Understanding Data Sources

The 'Data Source' setting is the foundation of any Avonni Data Component. It establishes the connection between your component and the underlying data, whether it's a Salesforce object, a Flow variable, or a custom query. The data source dictates the content and structure of your component's display.

Let's take a look at the options:

Manual Data Source

What it is

You directly input the data within the component configuration, typically as a table or list.

Best for

Simple data sets that don't change frequently, demos, or testing scenarios where you want complete control over the displayed information.

Example

A list of product names and prices for a static product catalog.


Variable Data Source

What it is

The component pulls its information from a Flow variable. This variable can be set earlier in the Flow, allowing for dynamic data that can change based on user input or other Flow logic.

Best for

It displays data collected or calculated during the Flow execution and needs to be shown to the user.

Example

A summary of user selections on a previous screen or a calculated value based on user inputs.


Query Data Source

What it is

The component retrieves data directly from your Salesforce org using a SOQL query. This is the most powerful and flexible option.

Best for

Dynamic data sets, real-time data updates, and complex data relationships where you must filter, sort, or aggregate information.

Example

Imagine a sales team managing leads in Salesforce. You want to display these leads in a Data Table within a Flow, and you want the table to update instantly whenever a lead's status changes.


Picklist Data Source

What it is

The component's options are sourced from a picklist field in your Salesforce org. This ensures data consistency and provides users with predefined choices.

Best for

Dropdown menus, multi-select lists, and any situation where you want to restrict user input to a specific set of values.

Example

A dropdown list of countries or a multi-select list of product categories


In conclusion, the Data Source setting is a crucial first step in configuring your Avonni Data Component. By understanding the difference between Manual and Variable Data Sources, and selecting the one that aligns with your data's nature and purpose, you can unlock the full potential of your components and create dynamic, data-driven experiences in Salesforce.

Experiment with these options to see which one best suits your needs. Don't hesitate to consult our detailed documentation or contact our support team for further assistance in tailoring your data sources to your specific use cases.

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