Salesforce Platform Cache: Enhanced App Speed & Efficiency

Platform cache is a type of memory storage that allows you to store and access data across different applications and sessions on a particular computing platform. Unlike general-purpose caches, which can be used in a variety of environments, platform caches are tailored to the specific needs and architecture of the platform they are used on.

Key Components of Platform Cache:

• Memory: This is the primary component where data is temporarily stored for quick access. The memory in platform caches is usually faster than typical data storage methods.
• Storage: In some cases, platform cache might also involve a storage component, where data can be persistently stored for longer periods and accessed quickly when needed.

Importance of Caching in Modern Computing

• Enhanced Performance: The primary advantage of caching, including Platform Cache, is the significant boost it provides to application performance. By storing data in a cache, applications can access this data much faster than if they had to retrieve it from primary storage sources like databases. This speed is crucial for performance-intensive applications and for enhancing the user experience.
• Reduced Latency: Caching minimizes the time it takes for data to travel from its storage location to where it’s being processed. This reduction in latency is vital for real-time applications and services like online gaming, financial trading platforms, and interactive web applications.
• Decreased Load on Backend Systems: Using a cache to store frequently accessed data reduces the load on backend systems like databases. This not only improves the performance of these systems but also contributes to their scalability and reliability.
• Cost Efficiency: Efficient caching can lead to cost savings, especially in cloud-based environments where resource usage is a significant factor in pricing. By optimizing data retrieval processes, companies can reduce the need for extensive database operations, which are often more expensive.
• Scalability: As applications grow and user bases expand, caching becomes crucial to manage the increased demand. Platform Cache allows applications to scale more effectively by handling a larger volume of requests without a corresponding increase in direct database queries.
• Improved User Experience: Faster data access and reduced latency directly translate to a smoother, more responsive user experience. This aspect is critical in retaining users and maintaining a competitive edge, especially in consumer-facing applications.

Also Read – Per-Transaction Limits in Salesforce

Types of Platform Caches

Configuring Platform Cache in Salesforce

Follow these steps to set up Platform Cache:

1. Go to Setup and use the Quick Find search bar to locate “Platform Cache.” Click on the corresponding result.
2. If your organization doesn’t have access to “Platform Cache,” you have the option to request a Free Trial (Optional Step).
3. Create a new Platform Cache Partition by selecting “New Platform Cache Partition” and provide the required information, including the desired name.
4. During the setup, designate the initial Partition as the Default Partition.

Step-by-step guide on implementing platform cache in an application

Assessing Your Needs

• Identify Data to Cache: Determine what data needs to be cached. This could be frequently accessed, slow to compute, or relatively static data.
• Analyze Access Patterns: Understand how your application accesses data. This will help in deciding the cache type and configuration.

Choosing the Type of Cache

• Session vs. Org Cache: Decide between session cache (user-specific) and org cache (shared across users). 
• Vendor-Specific Options: If you’re using a specific platform (like Salesforce), explore its specific caching options and limitations.

Cache Planning

• Size Estimation: Estimate the size of the cache based on the volume of data.
• Expiration Policy: Decide on a cache eviction policy. For example, Least Recently Used (LRU), time-based expiration, etc.

Implementation

• Enable Cache: On your chosen platform, enable the caching feature. This might involve some platform-specific steps.
• Configure Cache: Set up the cache size, expiration policies, and any other relevant settings.
• Cache Population: Implement logic in your application to populate the cache with data. This usually happens during data retrieval operations.

Accessing Cached Data

• Retrieval Logic: Modify your application’s data retrieval logic. Check the cache first before hitting the primary data source.
• Cache Update/Invalidation: Implement a system to refresh or remove cache items when the original data is modified.

Also Read – Apex CPU Time Limit Exceeded Fix [Real-World Scenario]

Testing

• Functional Testing: Ensure that the cache correctly stores and retrieves data.
• Performance Testing: Test the application performance with caching enabled to ensure it meets your expectations.

Monitoring and Maintenance

• Monitor Cache Performance: Regularly monitor cache hit rates, size, and eviction rates.
• Adjust Configurations: Revise cache sizes and policies in response to insights gained from monitoring data.

Security Considerations

• Data Security: Implement appropriate security measures to protect sensitive data in the cache.
• Access Controls: Ensure that cached data adheres to the same access controls as the primary data source.

Documentation and Best Practices

• Document Implementation: Document the caching strategy and implementation details.
• Follow Best Practices: Adhere to best practices for cache management, such as avoiding cache stampedes.

Review and Update

• Regular Review: Periodically review the caching strategy to align it with any changes in application usage patterns or data.
• Update as Needed: Update the cache configuration and implementation as your application evolves.>

Conclusion 

In the constantly evolving world of Salesforce, staying ahead means not just understanding the platform but mastering its various features like the Session and Org Cache. With the insights you’ve gained, you’re on your way to optimizing your Salesforce experience.

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