Overview
Custom TIMS API Integration & LWC Sync is a Salesforce integration that provides on-demand access to customer and operational data stored in the TIMS ERP platform. The solution uses a custom Lightning Web Component embedded directly on the Salesforce Account record, allowing users to retrieve current ERP data without leaving Salesforce. The architecture combines Apex callouts, Named Credentials, External Credentials, and Custom Metadata Types to support secure authentication, flexible field mapping, and maintainable integration management.
Business Problem
Users needed access to current customer, accounting, delivery, and operational information maintained in TIMS while working in Salesforce. A full bi-directional integration was not required, but users still needed an efficient way to retrieve current ERP data without switching systems or relying on manually maintained records. The solution provides direct access to TIMS data when needed while avoiding the complexity and overhead of continuous synchronization.
How It Works
A custom Lightning Web Component is placed on the Salesforce Account record and acts as an on-demand synchronization trigger. When selected, the component initiates Apex callouts to the TIMS Azure API and retrieves the latest customer and account information from the ERP platform. Named Credentials and External Credentials manage authentication, while Custom Metadata Types define field mappings between TIMS and Salesforce. This metadata-driven approach allows mappings to be updated without modifying code and simplifies future maintenance as integration requirements evolve.
Where This Fits
This accelerator is designed for industrial gas distributors, welding supply organizations, specialty distributors, and other companies that rely on the TIMS ERP platform as a system of record for customer, financial, inventory, delivery, and operational data. It is particularly useful when Salesforce users need real-time access to ERP information but do not require a full middleware platform or continuous synchronization process. The reusable elements include the Lightning Web Component user experience, Apex integration layer, credential management approach, metadata-driven mapping structure, and on-demand API synchronization model.