Salesforce Lightning vs Classic: A Comparison

Salesforce is a leader in the CRM space, offering a variety of tools to help businesses manage customer relationships, sales, and data more efficiently. Over the years, Salesforce has undergone several transformations, the most significant being the introduction of the Lightning Experience. This modern interface is a step up from the Classic interface, offering new features, improved usability, and better overall performance. However, many businesses still use Classic, which begs the question: which is better for your organization? This blog provides an in-depth comparison between Salesforce Lightning and Classic, helping you make an informed decision.

What is Salesforce Classic?

Salesforce Classic is the original user interface of Salesforce, known for its straightforward, tab-based navigation. It provides core CRM functionalities like lead and opportunity management, reporting, and dashboards. Despite its reliability, Salesforce Classic lacks the modern features and user-friendly design of the newer Lightning Experience. Salesforce encourages users to migrate to Lightning, which offers enhanced productivity tools, improved mobile access, and a more intuitive interface. While Classic is still supported, it is no longer the focus of new updates, making Lightning the preferred option for most Salesforce users today.

What is Salesforce Lightning?

Salesforce Lightning is the modern user interface and experience (UI/UX) of Salesforce, designed to boost productivity with a more dynamic and intuitive layout. It offers advanced features such as customizable dashboards, enhanced mobile accessibility, and powerful AI-driven tools like Einstein Analytics. Lightning also provides improved app-building capabilities through Lightning Components and App Builder, enabling users to create tailored experiences without code. Compared to Salesforce Classic, Lightning is more visually appealing, user-friendly, and future-focused, receiving all the latest updates and innovations. Salesforce strongly encourages users to switch to Lightning for a more efficient and versatile CRM experience.

Salesforce Classic Features

Salesforce Classic, the predecessor to Salesforce Lightning, has been a cornerstone for many businesses seeking a comprehensive CRM solution. Despite being overshadowed by the more modern Lightning Experience, Salesforce Classic remains integral for certain organizations due to its robust features and legacy integrations. Here’s a detailed overview of its key features:

1. User Interface

Salesforce Classic’s user interface is characterized by its tab-based navigation and a traditional layout. Users interact with a familiar, straightforward interface that includes tabs for various functions such as Accounts, Contacts, Opportunities, and Leads. The classic design emphasizes a more static layout, which can be advantageous for users who prefer a consistent, non-dynamic environment.

2. Custom Objects and Fields

Salesforce Classic supports the creation and management of custom objects and fields, enabling users to tailor the CRM system to their specific needs. Custom objects allow businesses to extend Salesforce’s functionality beyond standard objects like Accounts and Opportunities. Custom fields can be added to these objects to capture additional data relevant to business processes, ensuring that the system can be adapted to unique requirements.

3. Reports and Dashboards

The reporting capabilities in Salesforce Classic are comprehensive, offering users the ability to create detailed reports and dashboards. Users can build custom reports using a variety of filters, groupings, and summarizations. Dashboards in Classic provide visual representations of data through charts and graphs, allowing users to track key metrics and performance indicators. Though less dynamic than Lightning dashboards, Classic’s reporting tools are robust and widely used.

4. Workflow Rules and Approvals

Workflow rules in Salesforce Classic automate business processes by triggering actions based on predefined criteria. Users can set up rules to send email alerts, update fields, create tasks, or send outbound messages. Approval processes are also supported, allowing users to define multi-step approval workflows that require authorization from designated individuals before certain actions are completed.

5. Page Layouts and Record Types

Salesforce Classic allows customization of page layouts and record types, enabling users to tailor the appearance and functionality of records. Page layouts control the arrangement of fields, related lists, and other components on a record’s detail page. Record types help in categorizing records based on different business needs, which can be particularly useful for organizations with varied processes and requirements.

6. Email Integration

Classic provides robust email integration capabilities, including the ability to send and receive emails directly within the CRM. Users can link their email accounts to Salesforce Classic, allowing for seamless communication with contacts and leads. The system supports email templates, which can be used to streamline communications and ensure consistency in messaging.

7. Chatter

Salesforce Classic includes Chatter, a collaboration tool designed to enhance communication within organizations. Chatter allows users to follow records, post updates, share files, and collaborate on various projects. This feature integrates social networking principles into the CRM, fostering better teamwork and information sharing among users.

8. Data Management

Data management in Salesforce Classic involves tools for importing, exporting, and maintaining data integrity. The Data Import Wizard and Data Loader are essential for transferring data into and out of Salesforce. Classic also supports duplicate management and data validation rules to ensure the accuracy and consistency of information within the system.

9. API and Integration

Salesforce Classic offers robust API capabilities, including REST and SOAP APIs, which facilitate integration with other systems and applications. These APIs enable organizations to connect Salesforce with external platforms, such as ERP systems or marketing automation tools, ensuring a seamless flow of information across various business functions.

10. Security and Permissions

Security features in Salesforce Classic include detailed user access controls and permissions. Administrators can set up profiles and permission sets to manage what users can see and do within the system. Role hierarchies and sharing rules help in defining data access levels, ensuring that sensitive information is appropriately protected.

Limitations of Salesforce Classic:

1. Outdated Interface: Classic’s user interface is less modern and user-friendly than Lightning’s. It lacks visual appeal and streamlined navigation, which can hinder productivity and user satisfaction.
2. Limited Security: Classic’s centralized, single-layer security approach may be less robust compared to Lightning’s advanced security features, potentially exposing organizations to higher risk.
3. Reduced Functionality: Many features in Classic have been significantly enhanced in Lightning. Classic does not offer visual tools like lead activity timelines or advanced reporting functionalities, which are available in Lightning.
4. Complexity: The Classic interface can be more complex and less intuitive, making it harder for users to navigate and perform tasks efficiently.

Migrating to Lightning Experience:

Migrating to Salesforce Lightning addresses these limitations by offering a modern, sales and service-centric interface that improves usability across various departments, including marketing and customer service. Lightning provides enhanced features, regular updates, and a more secure, flexible platform that better meets today’s CRM needs.

Salesforce Lightning Pricing

Salesforce Lightning is available through several pricing tiers, which vary based on the edition and features included. The primary editions are:

1. Salesforce Essentials: Designed for small businesses, this edition starts at $25 per user per month and includes core CRM features, such as contact and opportunity management.
2. Salesforce Professional: At $75 per user per month, this edition offers advanced CRM functionalities, including customization options and team collaboration tools.
3. Salesforce Enterprise: Priced at $150 per user per month, it provides comprehensive CRM capabilities, such as advanced automation, analytics, and integration options.
4. Salesforce Unlimited: At $300 per user per month, this edition offers the highest level of features, including unlimited customizations, advanced support, and additional storage.

Salesforce Lightning vs Classic: A Comprehensive Comparison

Salesforce Lightning and Salesforce Classic represent two distinct user interfaces for Salesforce, each with its unique features and capabilities. Understanding the differences between them is essential for organizations looking to optimize their Salesforce experience. This comparison will highlight the key differences, benefits, and considerations of each version.

1. User Interface and Experience

Salesforce Classic: Salesforce Classic is the original user interface for Salesforce, featuring a traditional look and feel. It has a straightforward design with standard navigation elements, which some users find familiar and simple. However, its interface can appear dated compared to modern standards.

Salesforce Lightning: Lightning Experience, introduced in 2015, offers a more modern and intuitive interface. It features a dynamic and responsive design, with a focus on improving user experience through customizable dashboards, interactive components, and streamlined navigation. The Lightning UI incorporates a more visually appealing layout with better use of space and enhanced usability.

2. Customization and Flexibility

Salesforce Classic: Customization in Classic is somewhat limited compared to Lightning. Users can create and modify standard and custom objects, but the process often involves more manual effort. Classic’s customization options are more rigid, with fewer drag-and-drop tools and less flexibility in design.

Salesforce Lightning: Lightning provides a richer customization experience with its Lightning App Builder. Users can easily create custom pages using drag-and-drop components, allowing for greater flexibility and quicker adjustments. The Lightning Experience also supports Lightning Components, which are reusable elements that enhance functionality and user experience.

3. Features and Functionality

Salesforce Classic: While Classic supports a wide range of functionalities, it lacks some of the advanced features available in Lightning. For example, Classic does not include Lightning Experience’s advanced reporting, dynamic dashboards, or the Kanban view for managing tasks and opportunities.

Salesforce Lightning: Lightning Experience introduces several new features, including:

• Lightning App Builder: A tool for creating customized app pages with a drag-and-drop interface.
• Lightning Component Framework: Allows developers to build reusable components that can be used across various parts of Salesforce.
• Enhanced Reporting and Analytics: Includes new charting options, dynamic dashboards, and the ability to create more detailed reports.
• Salesforce Einstein Integration: Lightning Experience integrates seamlessly with Salesforce Einstein, offering AI-driven insights and predictive analytics.

4. Performance and Speed

Salesforce Classic: Classic is generally reliable, but its performance can be impacted by the older technology stack and less optimized user interface. Some users report slower load times and less responsive interactions compared to modern standards.

Salesforce Lightning: Lightning Experience is designed with performance improvements in mind. It leverages modern web technologies, resulting in faster load times, smoother interactions, and an overall more responsive user experience. The introduction of Lightning Web Components also contributes to better performance and efficiency.

5. Mobile Experience

Salesforce Classic: The mobile experience in Classic is less optimized. While there is a mobile version available, it often lacks the advanced features and smooth performance found in Lightning.

Salesforce Lightning: Lightning offers a significantly improved mobile experience. The Lightning Mobile App is designed to provide a consistent and efficient user experience across devices. The interface adapts well to mobile screens, and users can access a range of features with ease.

6. Integration and Future-Proofing

Salesforce Classic: Classic has been around longer and integrates well with older systems and technologies. However, Salesforce has shifted its focus to Lightning, and many new features and updates are designed with Lightning in mind.

Salesforce Lightning: Lightning is the future of Salesforce and is continuously evolving with new features and enhancements. Salesforce is committed to developing and supporting Lightning, making it the preferred choice for organizations looking to leverage the latest innovations and integrations.

7. Migration Considerations

Salesforce Classic: Organizations still using Classic might face challenges with limited support and fewer updates. Migration to Lightning is encouraged for better functionality and access to new features.

Salesforce Lightning: Transitioning from Classic to Lightning involves planning and preparation. While the process can require some effort, including user training and data migration, the long-term benefits of Lightning Experience make it a worthwhile investment for most organizations.

Improved Features of Salesforce Lightning

Salesforce Lightning, introduced to enhance user experience and productivity, offers a significant upgrade from Salesforce Classic. Here’s an overview of the key improved features of Salesforce Lightning:

1. User Interface

Salesforce Lightning features a modern, user-friendly interface designed to improve usability. The Lightning Experience boasts a more intuitive layout with a focus on productivity, incorporating components like a customizable dashboard, streamlined navigation, and a consistent design language. The interface is designed to be responsive, ensuring that it works seamlessly on various devices, including tablets and smartphones.

2. Lightning App Builder

The Lightning App Builder is a powerful tool that allows users to create and customize applications with ease. It provides a drag-and-drop interface for building custom pages and applications without needing extensive coding knowledge. Users can personalize layouts, add components, and configure apps to meet specific business needs, resulting in a tailored experience that enhances productivity and user engagement.

3. Lightning Components

Lightning Components, a key feature of the Lightning Experience, offer reusable building blocks that can be used to create custom interfaces and applications. These components are modular and can be assembled to build sophisticated functionalities. The component-based architecture enhances flexibility and scalability, allowing developers to create rich, interactive experiences and integrate them seamlessly into Salesforce.

4. Improved Performance

Salesforce Lightning introduces several performance improvements over Classic. Enhanced caching, optimized loading times, and efficient data retrieval contribute to a faster and more responsive user experience. Lightning pages are designed to load quickly, which improves overall efficiency and user satisfaction, especially in high-demand environments.

5. Advanced Reporting and Analytics

The Lightning Experience includes enhanced reporting and analytics tools. Features like the Lightning Report Builder enable users to create more sophisticated reports and dashboards with advanced filters, customizations, and visualizations. The improved analytics capabilities allow for more in-depth insights into data, facilitating better decision-making and strategic planning.

6. Collaboration Tools

Collaboration tools in Lightning are more integrated and accessible. Features such as Chatter, Salesforce’s enterprise social network, are more seamlessly integrated into the Lightning interface. This facilitates real-time communication and collaboration among team members, enhancing productivity and ensuring that everyone is aligned with the latest updates and information.

7. Lightning Flow

Lightning Flow provides a streamlined approach to automation and process management. With Flow Builder, users can design and implement complex workflows and automation processes without needing extensive programming knowledge. This tool simplifies the creation of automated processes, improving operational efficiency and consistency across various business functions.

8. Einstein Integration

Salesforce Lightning integrates seamlessly with Einstein, Salesforce’s AI platform. This integration brings advanced artificial intelligence capabilities into the Lightning Experience, offering predictive analytics, intelligent recommendations, and enhanced data insights. The AI-driven features help users make informed decisions, automate routine tasks, and personalize customer interactions more effectively.

9. Mobile Optimization

Lightning is designed with mobile optimization in mind, offering a consistent experience across devices. The mobile-first approach ensures that users can access and interact with Salesforce on-the-go, maintaining productivity and responsiveness regardless of the device being used. Mobile apps and functionalities are fully integrated with the Lightning Experience, providing a cohesive user experience.

10. Streamlined Navigation

The Lightning Experience introduces improved navigation features, such as the App Launcher and global search. The App Launcher provides quick access to frequently used applications, while global search offers more relevant and precise search results. These enhancements make it easier for users to find and access the information they need efficiently.

11. Customizable Dashboards

Dashboards in Lightning are highly customizable, allowing users to create personalized views of their data. The enhanced dashboard features include dynamic filters, interactive charts, and real-time data updates. Users can tailor dashboards to reflect their specific needs and preferences, improving visibility and control over key metrics.

Conclusion: Salesforce Lightning vs Classic

Salesforce Lightning represents a substantial upgrade over Salesforce Classic, offering a modern, intuitive interface and advanced features that enhance productivity and user experience. Unlike Classic, Lightning boasts a customizable and responsive design, with tools like the Lightning App Builder and Lightning Components enabling users to create tailored applications and interfaces. Performance improvements, such as faster loading times and enhanced data retrieval, contribute to a more efficient workflow.

Key features of Lightning include advanced reporting and analytics, improved automation with Lightning Flow, and seamless integration with Einstein AI for predictive insights. Enhanced mobile optimization ensures a consistent experience across devices, while collaboration tools and customizable dashboards further streamline operations.

Salesforce Classic lacks many of these modern functionalities and customizations, offering a more static and less user-friendly experience. Lightning’s innovations address many of Classic’s limitations, providing a more dynamic, efficient, and scalable platform for managing customer relationships and business processes.