How to troubleshoot blank lookup fields in Activities custom report type in Salesforce

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

Blank lookup fields in Salesforce Activities reports stem from platform limitations, not configuration issues. Learn how to get reliable cross-object activity data.

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SalesforceBlank lookup fields inActivities custom report types typically occur due to complex object relationships, field-level security restrictions, or data integrity problems. But here’s the thing – these troubleshooting efforts often reveal that the issue isn’t fixable within Salesforce’s reporting framework due to inherent platform limitations.

Instead of spending time troubleshooting unreliable lookup fields, here’s how to get guaranteed data population for your activity reports.

Bypass lookup field issues entirely using Coefficient

CoefficientSalesforce’seliminates the troubleshooting cycle by providing direct access to source data. Rather than fightingunreliable Activities custom report type, you get 100% reliable data population every time.

How to make it work

Step 1. Import Activities directly from source objects.

Use Coefficient’s “From Objects & Fields” method to pull Task and Event data directly, including all activity details and the WhatId/WhoId relationship fields. This bypasses the Activities report type entirely, eliminating lookup field population issues.

Step 2. Import related object data separately.

Pull Opportunity, Account, and Contact data in separate imports with all the fields you need. Include Opportunity Name, Amount, Stage, Account Name, Contact Name, and any custom fields that weren’t showing up in your Activities report.

Step 3. Create reliable relationships using spreadsheet functions.

Use VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, or INDEX/MATCH to join data using the relationship IDs. For example:to pull opportunity fields, orfor account information.

Step 4. Verify complete data population.

Check that all your lookup relationships are working by using formulas liketo count any remaining blank cells. With direct data access, you should have complete field population without the gaps that plague Activities reports.

Step 5. Set up automated refresh for ongoing reliability.

Schedule regular data updates so your reports stay current without manual intervention. Unlike the Activities report type that may randomly show blank fields, your data will be consistent every time it refreshes.

Get reliable activity data without the troubleshooting headaches

Build reportsThis approach provides consistent results without the unpredictability of Activities report types. You get complete field access, guaranteed data population, and reliable performance that eliminates the need for ongoing troubleshooting.that work reliably every time instead of fighting platform limitations.

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