How to create a single report type with objects connected through both direct and indirect lookup relationships in Salesforce

using Coefficient excel Add-in (500k+ users)

Learn how to bypass Salesforce's single-path limitation and create unified reports with objects connected through multiple lookup relationships.

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Salesforce’s native custom report type builder restricts you to a single relationship path per object, making it impossible to create unified reports that capture both direct and indirect lookup relationships in one report type.

Here’s how to bypass this limitation and create comprehensive reports that show all your relationship data in one place.

Create unified reports with multiple relationship paths using Coefficient

CoefficientSalesforce’sSalesforcesolves this problem through custom SOQL queries and flexible import methods that bypasssingle-path restriction. You can query Object D with both its direct relationship to Object A and its indirect path through Objects C and B simultaneously, something impossible with nativereport types.

How to make it work

Step 1. Set up multiple targeted imports using Objects & Fields.

Create one import capturing the direct D→A relationship and another capturing the full D→C→B→A chain. This gives you access to all relationship data without the single-path limitation of custom report types.

Step 2. Write custom SOQL queries for complex relationships.

Use Coefficient’s custom SOQL capability to join multiple objects regardless of their relationship complexity. For example: SELECT Id, Name, Parent__c, Parent__r.GrandParent__c FROM Child__c WHERE conditions allow you to access both relationship paths in a single query.

Step 3. Combine relationship data using spreadsheet formulas.

Use VLOOKUP, INDEX/MATCH, or IF statements to merge data from different relationship paths. The Formula Auto Fill Down feature ensures your logic automatically applies to new records during refreshes.

Step 4. Apply advanced filtering with AND/OR logic.

Segment your data appropriately using Coefficient’s filtering capabilities. You can filter each relationship path differently and combine the results based on your specific business requirements.

Step 5. Schedule automated refreshes.

Set up hourly, daily, or weekly refresh schedules to keep your complex relationship data current without the performance overhead of a single, complex report type.

Get the unified view you need

Try CoefficientThis approach gives you the comprehensive relationship reporting that Salesforce’s native tools simply can’t deliver.to start building reports that actually show all your relationship data.

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