Custom Fields and Data Integrity in Salesforce

In this chapter, we'll revisit our lead import process to ensure no valuable data gets left behind.

Deleting Existing Leads

Note

This functionality only exists for certain privilege levels.

To start fresh, we'll delete the leads imported previously. While Salesforce doesn't offer a mass delete function in the main leads view, we can access this feature through Setup:

1. Click the cog icon in the upper-right corner and select Open Advanced Setup;
2. In the Quick Find search bar, type Mass Delete and choose Mass Delete Records;
3. Select Leads as the type of records to delete;
4. Apply any criteria (e.g., deleting all records except specific names) to narrow down the selection as needed.

This method allows you to efficiently remove multiple records without manually selecting each one, making it easy to reset your data for a clean import.

Creating a Custom Field

To preserve the Date Appointed information from our spreadsheet, we need to create a custom field within the Leads object:

1. Click the cog icon in the upper-right corner and select Open Advanced Setup;
2. Select Fields and Relationships under Object Manager for Leads;
3. Choose New Field and select Date as the field type;
4. Name the field Date Appointed to match the spreadsheet;
5. Save the new field, which will now appear within your lead form.

This new field ensures that Date Appointed data is stored directly in Salesforce and can be used moving forward.

Note

The new field might not be visible immediately. Salesforce can take time to process.

Customizing Drop-Down Lists (Picklists)

Another important customization step involves the Industry field. Because our imported data includes industry categories not listed in Salesforce (e.g., “Elder Care”), we can add these custom values to the existing picklist options:

1. Click the cog icon in the upper-right corner and select Open Advanced Setup;
2. In Object Manager search for the "Lead" object;
3. Go to Fields and Relationships and select Industry;
4. Scroll down to view the list of values within the Industry picklist;
5. Click New to add "Elder Care" or any other relevant term, ensuring it matches the spreadsheet exactly.

By customizing picklists, we maintain the integrity of our imported data without needing to adjust the original terms. This enables clear segmentation and future analysis based on accurate industry classifications.

Re-Import Leads with Full Data Integrity

Now that custom fields and picklist options are in place:

1. From the Sales>Leads page, click the Import button;
2. Begin the import process again, mapping each column carefully.

With all fields now correctly mapped, Salesforce will accept the full dataset, providing you with a rich set of leads without omitting valuable information.

By incorporating custom fields and flexible picklists, you can maximize data completeness, ensuring Salesforce serves as a comprehensive, actionable resource for EcoMarket Deliveries.