Salesforce Basics: Navigating Setup and Customizing Your CRM

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to access and navigate the Salesforce Setup area, which is key for configuring your CRM. Whether you’re new to Salesforce or just need a refresher, understanding how to manage settings and objects in Salesforce will help you gain better control over your platform.

Accessing the Setup Menu

The first step in configuring Salesforce is accessing the Setup menu. From almost any screen in Salesforce, you’ll see a gear icon in the top-right corner. This icon opens both Setup and, if you’re using Service Cloud, Service Setup, marked by a purple gear. Clicking on Setup will open the backend screen where most of your admin work happens.

Navigating the Setup Pane

Once you’re in the Setup area, you’ll see different options that help you manage Salesforce. One of the most useful tools is the Quick Find Box at the top of the left-hand navigation pane. This search tool helps you quickly find specific settings, whether it’s for managing users, customizing objects, or enabling features like Einstein.

For example, if you want to set up user profiles or adjust app settings, type what you need into the Quick Find Box, and Salesforce will show relevant options. This feature saves time and helps you navigate without clicking through too many menus.

Managing Objects Through Object Manager

In Salesforce, objects like Leads, Opportunities, or Accounts are the core components of your CRM. To manage these, you’ll use the Object Manager, which you can access directly from the Setup menu. The Object Manager lets you configure things like fields, page layouts, and automation rules for each object.

For instance, if you’re working on a Leads object, go to the Object Manager, type “Leads” into the search bar, and you’ll find settings that let you adjust visibility, validation rules, and set up automated workflows.

Direct Object Editing from the Frontend

Salesforce also lets you edit objects directly from the frontend. If you're already viewing a record (like a lead), click the gear icon and select Edit Object to jump straight to that object’s settings. This shortcut saves you time by letting you make changes without leaving the current screen.

Lightning vs. Classic Layouts

Salesforce offers two interface options: Lightning and Classic. While Classic is still available, most users prefer Lightning because it’s easier to navigate and access settings. Lightning also includes advanced features like Kanban views and inline editing, making it a popular choice for many users.

Using the Setup Search Functionality

One of the best features in Salesforce Setup is the ability to search for almost any setting or user. For example, if you need to update a complex setting, like the Guest User Profile for a portal, just type it into the Search Setup box, and Salesforce will take you directly to the right page. This search tool saves time by reducing manual navigation and helps you find what you need faster.

Conclusion

Navigating Salesforce’s admin tools is essential for anyone managing or configuring the platform. By learning how to access the Setup menu, use the Object Manager, and leverage the Setup Search, you’ll be able to customize Salesforce to fit your organization’s needs.

For more guidance, check out Salesforce’s Trailhead modules, which offer easy, bite-sized lessons on everything from basic admin tasks to advanced configurations.