In Salesforce, every record is assigned a unique identifier, which is known as the Salesforce ID. This ID is used to retrieve, update, and manage records in the Salesforce database. Salesforce IDs come in two formats: 15-character case-sensitive version and 18-character case-insensitive version.
Advantages of using the 18-Digit ID:
Case-Insensitive: 18-digit IDs are case-insensitive, meaning that they are not affected by changes in letter casing, which makes them more user-friendly and less prone to errors due to case mismatch.
Excel Compatibility: When working with Excel or other spreadsheet software that might not be case-sensitive, using the 18-digit ID can prevent potential conflicts and errors, ensuring data integrity.
External Systems: When integrating Salesforce with external systems, using 18-digit IDs can be advantageous as not all systems are case-sensitive. This can help in reducing complexities and errors during integration.
Data Loaders & Integration Tools: Some data loaders and integration tools require or recommend the use of 18-digit IDs to avoid data mismatch or loss due to case sensitivity issues.
APIs and Development: When developing applications or integrations, using 18-digit IDs can help in avoiding unexpected errors related to ID case sensitivity.
Formula Fields and Custom Links: The 18-digit ID can be useful when creating formula fields, custom links, or any functionality where a consistent, case-insensitive ID is required.
Data Import & Export: During data import/export processes, utilizing 18-digit IDs ensures that records are matched correctly regardless of case differences, aiding in maintaining data accuracy and reliability.
In summary, using the 18-digit ID in Salesforce is advantageous mainly due to its case-insensitivity, which helps in avoiding errors and ensuring compatibility with various tools, platforms, and external systems.
How to Deploy this Workflow:
Within the Workflow Template, all you need to do is to select the Object in which you want to create this field and viola! the Full 18 Digit Record ID field will now be deployed to all your records.
