Metadata Type: ExternalClientApplication

Introduction

ExternalClientApplication is a metadata type in Salesforce that represents an external client app. External client apps are a new generation of connected apps that enable third-party applications to integrate with Salesforce using APIs and standard protocols like OAuth and OpenID Connect. This metadata type allows developers and administrators to define and configure external client apps programmatically through the Metadata API.

Key Features and Components

The ExternalClientApplication metadata type includes several important fields and components:

• contactEmail: The email address of the app's point of contact
• description: A description of the external client app
• distributionState: Indicates whether the app is local or distributed
• iconUrl: URL of the app's icon image
• label: The display name of the external client app
• logoUrl: URL of the app's logo image
• oauthConfig: OAuth configuration settings for the app

Deployment Considerations

When deploying ExternalClientApplication metadata, administrators should be aware of several potential issues:

1. OAuth Scopes: Ensure that the correct OAuth scopes are specified in the oauthConfig section. Incorrect or missing scopes can lead to authorization issues.
2. Callback URLs: Verify that all callback URLs are correctly configured and use HTTPS for security.
3. API Version Compatibility: Make sure the ExternalClientApplication metadata is compatible with the target org's API version.
4. Naming Conflicts: Avoid naming conflicts with existing external client apps in the target org.
5. Profile and Permission Set Access: Ensure that the necessary profiles and permission sets have access to the external client app after deployment.

Best Practices for Salesforce Administrators

To effectively manage and deploy ExternalClientApplication metadata, Salesforce administrators should follow these best practices:

1. Use Version Control

Maintain ExternalClientApplication metadata in a version control system like Git. This allows for better tracking of changes and collaboration among team members.

2. Implement a Robust Testing Strategy

Before deploying to production, thoroughly test the external client app in a sandbox environment. This includes verifying OAuth flows, callback functionality, and integration with the third-party application.

3. Document Configuration Details

Maintain detailed documentation of the external client app's configuration, including OAuth scopes, callback URLs, and any custom settings. This documentation is crucial for troubleshooting and knowledge transfer.

4. Use Naming Conventions

Adopt a consistent naming convention for external client apps to improve organization and prevent conflicts. For example, use a prefix or suffix to indicate the app's purpose or owning team.

5. Regularly Review and Update

Periodically review deployed external client apps to ensure they are still necessary and up-to-date. Remove or update obsolete apps to maintain a clean org.

6. Leverage Packaging

Consider using unlocked packages to deploy ExternalClientApplication metadata along with related components. This approach provides better dependency management and easier updates.

7. Monitor Usage and Performance

Implement monitoring and logging for external client apps to track usage patterns and identify potential performance issues or security concerns.

8. Implement Proper Security Measures

Follow Salesforce security best practices when configuring external client apps, including:

• Using strong client secrets
• Implementing IP restrictions where appropriate
• Regularly rotating client secrets and certificates
• Limiting OAuth scopes to only what is necessary

9. Coordinate with Development Teams

Work closely with development teams to ensure that ExternalClientApplication metadata aligns with the needs of the integrating application. This includes coordinating on OAuth scopes, callback URLs, and any custom attributes.

10. Use Deployment Tools Effectively

Leverage Salesforce deployment tools like the Metadata API, Salesforce CLI, or change sets to manage ExternalClientApplication deployments. Understand the capabilities and limitations of each tool for handling this metadata type.

Conclusion

The ExternalClientApplication metadata type is a powerful tool for managing integrations between Salesforce and external applications. By understanding its components, addressing potential deployment issues, and following best practices, Salesforce administrators can effectively leverage this metadata type to create secure and efficient integrations. As the Salesforce ecosystem continues to evolve, staying informed about updates and new features related to external client apps will be crucial for maintaining robust and compliant integrations.