Use SOQL over AltSync for the FieldFX Mobile App

FieldFX offers two ways on how Salesforce records get synced to mobile devices.

AltSync Salesforce Object Query Language
(SOQL)

This way uses a special checkbox added to key FieldFX objects. If the checkbox is checked (manually or automatically from triggers or nightly processes), a record is marked to sync to mobile. The main purpose is to limit the number of records sent to only those that were set to active or used recently. This method works on a record-by-record basis relating to activity. Inactive records are automatically dropped from the mobile sync.

This way doesn’t rely on a per-record flag. With SOQL, you can write a query to pull exactly the records you need based on your defined conditions. You can selectively retrieve only the relevant fields and records, filtering and sorting data in one step.

SOQL filters are preferred over AltSync filters because of:

  • Selective Retrieval: A query you write only returns the records (and even just the fields) you need. Mobile devices aren’t overloaded with unnecessary data.

  • Efficiency: SOQL is designed to work within Salesforce’s limits (often called governing limits) and allow you to filter records in bulk rather than single one-by-one processing (as in using the AltSync flag).

  • Flexibility: You can adjust the query criteria with your changing business needs. Otherwise, with AltSync, you depend on a fixed sync flag which might not cover every scenario.

To start the transition to using SOQL, complete these sections:

Verify which Transactional Objects are Syncing

  1. Review Sync
    Configurations
    in Back Office

  • Log into Back Office.

  • Navigated to Sync Engine or AltSync section. A list of objects appears that are configured to sync.

  • Examine the objects for the AltSync checkbox or specific sync flag.

  1. Check Sync Health
    and Logs

  • Use the Sync Health Board (or similar FieldFX monitoring tools) to see which objects are actively syncing and if there are any errors or performance issues.

  • From here you can see if your current configuration is working as you expect.

  1. Determine FieldFX Mobile
    App Migration Requirements

  • Ensure FieldFX Mobile App users have the proper permissions for the objects and fields needed for syncing.

  • Confirm each transactional object has the correct configuration in the fields per the FieldFX Mobile App.

  • Determine if you need to adjust syncing criteria. For example, if you plan to move from the AltSync flag-based approach to a SOQL query-based approach, you need to translate the current logic into SOQL queries (see Transition from AltSync to SOQL).

  • Set up a sandbox or testing environment to run sync test. With this, you ensure that objects and records before as expected.

Continue with Transition from AltSync to SOQL.

Transition from AltSync to SOQL

Depending on your business processes and the setup of your FieldFX org, these steps may be more complicated or simpler than described. When using the FieldFX Mobile App, use SOQL instead of AltSync

To transition to SOQL and not rely on AltSync, follow these basic processes so SOQL dynamically fetches the precise data for mobile sync:

  1. Review Current AltSync Setup

    • Identify the objects and records currently using the AltSync field and related automations (such as triggers and nightly processes) to determine if they should sync

    • Note the existing criteria in use that you use to determine if a record is marked to sync

  2. Define Data Criteria for Syncing

    • Analyze how you are using AltSync

    • Translate that logic into SOQL filter criteria so these queries return exactly the needed records

  3. Disable AltSync Automation

    • When you are ready to convert, disable or remove the AltSync triggers or the scheduled processes which set the AltSync flag

    • If the AltSync field is no longer needed, plan to remove it only after ensuring no business process still relies on it.

  4. Develop and Test SOQL Queries

    • Build the SOQL queries to mimic the AltSync logic you used.

    • Use can use Salesforce tools (like the Developer console or Query Editor) or FieldFX’s Sync Profile Wizard Admin Tool to create and test your queries. The admin tool has a built-in validation of SOQL syntax. Testing enables you to confirm if they are returning the correct records while still following best practices.

  5. Update Integration or Mobile Sync Logic

    • Replace code or processes checking the AltSync field with your SOQL queries.

    • Ensure any mobile or integration components pull records directly via SOQL rather than reading the AltSync flag.

  6. Perform Complete Testing and Validation

    • Validate your new SOQL-based queries return the correct dataset in both sandbox and test environments.

    • Monitor the performance and governor limit usage to ensure the efficiency of the queries

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