Hands-On Salesforce Data Cloud

Chapter 7. Data Modeling

In Chapter 6, we explored the data ingestion and storage capabilities of Salesforce Data Cloud. We also discovered how the Data Streams tab brings data from various sources into DLOs. Using Salesforce starter data bundles allows us to automatically map Salesforce CRM data to some standard DMOs, but any data that wasn’t ingested as part of the starter data bundles, including external source data, won’t automatically be mapped to a DMO. Thus, you’ll need to manually map all DLOs for whichever starter data bundles are not available.

Mapping is a critical step because only mapped fields and objects with relationships can be used for segmentation, activation, and other value activities. Mapping needs to be completed before you can perform next steps like creating calculated and streaming insights or data actions.

There is advance work that needs to be done before you undertake data mapping (Figure 7-1). Someone on your team will need to perform the earlier steps to profile and classify the data before ingesting and mapping it. Therefore, in this chapter, we’ll explain the important aspects of these earlier steps. That way, you’ll be set up for success when you learn about mapping in Chapter 8.

We’ll focus more on data classification because of the importance of determining the correct data category for your source data and laying the groundwork for successful data mapping. We’ll also learn about developing a good data model by leveraging the data classification ...