Salesforce Developers Podcast

Join us as we discuss event-driven architectures (EDA) with MuleSoft’s latest capabilities with Alex Martinez. The discussion will explore the integration of AsyncAPI specifications, which streamline the transition from REST to event-driven systems, enabling high-volume asynchronous communications and improved API lifecycle management. The conversation highlights tools like Anypoint Studio and Anypoint Code Builder that simplify complex integrations using messaging technologies such as Kafka, Solace, and Salesforce Platform Events. Whether new to EDA or an experienced developer, this episode is packed with valuable information and resources to elevate integration strategies and deepen understanding of the future of software development. Show Highlights: Transitioning from REST to event-driven systems using async API specifications. Exploration of MuleSoft tools like Anypoint Studio and Anypoint Code Builder for API design and management. Benefits of using MuleSoft for integrating messaging technologies like Kafka, Solace, Anypoint MQ, and Salesforce Platform Events. Importance of API governance for maintaining compliance and consistency across specifications. Links: Build Real-Time AI Experiences with MuleSoft – https://www.salesforce.com/plus/experience/dreamforce_2024/series/it_at_dreamforce_2024/episode/episode-s1e24 AsyncAPI Support to Implement Event-Driven Architecture – https://docs.mulesoft.com/release-notes/platform/event-driven-api

Australia’s Dave Norris joins us in exploring the cutting-edge techniques of Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) and hybrid search methods. We delve into the limitations of traditional keyword searches in the face of unstructured data like PDFs and emails, which make up a significant portion of enterprise data. By using Data Cloud and hyperscalers like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, Dave shows how to transform chaotic data into intelligent search engines. The discussion highlights the role of context in AI-generated responses, illustrating this with the challenge of summarizing meetings without enough information. The episode also examines the potential of hybrid search technologies such as Agentforce and vector search, emphasizing the importance of prompt engineering in refining data retrieval. Through examples from Dreamforce and fictional companies, listeners gain insights into how these technologies enhance user experiences by combining semantic and keyword searches, showcasing the advanced potential of modern search innovations. Show Highlights: Discussion on the limitations of traditional keyword searches in data retrieval. Insights into the use of Data Cloud for managing unstructured data via hyperscalers like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. Examination of hybrid search techniques, including Agentforce and vector search technology. Focus on the importance of prompt engineering to enhance AI responses and prevent hallucinations. Introduction to hybrid search, combining vector and keyword search for improved precision and relevance. Links: Using Retrieval Augmented Generation in Data Cloud — https://help.salesforce.com/s/articleView?id=sf.c360_a_rag_overview.htm&type=5

In this episode, we dive into the latest innovations and updates unveiled at Dreamforce 2024 with Philippe Ozil. We explore the refreshed Lightning Design System (SLDS2), which enhances accessibility and themability without disrupting customizations. Discover the game-changing Local Development (beta), offering real-time component updates and seamless page state maintenance. We also highlight new mobile capabilities, including native feature plugins and the empowering AgentForce suite designed for specialized AI agents. Learn about significant advancements in Salesforce tooling, the benefits of local development without deployment, and the introduction of Core Cloud, a new sample app rich with educational resources. Don’t miss insights from the latest developer keynote and future trends in Data Cloud and Data Graphs. Show Highlights: Deep dive into Lightning Web Components Local Development version 2. New mobile capabilities and native feature plugins. Advancements in Salesforce tooling, such as local development benefits without deployment to an org and hub module reloading. Exploration of Core Cloud, a new sample app for developers focusing on agents, prompts, and Data Cloud. Overview of Data Cloud features, new color themes, and future trends Links: Developer Keynote: Build the Future with the Platform – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80reYTg9xXI LWC Local Development Server (Beta) – https://developer.salesforce.com/docs/platform/sfvscode-extensions/guide/lwclocaldev.html

In this episode, we welcome back Mohith Shrivastava to delve into the groundbreaking features of the Salesforce Winter ’25 release. We discuss Agentforce, Salesforce’s innovative AI agentic solution that leverages tools like Flows, Apex, and Prompt Builder to autonomously execute tasks. The episode also highlights advancements in Agent Builder (fka Copilot Builder) for creating assistive and autonomous agents, and the introduction of Agentforce for Developers. Further, we explore significant updates in Salesforce Data Cloud, including Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) capabilities, vector search, and the much-anticipated beta release of Data Cloud sandboxes. Finally, we touch on the new local development feature for Lightning Web Components (LWC) that provide real-time previews and rapid iterations. Tune in to learn how these Winter ’25 updates can elevate your Salesforce development and data management capabilities. Show Highlights: Enhancements to Copilot Builder with new topic-based action categorization for assistive and autonomous agents. A chat agent for Salesforce developers to explain code, write test cases, and generate documentation. Upcoming features like Data Cloud sandboxes for secure testing and new dependencies between Data Cloud and Salesforce platform packages for ISVs. Lightning Web Components (LWC) advancements, including local development for real-time previews and rapid iterations. New Apex feature preventing collection modification during iteration to enhance code stability and consistency. Links: The Salesforce Developer’s Guide to the Winter ’25 Release – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/09/winter25-developers

Alba Rivas, a passionate Salesforce Developer Advocate, shares her insights on the power of Salesforce’s Models API. Discover how this API enables developers to seamlessly integrate large language models via REST API or Apex, eliminating the need for custom code or prompt templates. Alba highlights the critical role of the Einstein Trust Layer in ensuring data security, compliance, and efficient integration with external models. Gain knowledge on AI implementation, including maintaining audit trails, monitoring data for toxicity, and using human feedback for refining AI systems. We also explore the flexibility and capabilities of the Models API, offering a centralized interface for developers, along with resources like Postman collections, codeLive sessions, and an upcoming Trailhead module to support your journey in mastering generative AI with Salesforce. Show Highlights: Discussion on the Einstein Trust Layer’s role in ensuring security, data masking, and compliance for generative AI applications. Comparison between using prompt templates and the Models API. Importance of maintaining an audit trail. Focus on the value of human feedback in refining AI systems and the benefits of a centralized interface for developers. Insights into practical AI implementation and the flexibility offered by the Models API. Links: Postman Collection – https://www.postman.com/salesforce-developers/workspace~34382471-0c97-40e5-a206-f947271665c4/collection/onih7sc/models-apis-beta Einstein Models API Documentation – https://developer.salesforce.com/docs/einstein/genai/guide/models-api.html codeLive: Exploring the New Models API (Beta) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf95_ghGeNI

In this episode, we sit down with expert Akshata Sawant to discuss MuleSoft Intelligent Document Processing (IDP). Akshata delves into how IDP uses AI to extract and organize data from a variety of unstructured documents, such as purchase orders, invoices, and driving licenses, using AWS Textract for exact information extraction. The discussion highlights IDP’s seamless integration with multiple systems via REST API endpoints and its application in automating the processing of daily invoices received via email. Learn about IDP’s ability to handle different document structures without needing multiple templates and the crucial role of human oversight when the AI’s confidence ratio falls below 80%, ensuring accuracy and reliability. This episode offers a comprehensive look at how IDP can revolutionize document workflows, balancing automation with human intervention, and provides valuable resources for further learning. Show Highlights: Using AI to extract and organize data from unstructured documents Integration of AWS Textract for exact information extraction and seamless integration via REST API endpoints Accessing and using IDP through the Anypoint Platform with ease Managing different document structures without multiple templates and the role of human oversight for accuracy Links: Getting Started with Intelligent Document Processing: Part 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yi160vy7gg4 Getting Started with Intelligent Document Processing: Part 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGvAypuzAvw How to Get Started With Intelligent Document Processing – https://blogs.mulesoft.com/dev-guides/how-to-get-started-with-intelligent-document-processing/

What groundbreaking features are making waves with Salesforce Data Cloud this summer? Join us for a conversation with Danielle Larregui as she walks us through the latest advancements in the Summer ’24 release. We discuss the innovative ability to virtualize data model objects on account records and the extended reach of Enrichments to include more standard and custom objects. Plus, Danielle introduces new connectors like the Heroku Postgres connector for seamless data integration from Heroku to Data Cloud. And that’s not all! We also caught up with René to talk about the buzz surrounding the AI Now Tour. These tours are a fantastic opportunity for those eager to get hands-on with Einstein and Data Cloud. Happy listening! Show Highlights: Detailed discussion on Data Cloud’s new functionalities, including virtualizing data model objects on account records Expansion of Enrichments to more standard and custom objects New connectors, specifically highlighting the Heroku Postgres connector for seamless data integration Feature Manager in Data Cloud setup, enabling access to beta connectors Links: Data Cloud Connectors Overview – https://help.salesforce.com/s/articleView?id=sf.c360_a_sources_targets.htm&type=5 Why the Heroku PostgreSQL Connector for Data Cloud is Important for Developers – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/06/heroku-postgres-connector-for-data-cloud AI NOW Tour – https://developer.salesforce.com/ai-now-tour

Could integrating generative AI revolutionize your business processes? Join us as we sit down with Charles Watkins, the newest Salesforce Developer Advocate, to unveil the transformative capabilities of Salesforce’s Prompt Builder. Charles shares a compelling example from his own support background, illustrating how this innovative tool can streamline the summarization and categorization of support cases. Learn how Prompt Builder simplifies switching between large language models like OpenAI and Microsoft Azure, making advanced AI accessible without complex integrations. We also decode Salesforce’s cutting-edge Models API, currently in beta, offering a granular, controlled approach to generative AI. Charles discusses how the API can be harnessed to build chat-based conversational AI apps, embeddings, and more using REST API and Apex interfaces. Discover the security advantages of the Einstein Trust Layer, which ensures data privacy, and hear about the impressive response times of models like GPT-4. This episode is a treasure trove for developers eager to experiment with Salesforce’s open-gen AI ecosystem. Don’t miss this opportunity to get inspired and elevate your AI game. Show Highlights: The Prompt Builder tool for automating business processes like summarizing and categorizing support cases. Simplified integration with multiple large language models such as OpenAI and Microsoft Azure. The new Models API for creating chat-based AI apps, embeddings, and text generation solutions. Benefits of the Einstein Trust Layer for enhanced security and data privacy. The rapid response times of models like GPT-4 and the lack of a streaming API. Links: Applying Fundamentals of Prompt Engineering with Prompt Builder – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/07/applying-fundamentals-of-prompt-engineering-with-prompt-builder Using Prompt Builder, Flows, and Apex to Summarize and Classify Cases Faster – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/06/using-prompt-builder-flows-and-apex-to-summarize-and-classify-cases-faster Prompt Builder for Developers Playlist – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgIMQe2PKPSIarRb6ud6odVxB1gv-hbO8 Einstein 1 Studio Developer Center – https://developer.salesforce.com/developer-centers/einstein-1-studio

Join us as we welcome Alex Martinez to discuss the latest updates on Anypoint Code Builder (ACB), a new IDE based on Visual Studio Code, which is set to replace the old Eclipse-based Anypoint Studio. Alex sheds light on the significant release that occurred on June 4th, 2024, bringing notable improvements to DataWeave and MUnit. You’ll hear about the benefits of transitioning to a modern IDE, the enhanced capabilities for running MUnit tests, and the introduction of the DataWeave Expression Builder. Listen in as we explore the recent enhancements in the MuleSoft ecosystem, including the ability to select different Java versions within Anypoint Studio and Anypoint Code Builder (ACB). We’ll discuss the dual flavors of ACB — local and web-based IDEs — and their respective advantages, such as ease of configuration and flexibility for specific projects. This episode promises an exciting look ahead at future updates and the ongoing evolution of MuleSoft tools, sure to spark your interest in revisiting and exploring these new capabilities further. Show Highlights: Overview of ACB as a Visual Studio Code-based IDE Enhancements in DataWeave and MUnit within ACB User-friendly features of the DataWeave Expression Builder Dual options of local and web-based IDEs in ACB Support for different Java versions in both Anypoint Studio and ACB New features, including async API support and improved API kit configurations Links: MuleSoft Anypoint Code Builder (ACB) Release Notes – https://docs.mulesoft.com/release-notes/code-builder/acb-release-notes Anypoint Code Builder June ’24 Release Playlist – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiONnRuKRuJCtQBGW9Qcrp_tCMgBmg0-F

What if you could use the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform your business operations? In this episode, we welcome Dave Norris to discuss the profound impact of Salesforce’s strategic acquisitions — such as ExactTarget, Pardot, Heroku, and Slack — on the developer ecosystem. We cover the intricacies of integrating diversified data systems and emphasize the importance of centralized data management through MuleSoft. We’ll explore how Data Cloud handles structured and unstructured data, enhancing AI functionalities with tools like Prompt Builder and the newly released Data Cloud Vector Search. This episode sheds light on how grounding AI with enterprise-specific information can significantly boost productivity and deliver accurate, context-rich responses. Listen in for a detailed description of data and AI within the Salesforce ecosystem! Show Highlights: Centralizing data with MuleSoft and the role of Data Cloud in data ingestion, mapping, and security Using AI capabilities like Einstein AI within the Salesforce ecosystem Integrating structured and unstructured data using Data Cloud for enhanced AI functionality Practical insights and use cases, including predictive AI in animal adoption data General availability of Data Cloud Vector Search and its impact on semantic searching Enhancing enterprise productivity by grounding AI with specific enterprise data for more accurate responses Links: Data Cloud + Einstein AI: The Developer’s Pocket Guide – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/05/data-cloud-einstein-ai-the-developers-pocket-guide Bring Your Own Large Language Model in Einstein 1 Studio – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/03/bring-your-own-large-language-model-in-einstein-1-studio

In this episode, we discuss the intricacies of integrating Salesforce with AWS alongside expert Philippe Ozil. We cover the capabilities of Salesforce Connect and its AWS adapters, which facilitate efficient data and event-driven integrations without the hassle of data replication. Hear the benefits of Amazon DynamoDB, Amazon Athena, and the versatile GraphQL adapter, each serving unique use cases within Salesforce. As we wait to hear Philippe’s insights from the CheckDreaming conference in Prague, we encourage you to continue your learning journey. Thank you for joining us and sharing in our passion for the evolving world of Salesforce development. Show Highlights: Overview of Salesforce Connect and its AWS adapters. Benefits of virtualizing access to external data sources and their impact on developer experience. Event-driven integrations using event relays to connect Salesforce events to Amazon EventBridge. Upcoming features like managed subscriptions for PubSub API in the Salesforce Summer ’24 release. Practical tips for Salesforce developers to start experimenting with AWS integrations. Links: Integrating with AWS Thanks to Unified Developer Experience (YouTube) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNNI_ApmTHA Explore Unified Developer Experience Powered By AWS – https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/trails/unified-developer-experience-powered-by-aws Announcing the Salesforce Connect Adapter for GraphQL (blog) – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2023/08/announcing-the-salesforce-connect-adapter-for-graphql

Join us as we sit down with Salesforce maestro Mohith Shrivastava to unwrap the Summer ’24 Salesforce release. We take a tour through the latest and greatest enhancements that are stirring up excitement in the developer community. From the seamless integration of Data Cloud with the Salesforce core platform to the introduction of static SOQL for Data Model Objects (DMOs), our conversation lights the path to simplifying the creation of test classes with the ability to mock SOQL queries. Listen in as we uncover the revolutionary developments in Einstein Copilot for developers and how custom actions can now be extended and built using Apex, flows, or prompt templates. Wrapping up our discussion, we celebrate the quality of life improvements that are game-changers for developers. Show Highlights: Discussion on Data Cloud integration with Salesforce core and static SOQL for DMOs. Introduction of the ability to mock SOQL queries, enhancing test class creation. Insights into Einstein Copilot going GA, custom action capabilities, and improved analytics. Monthly updates on Einstein 1 Studio features and quality-of-life improvements for developers. Apex enhancements including cursors for async processing and deepened SOQL query levels. New features for Lightning Web Components (LWCs) and enhancements to ISV packaging and APIs. Links: Read: The Salesforce Developer’s Guide to the Summer ’24 Release RSVP: Release Readiness Live is back on Thursday, May 30 at 9 a.m. PST. Hear about the latest features from some of Salesforce’s excellent product managers and developer advocates. Read: Summer ’24 Release Notes Join: Salesforce Developers Trailblazer Community group

Join us as we chat with Mohith Shrivastava, a Salesforce Developer Advocate who needs no introduction to the Salesforce community. Listen in as Mohith unravels the intricacies of Einstein Copilot custom actions and how this conversational AI assistant is revolutionizing the Salesforce experience by understanding an organization’s metadata and data permissions. For developers, the excitement lies in custom actions — Mohith shares how these can be crafted using flows, Apex, and prompt templates to enhance productivity and user interaction. Mohith explains the flexibility offered by Einstein Copilot’s use of large language models, moving away from the rigidity of traditional chatbot implementations. We dissect how developers can think of their implementations as microservices, writing individual actions that the reasoning engine then seamlessly chains together. Tune in and empower your Salesforce development skills with insights from one of the platform’s most recognized advocates. Show Highlights: How developers can utilize flows, Apex, and prompt templates to build dynamic conversational interfaces. The use of large language models for flexible, microservices-based approaches in chatbot design. Technical details on extending Salesforce’s AI capabilities using standard technologies for personalized user interactions. Importance of proper architecture, understanding governor limits, and optimizing triggers for successful AI integration in Salesforce. The potential of integrating external data and services to enhance Salesforce AI functionalities. The importance of quality data and Data Cloud for improving AI experiences within Salesforce applications. Links: Build Custom Copilot Actions Using Apex – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/03/build-custom-copilot-actions-using-apex Build Custom Copilot Actions using Apex – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XvyeiwNbDI Extend Your Copilot with Custom Actions – https://help.salesforce.com/s/articleView?id=sf.copilot_actions_custom.htm&type=5

Join the conversation with Akshata Sawant from MuleSoft as we unlock the combination of MuleSoft’s integration prowess and Salesforce Data Cloud. Hear Akshata’s takeaways from TrailblazerDX, where she delves into MuleSoft’s transformative capabilities for data handling. It’s a masterclass in leveraging the dynamic DataWeave for schema generation, tailored for developers grappling with diverse data formats. Experience firsthand how MuleSoft shapes the future of data integration, all while ensuring the highest security and compliance standards. We then discuss MuleSoft APIs with Salesforce’s Einstein Copilot. Don’t miss out on this dialogue filled with the excitement of what’s to come as we integrate Data Cloud, MuleSoft, and Einstein Copilot. Show Highlights: Data ingestion, querying, and record deletion through MuleSoft connectors, and schema generation with DataWeave. The collaboration of MuleSoft APIs with Einstein Copilot to enable complex operations like data updates and automated email notifications. Importance of built-in security and compliance in integrating third-party systems with Salesforce’s AI capabilities. The versatility of MuleSoft in handling various data formats and facilitating complex integration tasks. Future discussions on the potential of integrating Data Cloud, MuleSoft, and Einstein Copilot for enhanced efficiency and operations. Links: Power Up Data Cloud with MuleSoft – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqvqfOjvHiY Intelligent Integration with Copilot Actions, APIs, and MuleSoft – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhfliR2meoc

Join us as we welcome the Data Cloud Queen herself, Danielle Larregui. Get ready to witness the groundbreaking power of Einstein 1 Studio as Danielle unveils its transformative capabilities within the Salesforce Data Cloud. Discover how developers can effortlessly create AI models using a no-code or low-code approach directly with their Data Lake data. We’ll explore the practicality of generating predictions, integrating external AI platforms, and leveraging built-in tools for assessing prediction accuracy. Brace yourself for the standout feature of ‘Bring Your Own Model,’ which allows seamless, real-time data sharing without the need for ETL processes. We’ll discuss the availability of Snowflake’s integration and the potential that lies with Google BigQuery. Imagine how these integrations can revolutionize your external data management, from segmentation to identity resolution. Stay tuned to learn how Data Cloud Enrichment could further enhance your Salesforce CRM by leveraging the power of Data Cloud data. Show Highlights: Introduction of Einstein 1 Studio and Model Builder within Salesforce Data Cloud for creating AI models using no-code or low-code approaches. How the “Bring Your Own Model” feature enables real-time data sharing with Salesforce Data Cloud without ETL processes. How Data Cloud Enrichment allows Salesforce CRM records to be updated with Data Cloud data. Remote Data Cloud, which could unify data management for organizations with multiple Salesforce instances. Ability to use predictions made by AI models in Salesforce flows, Apex classes, and reporting within Data Cloud. Links: Bring Your Google Vertex AI Models To Data Cloud – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2023/11/bring-your-google-vertex-ai-models-to-data-cloud Use Model Builder to Integrate Databricks Models with Salesforce – https://developer.salesforce.com/blogs/2024/03/use-model-builder-to-integrate-databricks-models-with-salesforce