Declarative vs. Programmatic: Choosing the Right Solution in Salesforce

Declarative vs. Programmatic Development in Salesforce: Choosing the Right Approach

In Salesforce, there are two main approaches to customizing applications: declarative (point-and-click) and programmatic (code-based). Each approach has its strengths and ideal use cases, depending on the complexity, business needs, and future maintainability. This guide helps you understand both methods, providing practical examples and clear guidance on when to use which approach.

Why Understanding Declarative vs. Programmatic Matters

Choosing the right development method is crucial for resource optimization and long-term success. Declarative solutions often reduce development time and are accessible to admins, while programmatic solutions offer deeper customization and performance for complex needs.

Declarative Development in Salesforce

Declarative development uses Salesforce’s no-code tools like Flows, Validation Rules, and Approval Processes to automate tasks and enforce business logic. Admins can design powerful automation without writing code.

For example, using a Record-Triggered Flow, you could automate lead assignment or create a follow-up task when an Opportunity moves to the “Closed Won” stage—all through clicks, not code.

Benefits of declarative tools:

• Easier to build and maintain

• Requires no developer involvement

• Visual interfaces for better collaboration

Programmatic Development in Salesforce

Programmatic development uses Apex, Lightning Web Components (LWC), and Visualforce to deliver solutions that require fine-tuned control or handle advanced logic. These tools are suited for developers with coding expertise.

For instance, if you need to update related child records based on complex logic when an Opportunity changes, an Apex Trigger can handle it efficiently.

Benefits of programmatic tools:

• High flexibility for unique use cases

• Suitable for external integrations

• Better performance for large-scale operations

When to Use Declarative Solutions

Use declarative tools for:

• Automating simple workflows

• Validating form submissions

• Designing guided user experiences

• Tasks that require frequent admin adjustments

Example: A Screen Flow that helps onboard new customers and sends a welcome email after updating records.

When to Use Programmatic Solutions

Use programmatic tools for:

• Multi-record updates with complex logic

• Integrating external APIs

• Custom user interfaces with LWC

• Real-time processing requirements

Example: A trigger that updates related records, performs calculations, and sends notifications based on changes to a Case.

Comparing the Two Approaches

Best Practices for Choosing Between Them

1. Start Simple: Begin with declarative tools and scale up to Apex if the logic becomes too complex.

2. Think Maintenance: Choose declarative for easier admin-level changes; use Apex if developers will maintain it.

3. Consider Performance: Apex is faster and more powerful for large data sets.

4. Combine Where Needed: Use Flows for simple logic and Apex for backend complexity in the same process.

Hybrid Solution Example

Imagine a lead assignment process: you can use a Flow to update lead fields and then call an Apex class to notify the correct team based on dynamic logic. This way, you combine both strengths.

Conclusion

Declarative and programmatic development are not rivals—they’re teammates. Flows and validation rules offer quick wins with low code, while Apex and LWC bring unmatched customization. The best Salesforce solutions often mix both. Evaluate your scenario, future needs, and available resources before deciding—and remember, the right approach is the one that keeps things working smoothly without overengineering.

Let your process guide your tool—not the other way around.