How to Create a Custom Object in Salesforce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Nov 24

Creating a custom object in Salesforce can open up new possibilities for managing data specific to your business needs. Whether you want to track inventory, customer feedback, or event registrations, custom objects give you the flexibility to shape Salesforce to your requirements. Let’s make the process clear and straightforward — and yes, a little fun too!

Step 1: Log Into Your Free Salesforce Developer Org

Before you create a custom object, you need access to a Salesforce environment. If you don’t have one yet, here’s how to get your free Developer Org:

Go to the Salesforce Developer website and sign up for a free developer account.
Fill in your details and check your email for the verification link.
Once verified, log in to your new Developer Org with your Salesforce credentials.

This org provides you a safe playground to experiment and learn without affecting real business data.

Step 2: Navigate to Object Manager

When logged in, click on the Gear icon (Setup) in the upper right corner.
Select Setup from the dropdown.
In the Setup menu, use the Quick Find box on the left and type Object Manager.
Click on Object Manager — this is where you manage all objects in Salesforce.

Step 3: Create a New Custom Object

In Object Manager, click the Create button (or Create Custom Object, depending on your interface).
Choose Custom Object from the options.

Step 4: Define the Custom Object

Label: Enter the name for your object, e.g., “Event Registration.”
Plural Label: Salesforce will auto-suggest this, but you can customize it ("Event Registrations").
Object Name: This is the API name, auto-filled (ends with “c”).
Add a Description to specify what your object is about.
Choose the Record Name type: Text or Auto Number.
Optional: Set other features such as allowing reports, activities, track field history, etc.
Click Save!

Step 5: Add Custom Fields

After saving, you’ll be redirected to the object details page.
Click Fields & Relationships on the left panel.
Click New to create a custom field (examples: Date, Number, Picklist).
Choose field type, fill in details, and set field-level security.
Don’t forget to add the field to relevant page layouts.

Step 6: Create Page Layouts and Set Permissions

Customize the layout so users see the important information first.
Check Profiles to control who can view or edit the object.

Step 7: Test Your Custom Object

Go back to the App Launcher (Grid icon) and find your custom object.
Try creating a new record to ensure everything works smoothly.
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Creating a custom object might seem technical at first, but with these easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be customizing Salesforce like a pro in no time. Happy building!

Gary Elbaum