The Order of Execution in Salesforce: A Day in the Life of a Restaurant
Understanding the order of execution in Salesforce can be likened to the operations of a well-run restaurant. Each time an order is placed (or a record is created, updated, or deleted in Salesforce)
Introduction
Understanding
Opening the Restaurant — Initialization & Validation
Before a restaurant opens, the staff ensures everything is prepped—tables set, menus printed, and ingredients checked. Similarly, when a new record is created in Salesforce:
- Default values are initialized.
- Validation rules check if the data meets business criteria.
- If anything’s missing or wrong, the “doors don’t open” — the record is rejected.
Taking and Reviewing the Order — Before Triggers & System Validations
When a customer places an order, the server double-checks for dietary restrictions. Then the chef reviews the ticket to ensure everything can be fulfilled.
In Salesforce:
- Before Triggers run to apply custom logic before saving.
- System Validations check required fields, data types, and unique constraints.
Together, these ensure everything is in order before proceeding.
Exploring Advanced Features
Checking for Duplicates & Saving the Record — Duplicate Rules & Save
The restaurant avoids preparing the same dish twice by checking for duplicate orders. Once confirmed, the chef starts cooking.
In Salesforce:
- Duplicate Rules prevent redundant records.
- If all checks pass, the record is saved to the database.
This is the core execution—the record is now officially in the system.
Feature Breakdown
Quality Control & Routing — After Triggers & Assignment Rules
Once the dish is ready, a final quality check ensures it meets standards before assigning it to the right table.
In Salesforce:
- After Triggers fire for any logic that depends on the saved record.
- Assignment Rules determine who should handle the record next (user, team, queue, etc.).
This ensures accuracy and that the record reaches the right person.
Choosing
Customer Notifications — Auto-Response & Workflow Rules
The server now informs the customer: "Your meal is on the way!" Likewise, Salesforce sends out automated notifications or updates.
- Auto-Response Rules send emails or messages instantly.
- Workflow Rules update records, create tasks, or trigger alerts.
These ensure real-time communication and seamless updates.
Real-World Impact
Handling Special Requests — Flows, Process Builder & Escalation
Some customers ask to customize their order. If there’s an issue, it might even go to the manager.
In Salesforce:
- Flows & Process Builder handle complex, conditional automation.
- Escalation Rules push urgent matters up the chain.
This helps Salesforce dynamically respond to business-specific needs and exceptions.
Final Thoughts and Author Insight
Final Delivery, VIPs & Follow-Up — Entitlements & Post-Commit Logic
The dish is served. VIPs get priority service. Later, the restaurant follows up for feedback.
In Salesforce:
- Entitlement Rules ensure priority records meet SLA timelines.
- Post-Commit Logic sends outbound messages or initiates batch jobs after the record is fully saved.
This is the final stage of execution—ensuring delivery, service, and feedback all happen efficiently.
Conclusion
Just like a fine dining experience, Salesforce’s order of execution ensures precision at every stage, from data validation to automation and final actions. Understanding this flow helps developers, admins, and consultants design scalable, efficient solutions while minimizing bugs and surprises.
For a detailed, technical breakdown, refer to the official Salesforce Order of Execution Documentation.
About the Author
yed Abdullah Zubair is a seasoned Salesforce Architect and Developer with extensive experience in implementing and optimizing Salesforce solutions for various organizations. With a deep understanding of Salesforce’s technical architecture, Syed has led numerous projects—from full implementations to complex data migrations. Passionate about empowering others, his insights aim to help developers, admins, and businesses make the most of Salesforce. Connect with him on LinkedIn to follow his work and expertise.
Other Blogs
Fresh insights, Dive into my latest Blog Post for innovative ideas and inspiration
.jpg)