Chapter 2. Leveraging Platform Features

In this chapter, we will explore some key features of the Force.com platform that enable developers to build the application more rapidly, but also provide key features to the end users of the application. Using these features in a balanced way is the key to ensuring that you and your users not only get the best out of the platform today but continue to do so in the future as the platform evolves.

A key requirement for an enterprise application is the ability to customize and extend its functionality, as enterprise customers have varied and complex businesses. You should also keep in mind that as your ecosystem grows, you should ensure that your partner relationships are empowered with the correct level of integration options and that they need to interface their solutions with yours; the platform also plays a key role here as well.

As we expand our FormulaForce package, we will explore the following to better understand some of the decision making around platform alignment:

• Packaging and upgradable components
• Custom field features
• Security features
• Platform APIs
• Localization and translation
• Building customizable user interfaces
• E-mail customization with e-mail templates
• Workflow and flow
• Social features and mobile