How to Connect Salesforce to PostgreSQL

Salesforce is the world’s leading customer relationship management (CRM) platform, while PostgreSQL is a powerful open-source relational database management system. Integrating these two systems is crucial for businesses looking to streamline their data workflows and gain a comprehensive view of their customers. In this guide, we’ll explore the top methods for connecting Salesforce to PostgreSQL, enabling you to automate data synchronization and enhance your reporting capabilities.

Advantages of Connecting Salesforce to PostgreSQL

• Unify customer data for a comprehensive view: By integrating Salesforce with PostgreSQL, you can combine your CRM data with other customer data stored in your database. This provides a 360-degree view of your customers, enabling better decision-making and more personalized interactions.
• Automate data synchronization for real-time updates: Connecting these systems allows you to automate the flow of data between them. This means that any updates made in Salesforce will be automatically reflected in PostgreSQL, and vice versa. By eliminating the need for manual data entry, you save time and ensure that your data is always up-to-date.
• Enhance reporting capabilities with combined data: With Salesforce and PostgreSQL integrated, you can create more comprehensive and insightful reports. By combining data from both systems, you can gain a deeper understanding of your customers, sales performance, and other key metrics. This enables data-driven decision making and helps you identify areas for improvement.
• Reduce manual data entry errors: Automating data synchronization between Salesforce and PostgreSQL minimizes the risk of human error that comes with manual data entry. By eliminating the need for employees to manually transfer data between systems, you ensure that your data remains accurate and consistent across both platforms.

Connect Salesforce to PostgreSQL: 3 methods

Connecting Salesforce with PostgreSQL is essential for automating data workflows and enhancing business intelligence. This guide explores various solutions to achieve efficient data transfers between these platforms.

Solution Name	Ideal Applications
Coefficient	Best for non-technical users who need a straightforward, no-code setup to connect Salesforce to Google Sheets or Excel. Coefficient offers a user-friendly interface that enables easy data syncing without any coding required.
Skyvia	Ideal for businesses needing flexible, no-code data synchronization and advanced transformation capabilities. Skyvia provides a wide range of connectors and allows for custom data mappings and transformations.
DBSync	Suitable for organizations requiring continuous real-time synchronization and customizable workflows for complex data integrations. DBSync offers bi-directional data sync and allows for granular control over data flows.

How to Connect Salesforce to PostgreSQL

Method 1: Coefficient, No-Code Integration

Coefficient is a no-code solution that enables users to easily connect their Salesforce data to Google Sheets or Excel. With its user-friendly interface and automated data sync capabilities, Coefficient is an ideal choice for businesses looking for a straightforward way to integrate their CRM and spreadsheet data.

Features

1. Automated Data Sync: With Coefficient, you can set up automated data syncs between Salesforce and your spreadsheet. You can choose the frequency of these syncs (hourly, daily, or weekly) to ensure that your data is always up-to-date. This eliminates the need for manual data exports and imports.
2. Custom Data Import: Coefficient enables you to customize your data imports by selecting specific fields, applying filters, and sorting your data. You can do all of this without writing any SQL queries, making it simple to get the exact data you need in your spreadsheet.
3. Integration with Multiple Data Sources: In addition to Salesforce, Coefficient supports integrations with various other data sources, such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, HubSpot, and more. This enables you to combine data from multiple systems into a single spreadsheet for comprehensive reporting and analysis.

Pros and cons:

• Pros:
  • Simple, no-code setup process
  • Automated data syncs keep your information up-to-date
  • Affordable pricing plans for businesses of all sizes

• Cons:
  • Some advanced features, such as scheduled automations, are only available on paid plans. However, Coefficient’s pricing is still very competitive compared to other solutions.

How to Connect Salesforce to PostgreSQL with Coefficient

Step 1: Install the Coefficient

For Google Sheets

Open a new or existing Google Sheet, navigate to the Extensions tab, and select Add-ons > Get add-ons.

In the Google Workspace Marketplace, search for “Coefficient.”

Follow the prompts to grant necessary permissions.

Launch Coefficient from Extensions > Coefficient > Launch.

Coefficient will open on the right-hand side of your spreadsheet.

For Microsoft Excel

Open Excel from your desktop or in Office Online. Click ‘File’ > ‘Get Add-ins’ > ‘More Add-Ins.’

Type “Coefficient” in the search bar and click ‘Add.’

Follow the prompts in the pop-up to complete the installation.

Once finished, you will see a “Coefficient” tab in the top navigation bar. Click ‘Open Sidebar’ to launch Coefficient.

Step 2. Import data from Salesforce into Your Spreadsheet

Navigate to Coefficient’s main menu and select ‘Import from…’

Scroll down until you find Salesforce in the menu.

There are several ways to import data from Salesforce with Coefficient.

1. Import from an existing report
2. Import from objects and fields
3. Import using SOQL

In this example, we’ll select ‘From Objects & Fields.’

If this is your first time connecting to Salesforce, you’ll need to authorize Coefficient to access your data.

Click ‘Authorize’ and follow the prompts to continue.

After you’ve granted Coefficient access to your Salesforce account, it will redirect you back to Excel to create your import.

Select an object from the menu and click ‘Next.’

Click ‘Select Fields’ to reveal a list of fields to add to this import.

Select the fields you want to import by scrolling through the menu. You can also search for each in the menu.

After making your selections, click ‘Done Selecting Fields’ to continue.  

Note: You can add filters to your import as needed.  

Name your import and click ‘Import’ to continue.

Your Salesforce import will automatically populate your spreadsheet.

Step 3. Export Data from Your Spreadsheet to PostgreSQL

Before starting, make sure you’ve connected to PostgreSQ

Then, navigate to Coefficient’s menu. Click “Export to…”

Select PostgreSQL from the menu.

Choose the tab in your workbook that contains the data you want to export and specify the header row that contains the database field headers.

Specify the table in your database where you want to insert the data and choose the appropriate action (Insert, Update, Delete).

omplete the field mappings for the export. Ensure that primary keys or ID fields are mapped if required for the action you are performing.

Confirm your settings and click “Export” to proceed.

Highlight the specific rows in your sheet that you want to export, or choose to export all rows.

Review your settings and follow the prompts to push your data back to PostgreSQL.

Method 2: Skyvia

Skyvia is a cloud-based data integration platform that offers a no-code solution for connecting Salesforce to PostgreSQL. With its wide range of connectors and advanced data transformation capabilities, Skyvia is well-suited for businesses looking for a flexible and powerful integration tool.

Features:

1. No-code setup with extensive app support: Skyvia provides a user-friendly, no-code interface for setting up connections between various applications, including Salesforce and PostgreSQL. It supports a wide range of popular business apps, making it easy to integrate your data from multiple sources.
2. Advanced scheduling and transformation capabilities: With Skyvia, you can set up advanced scheduling options for your data synchronization tasks. You can also apply custom data transformations using the platform’s visual data mapping interface, allowing you to manipulate your data without writing code.
3. Real-time data synchronization: Skyvia enables real-time data synchronization between Salesforce and PostgreSQL, ensuring that your data is always up-to-date across both systems. This is particularly useful for businesses that need to make decisions based on the most current information.

Pros and cons:

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface suitable for non-technical users
• Powerful data transformation capabilities
• Wide range of supported applications
• Cloud-based for easy deployment and scalability

Cons:

• Limited support for NoSQL databases
• Restricted customer support options (no 24/7 phone support)
• Can be costly for high-volume data transfers

How to Connect Salesforce to PostgreSQL with Skyvia

1. Sign Up: Create a Skyvia account at https://skyvia.com/.
2. Set Up Connections:
   • In Skyvia dashboard, go to “Connections” and click “Add Connection”.
   • Set up Salesforce connection: Choose Salesforce, authenticate, and name the connection.
   • Set up PostgreSQL connection: Select PostgreSQL, enter database credentials, and name the connection.

1. Create Integration:
   • Go to “Integration” and click “New Integration”.
   • Select Salesforce as source and PostgreSQL as target.

1. Configure Data Flow:
   • Choose Salesforce objects and fields to sync.
   • Map Salesforce fields to PostgreSQL table columns.
   • Apply any necessary data transformations.

1. Set Sync Schedule:
   • Choose between one-time, recurring, or real-time sync.

1. Save and Run:
   • Save the integration and run initial sync.
   • Monitor the process and check for any errors.

1. Maintain:
   • Regularly review sync logs and optimize as needed.

Method 3: DBSync

DBSync is an enterprise-grade data integration platform that specializes in real-time, bi-directional data synchronization. It offers customizable workflows and continuous data updates, making it a good fit for organizations with complex data integration needs.

Features:

1. Real-time, bi-directional data sync: DBSync enables real-time, bi-directional data synchronization between Salesforce and PostgreSQL. This means that any changes made in either system will be automatically reflected in the other, ensuring that your data is always consistent and up-to-date.
2. Customizable workflows: With DBSync, you can create custom workflows to control how your data is synchronized between Salesforce and PostgreSQL. This allows you to tailor your data integration to meet your specific business requirements.
3. Continuous data flow updates: DBSync continuously monitors your Salesforce and PostgreSQL systems for changes and automatically syncs any updates in real-time. This ensures that your data is always current and eliminates the need for manual data transfers.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  • Real-time data synchronization keeps your information always up-to-date
  • Bi-directional sync capabilities ensure data consistency across both systems
  • Customizable workflows allow for tailored data integration to meet specific needs

• Cons:
  • Setting up DBSync may require more technical expertise compared to no-code solutions
  • Some advanced features may come at a higher cost compared to other integration platforms

How to Connec Salesforce to PostgreSQL with DBSync

1. Sign Up and Access DBSync:
   • Visit https://www.mydbsync.com/ and click on “Start Free Trial” or “Request Demo”.
   • Create an account by providing necessary details.
   • Verify your email and log in to the DBSync dashboard.

1. Set Up Salesforce Connection:
   • In the DBSync dashboard, navigate to “Connections” in the top menu.
   • Click “Create Connection” or “New Connection”.
   • Select “Salesforce” as the connection type.
   • Choose the appropriate Salesforce edition and environment (Production/Sandbox).
   • Click “Authorize” and log in to your Salesforce account in the popup window.
   • Grant necessary permissions for DBSync to access your Salesforce org.
   • Once authenticated, name your Salesforce connection and save.

1. Set Up PostgreSQL Connection:
   • Still in the “Connections” section, click “Create Connection” again.
   • Select “PostgreSQL” as the connection type.
   • Provide your PostgreSQL connection details:
     • Host name or IP address
     • Port number (default 5432)
     • Database name
     • Schema name
     • Username and password
       • Configure SSL settings if required by your PostgreSQL setup.
       • Test the connection to ensure it’s working correctly.
       • Name your PostgreSQL connection and save.

1. Create a New Sync Project:
   • Click on “Sync” in the top menu of the DBSync dashboard.
   • Select “Create Sync” or “New Sync Project”.
   • Choose “Salesforce to PostgreSQL” as your sync type.

1. Configure Source (Salesforce):
   • Select your Salesforce connection as the source.
   • Choose the Salesforce objects you want to sync (e.g., Account, Contact, Opportunity).
   • Select the fields from each object that you want to synchronize.
   • Set up any necessary filters to limit the data being synced.

1. Configure Target (PostgreSQL):
   • Select your PostgreSQL connection as the target.
   • Map each Salesforce object to a corresponding PostgreSQL table.
   • If tables don’t exist, configure DBSync to create them automatically.
   • Map Salesforce fields to PostgreSQL columns, defining data types and constraints.

1. Set Up Data Transformations:
   • Use DBSync’s transformation tools to modify data during the sync process:
     • Apply built-in functions for data cleansing and standardization.
     • Create calculated fields or derived values.
     • Set up lookups or joins if you need to combine data from multiple objects.

1. Configure Bi-Directional Sync (if needed):
   • Enable bi-directional sync for the desired objects and fields.
   • Set up conflict resolution rules for handling simultaneous updates.
   • Configure field-level sync directions (Salesforce to PostgreSQL, PostgreSQL to Salesforce, or both).

1. Set Up Sync Schedule and Triggers:
   • Configure the sync frequency:
     • Real-time sync using Salesforce streaming API.
     • Scheduled sync at specific intervals.
     • Event-driven sync based on database triggers or API calls.
       • Set up any conditional logic for sync triggering.

1. Configure Error Handling and Notifications:
   • Set up error logging and reporting preferences.
   • Configure email notifications for sync status and errors.
   • Define retry logic for failed sync operations.

1. Test and Deploy:
   • Run a test sync to verify the integration is working correctly.
   • Monitor the initial sync process and check for any errors or data discrepancies.
   • Gradually ramp up sync frequency and volume in a controlled manner.

Connect Salesforce to PostgreSQL From Your Spreadsheet

Integrating Salesforce with PostgreSQL is essential for businesses looking to streamline their data workflows, enhance reporting capabilities, and gain a comprehensive view of their customers. By automating data synchronization and eliminating manual data entry, you can save time, reduce errors, and make data-driven decisions with confidence.

Ready to take your data integration to the next level? Get started with Coefficient today and experience the power of no-code data synchronization between Salesforce and PostgreSQL. With its user-friendly interface, automated data syncs, and affordable pricing plans, Coefficient makes it easy for businesses of all sizes to connect their data and gain valuable insights.

Get Started with Coefficient