesforce App Without Coding
Synebo, as a trusted Salesforce development agency and a licensed Salesforce partner, has substantial expertise in delivering low and no-code development projects. Let’s have an insight into a regular step-by-step flow for approaching such projects:
Step 1: Identifying Business Requirements
Every project starts with gathering business requirements. It allows to form the initial scope of work, provide rough estimates, select best-fit specialists for the project, and many more. All to ensure that the intended app aligns with organizational goals and solves the outlined problems.
Here are some of the questions that Synebo team members may ask as part of the initial project discussion:
- What is the primary purpose of the app?
- Who will be the primary users of the app?
- What business processes need to be automated?
- What data needs to be captured and tracked?
- What reports or dashboards are required?
- Is any specific integration with other systems needed?
The exact questions to ask are tailored to a particular customer’s request and need. It’s also worth mentioning that those are just basic-level questions, and creating a project plan will require discussing many more detailed aspects.
Step 2: Planning the App Structure
Planning for the app’s data model and user interface is the next step in the development process. It’s basically the same phase as planning for features to implement and tech stack in a regular software development.
Here are tips on organizing fields, objects, and relationships — key elements of no and low-code app development:
- Objects: Identify the key objects (e.g., Accounts, Contacts, Opportunities) and custom objects needed to support the business processes.
- Fields: Determine the necessary fields for each object, ensuring they capture all relevant data points.
- Relationships: Establish relationships between objects using lookup or master-detail relationships to ensure data integrity and enable comprehensive reporting.
- User Interface: Design page layouts and record types to provide users with relevant information and a streamlined experience. Use Salesforce App Builder to create custom Lightning pages for different user roles.
Synebo team offers Salesforce consulting services to assist you in planning for the best app structure and the subsequent development process.
Step 3: Creating the App Using Salesforce App Builder
While the exact procedure for creating an app with Salesforce app builder can vary depending on the project, here are some basic steps suitable to nearly any app intended:
#1 Access Salesforce App Builder
- Login to Salesforce: Log into your Salesforce account.
- Navigate to App Builder: From the setup page, type “App Builder” into the Quick Find box and select “Lightning App Builder.”
#2 Create a New App
- Click on ‘New’: In Lightning App Builder, click “New” and select “App Page,” then click “Next.”
- Name your app: Enter a name (e.g., “Custom Sales App”) and click “Next.”
#3 Design the App Layout
- Choose a template: Select a layout template (e.g., Header and One Column) and click “Finish.”
- Add components: Drag and drop components (Record Detail, List View, Reports) from the left panel onto the canvas.
- Configure components: Click each component to set properties, like selecting objects and fields for Record Detail.
#4 Set Component Visibility
- Set filters: Control component visibility with filters, such as displaying components for specific roles.
#5 Preview and Activate
- Preview the app: Click “Preview” to review the app.
- Activate the app: Click “Activate,” choose to make it default or assign to specific profiles.
#6 Assign the App
- Assign to profiles: Select profiles for app access and click “Save.”
#7 Deploy the App
- Deploy: Users can access the app from the App Launcher in Salesforce.
With our substantial experience and expertise, the Synebo team can advise you and assist you throughout the custom Salesforce app development process. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to discuss opportunities.
Step 4: Automating Processes with Salesforce Flow
Thinking of automation in Salesforce, here are some processes that come to mind:
- Opportunity follow-up: Automatically send an email to a sales rep when an Opportunity is created or updated.
- Lead conversion: Automate the process of converting a lead into an account, contact, and opportunity.
- Case escalation: Automatically escalate cases that have not been resolved within a specified timeframe.
To enable any of these, you need to use the Salesforce Flow solution. Next, let’s take a look at the basic process for creating a Salesforce flow with the prospect of automating any listed of another process you like in Salesforce:
#1 Access Salesforce Flow
- Login to Salesforce: Log into your Salesforce account.
- Navigate to Flow Builder: Type “Flows” into the Quick Find box and select “Flows.”
#2 Create a New Flow
- Click on ‘New Flow’: In Flow Builder, click “New Flow.”
- Select Flow Type: Choose “Record-Triggered Flow” and click “Next.”
#3 Configure Trigger
- Set Trigger Conditions: Specify the object and conditions that trigger the flow (e.g., new Opportunity creation).
- Set Entry Conditions: Define when the flow should run.
#4 Add Elements to the Flow
- Add Actions: Drag and drop elements like “Create Records,” “Update Records,” or “Send Email” onto the canvas.
- Configure Actions: Set properties for each action (e.g., fields to update or email templates).
#5 Set Decision Points
- Add Decision Elements: Use decision elements to branch the flow based on criteria (e.g., check Opportunity amount).
- Configure Outcomes: Define the outcomes for each decision point.
#6 Save and Activate the Flow
- Save the Flow: Click “Save,” provide a name and description.
- Activate the Flow: Click “Activate” to start the automation.
Step 5: Testing and Deployment
Testing is essential to ensure your custom Salesforce app functions correctly and meets user expectations before going live. It helps identify any issues and ensures a smooth user experience.
Checklist for testing functionalities and user experience:
- Verify workflows, field setups, data capture, updates, and integrations.
- Check UI elements on different devices, responsiveness, navigation, and accessibility.
- Ensure user permissions, data privacy, and protection measures are in place.
- Evaluate performance under different loads and user volumes.
- Conduct UAT with end-users to validate business requirements and gather feedback.
- Test email notifications and other automated messages for accuracy and relevance.
- Confirm data migration accuracy if data is being transferred from other systems.
Deploying the app in a production environment requires careful planning and adherence to best practices. Ensure thorough testing, provide user training, and monitor performance to ensure a successful launch.
Looking for a trusted provider of Salesforce consulting services? Reach out to Synebo, and let’s discuss.
Best Practices for Maintaining and Updating No-Code Salesforce Apps
Now, we proceed with discussing matters of maintaining and updating the ready low-code and no-code apps. Here are the best practices you can be recommended to implement post-release:
Regular Updates and Maintenance
Regular updates are essential to keep the app functional and secure. Schedule updates during low-usage periods to minimize disruption. Use Salesforce’s release management tools to manage updates efficiently and maintain a detailed change log for transparency.
- Keep the app functional and secure.
- Schedule updates during low-usage periods.
- Use Salesforce’s release management tools.
- Maintain a detailed change log.
User Training and Support
Training end-users is crucial for effective app utilization. Provide comprehensive training sessions, create user guides, and offer ongoing support through helpdesks or dedicated support teams. Implement feedback mechanisms, such as surveys or user forums, to gather input for continuous improvement.
- Provide comprehensive training sessions.
- Create user guides.
- Offer ongoing support through helpdesks or dedicated teams.
- Implement feedback mechanisms like surveys or user forums.
Monitoring and Analytics
Monitoring app performance and user adoption is critical to identifying issues and opportunities for enhancement. Track key metrics such as app usage rates, user satisfaction scores, error rates, and performance benchmarks. Use Salesforce’s analytics tools or third-party integrations to gather insights and make data-driven decisions.
- Track app usage rates and user satisfaction scores.
- Monitor error rates and performance benchmarks.
- Use Salesforce’s analytics tools or third-party integrations.
- Make data-driven decisions based on gathered insights.
You may be interested in discovering additionally about how to build an app for Salesforce AppExchange.
Benefits of Partnering with Synebo in Building No-Code Salesforce Apps
Even low-code and no-code app development requires substantial knowledge and experience with the Salesforce ecosystem. The right call for many companies is to partner with a licensed provider who can address every uncertainty and provide assistance. Here are some of the many benefits you obtain by partnering with Synebo:
- Proven expertise and experience. Synebo team has been on the market for more than 8 years already. We have a proven track record of 1000+ Salesforce projects completed across multiple industries.
- Certified Salesforce provider. We have a total of 252 Salesforce certificates on the team. Besides, Synebo is an official Salesforce consulting partner, PDO, and ISV & AppExchange partner.
- Business-oriented approach. Any development solution targets a particular business pain point or addresses a particular customer need. That’s why when crafting the solution, we keep business objectives in mind prioritising them over mere development goals.
Understanding the differences between no-code and low-code development is crucial for modern app creation. These approaches provide significant advantages, including faster development, cost-effectiveness, and empowering non-technical users.
At Synebo, we excel in utilizing low-code and no-code as well as conventional development methods to create tailored Salesforce apps that meet your business needs. With more than 8 years on the market and over 1000 projects delivered, we can address any of your dev needs with flying colors.
Should you need a licensed Salesforce partner, contact Synebo.