Flat File Integration in Salesforce: Simplifying Data Exchange : [email protected] (Kapil)

Flat File Integration in Salesforce: Simplifying Data Exchange
by: [email protected] (Kapil)
blow post content copied from  Salesforce Bolt
click here to view original post



### Summary of Flat File Integration for Salesforce When using Salesforce, companies often need to move data between different systems. While API integrations allow for real-time data sharing, flat file integration is a reliable alternative for situations where immediate connectivity isn’t required. This blog post explores flat file integration, detailing its definition, functioning, differences from API integration, and use cases. #### What is Flat File Integration? Flat file integration involves transferring data between Salesforce and other systems using structured, plain-text files. Common formats for these files are CSV (Comma-Separated Values), TXT, and TSV (Tab-Separated Values). This method is typically chosen when: - Direct real-time connections aren’t possible. - The data volume is too large for an API to handle efficiently. - Data integration occurs on a set schedule rather than in real-time. **How It Works:** 1. **Data Export:** Data is extracted and saved in a flat file format. 2. **File Transfer:** The file is securely transferred to Salesforce using tools like FTP or SFTP. 3. **Data Import:** Salesforce processes the file using tools such as Data Loader. 4. **Error Handling:** Errors are logged, and corrections are made before reprocessing. **Example:** A retail company updates its inventory daily using a CSV file, which is then uploaded to Salesforce to keep stock levels accurate. #### Key Differences Between Flat File and API Integrations - **Transfer Mode:** Flat files use batch transfers; APIs allow for real-time updates. - **Format:** Flat files are typically in CSV or TXT format, while APIs use JSON or XML. - **Speed:** Flat file transfers are slower compared to the instant updates of APIs. - **Connectivity:** Flat file transfers don’t require direct links between systems; APIs do. - **Complexity:** Flat files are simpler to set up with no coding required; APIs need configuration. - **Cost:** Flat file integrations are generally less expensive than API integrations. #### When to Choose Each Integration Type - **Flat File Integration:** Best for limited connectivity, high data volumes, non-critical real-time needs, and budget-friendly solutions. - **API Integration:** Ideal for real-time data needs, API-enabled systems, and frequent data exchanges. #### Conclusion While flat file integration lacks the immediacy of API integration, its simplicity, reliability, and lower costs make it a suitable choice for many organizations. Understanding your specific needs can help you select the right integration approach for Salesforce. For further exploration, the next part of this series will focus on tools like Data Loader and common challenges in flat file integrations. **Additional Resources:** - [SFTP Trial Website: sftpcloud.io](https://sftpcloud.io) - [FTP-API: ftp-api.com](https://ftp-api.com) ### Hashtags for SEO #SalesforceIntegration #FlatFileIntegration #APIIntegration #DataTransfer #BusinessSolutions #SalesforceTips #DataManagement #TechSimplified #CloudComputing #ETLTools #Coding #DataLoader



 When working with Salesforce, organizations often need to transfer data between systems. While API integrations are widely used for real-time or automated data exchanges, flat file integration remains a practical and reliable option in scenarios where real-time connectivity isn't necessary. In this blog, we’ll explore what flat file integration is and how it differs from API integration.


1. What is Flat File Integration?

Flat file integration is a method of exchanging data between Salesforce and other systems using files that store information in a structured, plain-text format. Common formats for flat files include CSV (Comma-Separated Values), TXT, and TSV (Tab-Separated Values).

This approach is typically used when:

  • Systems cannot connect directly in real-time.

  • The volume of data is too large for an API-based solution to handle efficiently.

  • Integration happens on a scheduled basis rather than in real-time.

How It Works:

  1. Data Export: Data is extracted from the source system and saved in a flat file format.

  2. File Transfer: The file is securely transferred to Salesforce, often using tools like FTP, SFTP, or a middleware platform.

  3. Data Import: Salesforce processes the file using tools like Data Loader, Data Import Wizard, or third-party ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tools.

  4. Error Handling: Any errors in the data are logged, and corrections are made before reprocessing.

Example:

Imagine a retail company that manages inventory in an external system. Once a day, the system generates a CSV file containing updated stock levels. This file is uploaded to Salesforce, ensuring the platform reflects accurate inventory information without needing real-time updates.


2. How Is Flat File Integration Different from API Integration?

Flat file and API integrations both serve to transfer data between systems, but they differ significantly in their approach, use cases, and benefits.

Feature

Flat File Integration

API Integration

Data Transfer Mode

Batch (scheduled or manual uploads)

Real-time (instant data transfer)

Format

File-based (CSV, TXT, TSV)

JSON, XML, or similar structured formats

Speed

Slower, depends on file transfer and processing times

Faster, with near-instantaneous updates

Connectivity

Does not require direct system connectivity

Requires a live connection between systems

Complexity

Easier to set up, no coding needed

Requires API configuration and development

Error Handling

Errors are logged and corrected before reprocessing

Immediate error responses during transaction

Scalability

Suitable for periodic large data transfers

Ideal for frequent, small-scale updates

Cost

Lower cost, no extensive middleware or API licenses

Higher cost due to API development and usage


When to Choose Flat File Integration

Flat file integration is ideal when:

  1. Connectivity is limited: The external system does not support APIs or has restrictions on real-time connections.

  2. Data volume is high: Large datasets are easier and cheaper to transfer in batches using flat files.

  3. Real-time updates aren’t required: Data updates can be delayed without impacting business processes.

  4. Cost considerations: Flat file integration requires fewer resources, making it a budget-friendly option.


When to Choose API Integration

API integration is the better choice when:

  1. Real-time data is critical: For scenarios like customer order updates, where any delay could disrupt operations.

  2. Systems are API-enabled: If both Salesforce and the external system support APIs, they can communicate more effectively.

  3. Frequent data exchange is needed: APIs are more efficient for small, frequent updates.


Conclusion

Flat file integration may not have the real-time capabilities of API integration, but its simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable tool for many businesses. By understanding the differences and evaluating your requirements, you can choose the right integration approach for your Salesforce ecosystem.


Flat file integration is a tried-and-true solution, perfect for batch data transfers and systems that don't support real-time connectivity. In the next part of this series, we’ll dive deeper into tools like Data Loader and explore how to handle common challenges in flat file integrations. Stay tuned!

For the example shown in the video you can follow below code!

SFTP Trial Website : sftpcloud.io

FTP-API : ftp-api.com


Named Credentials



External Credentials



User Permissions



Apex

 1
 2
 3
 4
 5
 6
 7
 8
 9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
public with sharing class FlatFileIntegration {
  public FlatFileIntegration() {
  }

  public void triggerIntegration() {
    FTPRequestWrapper ftp = new FTPRequestWrapper();
    ftp.path = '/';
    ftp.fileName = 'hello.txt';
    ftp.body = EncodingUtil.base64Encode(Blob.valueOf('Hello Testing'));

    String jsonPayload = '[' + JSON.serialize(ftp) + ']';
    HttpRequest req = new HttpRequest();
    req.setEndpoint('callout:FlatFileNamedCredential');
    req.setMethod('POST');
    req.setBody(jsonPayload);
    Http http = new Http();
    HTTPResponse response = http.send(req);

    System.debug('###Response: ' + response.getBody());
  }
  public class FTPRequestWrapper {
    public String path;
    public String fileName;
    public String body;
  }
}

Output



Checkout the complete video tutorial below

 If you have any question please leave a comment below.

If you would like to add something to this post please leave a comment below.
Share this blog with your friends if you find it helpful somehow !

Thanks
Happy Coding :)

January 18, 2025 at 06:13PM
Click here for more details...

=============================
The original post is available in Salesforce Bolt by [email protected] (Kapil)
this post has been published as it is through automation. Automation script brings all the top bloggers post under a single umbrella.
The purpose of this blog, Follow the top Salesforce bloggers and collect all blogs in a single place through automation.
============================

Salesforce