Salesforce Inspector Reloaded: New Version Highlights (2024)

Introduction

If you are a salesforce professional, essentially a Salesforce Developer, then Salesforce Inspector is probably the most essential time-saving solution. Salesforce Inspector is an excellent -Chrome extension that allows you to interact with data and explore the setup sections. This works more effectively than the usual standard navigation. 

In this article, we will discuss the details of another extension, Salesforce Inspector Reloaded. We will also discuss the other additional capabilities that have been made available with relevant input from the Salesforce community.

Salesforce Inspector Reloaded (SIR) refers to an open-source Chrome extension that is maintained by one of the active development teams that are not officially supported by Salesforce. The extension gives you quick access to API requests, setup shortcuts, data import or export, and metadata search and download. The best part is that you can do this all from the comfort of your browser. 

SIR is crucial because it helps enhance the productivity of all the Salesforce administrators and developers. Salesforce Inspector is available as a browser extension on several browsers like Chrome and Firefox.This tool further improves the experience of the salesforce org.

New Features in the June 2024 Update

The new Salesforce Inspector extension (1.23 version) comes with several core features that can help enhance your productivity as a Salesforce Administrator or developer. These include:

Enhanced User Interface

This particular feature allows you to include new custom fields on all the Dynamic Forms-enabled pages in Salesforce. Previously, you could add only those fields that already exist in the page layout. With this latest update, you can now add new custom fields directly. This helps provide increased flexibility in customizing fields to align with business requirements.

Advanced Data Export and Import

Data exchange between outside sources and Salesforce is another function of Salesforce Inspector in the form of a Chrome Extension. You can also format the exported data into Excel, JSON, or CSV files further. As a user, you can also move any kind of deleted data from the recycle bin or an archived record.

Improved Field Management

The field explorer feature of Salesforce Inspector Reloaded is crucial because it enables users to access various comprehensive field details. This further includes storing hidden values for recording purposes, further leading to improved field management. 

Enhanced Security Features

The latest update of Salesforce Inspector also introduces enhanced security features to ensure the cyber safety and integrity of your data. This includes improved encryption methods for data at rest and in transit, including more robust user authentication protocols. The update provides detailed audit logs and real-time alerts for any unauthorized access attempts. 

Integration with External Tools

The latest Salesforce Inspector extension enables efficient integration with various external tools and platforms. This particular feature enables you to connect Salesforce with other business applications. Ultimately, it facilitates better data transfer and synchronization. 

Automation and Workflow Enhancements

You get introduced to powerful automation and workflow enhancements in the latest extension of Salesforce Inspector Reloaded. You can set up automated data entries, updates, and other task assignments with the new automation features. Such enhanced workflow capabilities enable you to create a more complex, multi-step process that you can maintain and manage easily. 

Detailed Reporting and Analytics

Users can now generate more detailed and customizable reports with Salesforce Inspector to provide deeper insights into their data. Advanced filtering options and new visualization and performance testing tools help in better understanding trends and performance metrics. These improvements make it easier to track key performance indicators and make data-driven decisions that drive business success.

Enhanced Support for Custom Objects

The latest update allows for more efficient creation, management, and integration of custom objects within Salesforce. Enhanced customization options enable users to customize their Salesforce environment to better meet unique business needs. This ultimately ensures that all relevant data is captured and easily accessible to all users.

User and Role Management Improvements

The new features provide more granular control over user permissions and roles. This enables all administrators to assign and manage access rights with greater precision. It also ensures that sensitive data is protected and that you can perform your tasks efficiently. Enhanced user management tools also streamline all kinds of onboarding processes and improve security and compliance.

Security and Privacy

The Salesforce Inspector browser extension or plugin comes with enhanced security protocols. It can communicate between the user's web browser and all the other Salesforce servers directly. No data is sent to other third parties or persisted outside of the servers after you decide to leave the Salesforce Inspector pages. It helps ensure privacy as you navigate the different features of the browser extension. 

The extension further communicates via the official Salesforce web service APIs. It is usually on behalf of the user currently signed in to the system. This means that the inspector can access all the data and features the user have been granted access to in Salesforce.

All Salesforce API calls from the Inspector re-use the access session or token the browser uses to access the extension. The Salesforce Inspector requires permission to read browser cookie information for various domains to acquire the same access token. 

Installation

You must learn about the installation process before knowing how to use Salesforce Inspector Reloaded. Let’s delve deeper and learn more about these browser stores overview:

1. Chrome Web Store:

• Visit the Chrome Web Store once your browser is up and running. This usually serves as a central point from which you can install several Chrome extensions. 
• Enter “Salesforce Inspector” in the search bar on the same Chrome Web Store. The extension should feature in your respective search outcomes. 
• Click on Salesforce Inspector to be redirected to its specific page. Then, click on the button called “Add to Chrome.” This will redirect you to the confirmation dialogue box.
• Later, click on “Add extension". Salesforce Inspector Reloaded is now added to your Chrome extensions and then ready for use.

2. Firefox Browser Add-ons

Salesforce Inspector Reloaded is designed specifically for all kinds of Salesforce developers, administrators, and users. It helps them navigate and debug various Salesforce applications. It provides numerous tools and functionalities that enable users to manipulate Salesforce data by analyzing them in real-time. The steps to install Salesforce in Firefox browser include:

1. Open Firefox Add-ons Site

• Launch the respective Firefox browser and go to the Firefox Add-ons site.

2. Search for Salesforce Inspector

• In the search bar, type "Salesforce Inspector." The extension should appear in different types of search results.

3. Select and Install the Extension

• Click on the Salesforce Inspector listing to open its dedicated page.

4. Add to Firefox

• Click the "Add to Firefox" button, which will prompt a confirmation dialog box.

5. Confirm Installation

• Click "Add" in the confirmation dialog box to complete the installation process.

6. Extension Ready to Use

• Once added, Salesforce Inspector Reloaded will be available in your Firefox extensions, ready to assist Salesforce developers, administrators, and users in navigating and debugging various Salesforce applications. It provides real-time data manipulation and analysis tools.

3. Edge Add-ons

1. Open Microsoft Edge Add-ons Store

• Launch your Microsoft Edge browser and go to the Edge Add-ons store.

2. Search for Salesforce Inspector

• Enter "Salesforce Inspector" in the search bar. The extension should appear in the search results.

3. Select and Install the Extension

• Click on the Salesforce Inspector listing to open its specific page.

4. Add to Edge

• Click the "Get" button on the extension's page, which will prompt a confirmation dialog box.

5. Confirm Installation

• Click "Add extension" in the confirmation dialog box to complete the installation process.

6. Extension Ready to Use

• Once added, Salesforce Inspector Reloaded will be available in your Edge extensions, ready to assist Salesforce developers, administrators, and users in navigating and debugging various Salesforce applications. It provides real-time data manipulation and data analysis tools.

Beta Version

The beta version of Salesforce Inspector Reloaded is available on Chrome. The best part is that it comes packed with brand new functionalities and contributions from the Salesforce community.

Here is what comes with the Chrome web store beta version of Salesforce Inspector.

• Upsert and Delete Custom Metadata: This functionality allows you to mass-upsert and delete Custom Metadata effortlessly.
• Org Tab: It enables you to access vital org and instance information efficiently.
• Undelete Records: You can explore the "Undelete" option from the data import page conveniently.
• Create New Records: The "New" button on the SObject tab makes it easier to create new records from the popup directly. 
• Salesforce SObject Documentation Links: These links come directly within the extension for comprehensive information.
• Download Event Log Files: You can download event log files with a simple click, which helps streamline your log analysis process.
• Field API Name on Record Page: It displays various field API names, which provides a clearer picture of your respective data.
• Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps Support: You can enjoy efficient support for all domains protected by Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps.

How to Use Salesforce Inspector Reloaded

You can navigate the features of Salesforce Inspector Reloaded once you have installed the extension successfully. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the Salesforce Inspector extension.

Navigating the New Interface

Open Salesforce in your respective Chrome browser. Go to any record page after you sign in. Click on the Salesforce Inspector icon on the toolbar on the top right.

Quick Data Search and Edit

Navigate to the record page in Salesforce to inspect a specific record. Select ‘Show all data’ on the extension’s icon. This will display all the values and fields for that particular record.

Exporting and Importing Data

Salesforce Inspector can assist with all kinds of data import and export tasks and activities. Go to any list view, click on the Salesforce Inspector icon, and then select ‘Data Export.’ It enables you to export the data as a CSV file.

Select ‘Data Import’ from the Salesforce Inspector menu for importing data. Then, prepare your CSV file with the required fields, and follow the specific instructions.

Managing Fields and Security Settings

Salesforce Inspector Reloaded provides an easy way if you are a developer and want to run Apex code. Select the ‘Show Apex Execute’ icon from the Salesforce Inspector menu. You can write or paste your Apex programming code at your convenience and click on ‘Execute’. This allows quick debugging and testing of code.

Integrating with Other Tools

Salesforce Inspector can perform mass updates, inserts, upserts, deletes, and more tasks. All you need to do is select ‘Mass Update Records’ from the Salesforce Inspector menu. Write a SOQL query to specify the records you want to update the changes. You can also integrate the extension with other tools as per your choice.

Troubleshooting

Like other browser extensions, Salesforce Inspector Reloaded has its share of issues. Here is a list of the common issues you may face on this extension, and its respective solutions and tips for smooth operation.

Poor Data Quality

• Establish data quality guidelines.
• Use validation rules and conduct regular data cleansing.

Ignoring User Training

• Plan comprehensive training, allow time for adjustment, and focus on challenging features.

Neglecting Data Security

• Use two-factor authentication, role-based access controls, encryption, regular security audits, and review permissions frequently.

Not Using Custom Fields and Objects

• Leverage custom fields and objects, keep up with technical developments, and utilize automation tools like workflows and process builders.

Poorly Designing Workflow Rules

• Define trigger criteria, use descriptive names, avoid unnecessary rules, and test before deployment.

Underutilizing Salesforce Automation Features

• Identify automation opportunities, consult stakeholders, and use AI tools like Salesforce Einstein Analytics.

Not Clearing Up Old Data

• Establish data retention policies, regularly audit data, use data management tools, and train employees on data management.

Failure to Review and Update Processes

• Review and update processes regularly, solicit feedback, use analytics to identify improvements, and train employees on new processes.

Contributions

You can always contribute to Salesforce Inspector Reloaded, which helps enhance its functionality and improve user experience. Here are the development guidelines that can help you get involved in the process:

• Code of Conduct: Follow the project's code of conduct to maintain a respectful and collaborative environment.
• Issue Reporting: Report bugs or request features by opening an issue on the project's GitHub repository.
• Code Contributions: Fork the repository, create a new branch, and submit pull requests for code changes.

Chrome Development

• Setup: Clone the repository and go to the project directory.
• Load Unpacked Extension: Go to chrome://extensions/ and enable Developer mode. Click on "Load unpacked" and select the project directory.
• Debugging: Use Chrome Developer Tools to debug and test your changes.

Firefox Development

• Setup: Clone the repository and visit the project directory.
• Load Temporary Add-on: In Firefox, go to about:debugging#/runtime/this-firefox and click on "Load Temporary Add-on." Select any file in the project directory to load the extension.
• Debugging: Use Firefox Developer Tools to debug and test your changes.

Unit Tests

• Writing Tests: Ensure all new features and bug fixes are covered by unit tests. Use a testing framework compatible with the project.
• Running Tests: Execute tests locally to ensure they pass before submitting a pull request.

Linting

• Code Style: Follow the project's coding standards and style guides. Use linters to maintain consistent code quality.
• Running Linting Tools: Run the project's linting tools to check for and fix code style issues.

Release Process

The release process associated with Salesforce Inspector Reloaded is straightforward. Here is a detailed look into it:

Chrome Release Steps

1. Prepare Codebase

• Ensure all code changes are merged into the main branch.
• Run all tests and linting tools to verify code quality.
• Update the version number in the manifest.json file according to the release version.

2. Build Extension

• Run the build script to generate the production-ready extension files.
• Ensure that the dist folder contains all necessary files for the extension.

3. Upload to Chrome Web Store

• Go to the Chrome Web Store Developer Dashboard.
• Select the Salesforce Inspector Reloaded extension.
• Click on "Upload new package" and select the .zip file containing the contents of the dist folder.
• Provide release notes for the new version.
• Submit the update for review.

4. Post-Release Verification

• Download and test the extension from the Chrome Web Store to ensure it works correctly once the update is published. 
• Monitor user feedback for any issues or bugs.

Firefox Release Steps

1. Prepare Codebase

• Ensure all code changes are merged into the main branch.
• Run all tests and linting tools to verify code quality.
• Update the version number in the manifest.json file according to the release version.

2. Build Extension

• Run the build script to generate the production-ready extension files.
• Ensure that the dist folder contains all necessary files for the extension.

3. Upload to Firefox Add-ons

• Go to the Firefox Add-ons Developer Hub.
• Select the Salesforce Inspector Reloaded extension.
• Click on "Upload new version" and select the .zip file containing the contents of the dist folder.
• Provide release notes for the new version.
• Submit the update for review.

4. Post-Release Verification

• Once the update is published, download and test the extension from the Firefox Add-ons store to ensure it works correctly.
• Monitor user feedback for any issues or bugs.

Design Principles

The design principles of Salesforce Inspector Reloaded are divided into core design values and a user-centric design approach. The guidelines include:

• Stay inactive completely until the user explicitly interacts with it. The tool may break Salesforce functionality since users usually rely on monkey patching and internal APIs. This involves ensuring you cannot break Salesforce just by having the tool installed.
• The browser extension is available for manual ad-hoc tasks only. The tool can help administrators and developers interact with Salesforce Inspector in the browser where enabling automation is a non-goal. 
• Features should be intuitive and discoverable to enhance user experience, but here, efficiency is more important than discoverability. It means hiding all advanced features and making the primary features available. 
• Automatically provide contextual information without overwhelming the user. Information that is presented automatically is more useful than information you need to explicitly request.
• Provide easier access to the raw Salesforce API to enhance the interaction in a way that does not break the core use case.
• Ensure that the Salesforce Inspector Reloaded works for as many users as possible. This applies to all system administrators, standard users, and the ones with personal accounts, multi-currencies, large data volumes, etc. 

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Conclusion

The best part about using Salesforce Inspector Reloaded is that it is an open source and free to use browser. However, it is not an official Salesforce product, which means the extension is not officially tested or documented. 

That is why the source code and support requests should be directed to the project repository. The Salesforce Inspector extension is maintained by the community actively, so it is necessary to take a look at the release notes when a new version is deployed. But one thing is for sure that Salesforce will continue to be a dominant force in the cloud computing space. This particular browser extension will innovate and expand its offerings to provide cloud-based solutions beyond CRM. This may relate to artificial intelligence, analytics, and application development platforms.

You can undertake various courses under JanBask Training to learn more about Salesforce Inspector Reloaded. 

Still having doubts? Drop us a comment or give us a call and our experts will reach out to you with the best solutions.

FAQs

Q1. What do you mean by Salesforce Lightning Inspection?

The Salesforce Lightning Inspector refers to a Google Chrome DevTools extension that enables you to explore the component tree, profile component performance, and inspect component attributes. The extension also helps you to understand the sequence of event handling and firing processes.

Q2. What are the benefits of Salesforce Inspector Reloaded?

The Salesforce Inspector Reloaded aims to boost productivity and cut down on manual work. It lets you inspect all kinds of data and metadata right from the Salesforce UI. This makes configuration, development, and integration jobs easier and quicker than ever.

Q3. Who can use Salesforce Inspector Reloaded?

Salesforce developers and administrators can use Salesforce Inspector Reloaded. It offers a range of functionalities to these respective users. It enables them to simplify the data export and import process. They can also access comprehensive details and view all field values for a record through the same browser extension.