Query VS Variable

When building your Salesforce flows with Avonni components, selecting the right data source is crucial for performance and flexibility. Avonni offers two main options:

How it Works

You fetch data using standard Salesforce Flow elements (like "Get Records") and store it in a variable. Then, you connect this variable to your Avonni component (e.g., Data Table, List).

Best for

  • Simpler use cases where you need data from a single object or a few related objects.

  • When you have existing Flow logic for fetching data and want to reuse it.

  • If you need to manipulate or transform the data before displaying it.

Limitations

  • Limited to 50,000 records retrieved by the "Get Records" element.

  • Not suitable for complex queries with multiple objects or conditions.

How it Works

You write a Salesforce Object Query Language (SOQL) query directly within the Avonni component. This query fetches the data you need.

Best for

  • Complex queries involving multiple objects, relationships, or filters.

  • When you need to retrieve more than 50,000 records.

  • If you want to create dynamic, interactive components that filter data in real-time based on user input.

Considerations

  • Requires basic knowledge of SOQL.

  • Might be less intuitive for beginners than using variables.

Dynamic Query Tutorials

NameDescriptionIllustration

Data tables that automatically filter and update when selections are made

Interactive tabs display filtered data based on selected time period (quarter).

Learn how two comboboxes dynamically filter data table results.

Learn how to select an account from a list dynamically filters related contacts.

Quick Comparison

FeatureVariable Data SourceQuery Data Source

Data Source

Flow variable

SOQL query

Record Limit

50,000

No limit

Query Complexity

Limited

High

Real-Time Filtering

Not directly

Yes

Ease of Use (for beginners)

Easier

May require learning curve

Example: Displaying Contacts

  • Variable: Use a "Get Records" element to fetch contacts based on certain criteria (e.g., Account Name). Store the results in a variable and connect it to an Avonni List component.

  • Query: Write a SOQL query directly in the Avonni List component: SELECT Id, Name, Email FROM Contact WHERE Account.Name = 'Acme'

Which to Choose?

To make the best decision for your specific use case, consider the complexity of your data needs, the amount of data you need to retrieve, and your comfort level with SOQL.

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