Tableau Online Connector preview showing no data typically stems from API permission restrictions, field-level security settings, or object accessibility limitations in Salesforce . The connector’s opaque preview system makes it hard to diagnose the exact issue.
You can solve this problem by using a tool that provides transparent permission validation and real-time data preview. Here’s how to get visibility into your Salesforce data access.
Get transparent object preview and permission validation using Coefficient
Tableau’s preview system fails silently when permissions are restricted, leaving you guessing about the root cause. Coefficient immediately shows which objects and fields are accessible based on your user permissions, eliminating the guesswork.
How to make it work
Step 1. Test object accessibility with “From Objects & Fields”.
Connect Coefficient to your Salesforce org and select “From Objects & Fields.” You’ll see a comprehensive list of all accessible Standard Objects (Account, Contact, Lead, Opportunity, Campaign) and Custom Objects based on your actual permissions.
Step 2. Verify field-level permissions.
Select any object to view extensive field lists showing only the fields you can access. This eliminates confusion about Field-Level Security restrictions that cause Tableau’s preview to show empty results.
Step 3. Run a preview import to validate data retrieval.
Apply test filters and run a small import to confirm data quality and completeness. Unlike Tableau’s non-functional preview, you’ll see actual data samples from your Salesforce objects before committing to full sync.
Step 4. Document findings for your Salesforce admin.
Use the clear error messages and permission details to request specific access adjustments rather than broad permission requests. This speeds up resolution of underlying permission issues.
Stop guessing about Salesforce permissions
Tableau’s silent preview failures waste time and create frustration. With transparent permission validation and real-time data preview, you can quickly identify and resolve access issues instead of troubleshooting blind. Start testing your Salesforce object access today.