What is Salesforce Platform?

Salesforce Platform is not a separate product that users log into; it is the underlying platform that enables Salesforce products to function and be customised. While products like Sales Cloud or Service Cloud provide ready-made features, Salesforce Platform is what allows customers to extend, customise, and connect those products to fit their own processes and solve specific business challenges.

This means businesses are not limited to out-of-the-box Salesforce functionality. They can create custom objects, automate workflows, build internal applications, and integrate external systems, all within the same secure Salesforce environment.

Thanks to its low-code capabilities, customers can connect with third-party systems or build their own apps and websites, with less time and complexity.

Salesforce Platform matters because it turns a “CRM” into a business system.

In practical terms, it allows organisations to:

• Build workflows that fit how teams work in reality

• Create custom applications that integrate deeply with Salesforce data

• Automate work without manual intervention

• Connect Salesforce to external systems like ERPs and data warehouses

• Deploy solutions that scale with the business

Without the Platform layer, that sort of flexibility simply isn't possible, especially across multiple business functions.

At a high level, Salesforce Platform provides tools and frameworks that let you shape both data and behaviour within Salesforce.

1. Data model flexibility – You can add custom objects, fields, and relationships to represent unique business information.

2. Automation tools – Click-based automations (e.g., Flow Builder) let you automate approvals and updates without code.

3. Programmatic extension – Developers can write Apex code or Lightning Web Components when deeper custom logic is needed.

4. Integration and APIs – Secure APIs let Salesforce talk to other systems, sync data, and trigger external workflows.

5. Security & governance – Built-in roles, profiles, and permission sets let you control access at a detailed level.

These elements let your Salesforce org move beyond “out-of-the-box CRM” into a platform that supports your entire customer ecosystem.

Salesforce Platform vs Salesforce

Salesforce (the brand) refers to the suite of product experiences like Sales Cloud and Service Cloud, but is also used interchangeably to refer to the core Salesforce CRM software.

Salesforce Platform refers to the underlying application layer that lets you extend all of those products through customisation, integration, and automation.

Salesforce Platform vs AppExchange apps

Platform capabilities let you build logic and models in-house.

AppExchange apps are pre-built packages you install to add functionality created by third parties.

Is Salesforce Platform the same as Salesforce CRM?

No. Salesforce CRM is a front-end product used for managing customer relationships and supporting sales and service teams. Salesforce Platform is the underlying technology layer that enables customisation and extension across all Salesforce products.

Do I need developers to use Salesforce Platform?

Not necessarily. Many effective automations can be built using point-and-click tools like Flow Builder. However, developers are essential when you need deeper logic or custom UI components.

Does Salesforce Platform include automation tools?

Yes. Tools like Flow Builder and Process Builder are part of the platform and let you automate business processes without code.

Can Salesforce Platform connect to external systems?

Yes. Salesforce Platform includes robust APIs and integration frameworks that let it securely connect with ERPs, marketing systems, and other enterprise applications.

Is Salesforce Platform included with Sales Cloud?

It depends on your licensing. Many Salesforce editions include platform capabilities, but specific access levels (e.g., developer tools) may vary. It’s best to review your licence entitlements before assuming full platform access.

Can I build mobile-friendly apps with Salesforce Platform?

Yes. Custom apps and Lightning pages built on the platform work in both Lightning Experience and the Salesforce mobile app.