How to Enable Field Service Lightning and Set Up the Core Data Model

 Welcome to Part 2 of our Field Service Lightning (FSL) blog series! In this post, we'll guide you through enabling FSL in your Salesforce org and setting up the basic data model that powers your field operations.

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Step 1: Enable Field Service Lightning

1. Navigate to Setup
   • Go to the Salesforce Setup area (click the gear icon > Setup).
2. Search for Field Service Settings
   • In Quick Find, type “Field Service” and select Field Service Settings.
3. Enable Field Service
   • Click Enable Field Service.
   • You may be prompted to confirm; click Enable again if needed.

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Step 2: Install the Field Service Lightning Managed Package

To access advanced scheduling, the Dispatcher Console, and the mobile app, install the FSL managed package:

1. From Setup, search for Field Service and select Field Service Admin.
2. Click Go to Field Service Settings and follow the prompts to install the package.
3. Assign the recommended permission sets to your users (“Field Service Dispatcher”, “Field Service Mobile”, etc.).

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Step 3: Understand and Set Up the Core Data Model

Field Service Lightning introduces several custom objects. The most essential ones are:

• Work Order: Represents a task to perform in the field (e.g., install, repair).
• Work Order Line Item: Subtasks or components of a work order.
• Service Appointment: The actual scheduled visit for a work order.
• Service Resource: A technician or equipment that can be assigned to jobs.
• Service Territory: Geographic regions where work is performed.
• Skill: Required abilities or certifications for certain jobs.
• Operating Hours: When resources or territories are available.

Create Sample Records

1. Create a Service Territory

   • Go to App Launcher and search for “Service Territories”.
   • Click New and create a territory (e.g., “San Francisco Area”).

2. Add Service Resources

   • Go to “Service Resources” and create a new record for a technician.
   • Assign them skills and operating hours.

3. Create a Work Order

   • Go to “Work Orders” and create a new work order, associating it with an Account (customer).

4. Create a Service Appointment

   • From the Work Order, create a new Service Appointment.

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Step 4: Assign Permission Sets

• Assign Field Service Admin, Dispatcher, or Mobile User permission sets to users based on their roles.
• Ensure technicians have access to the Field Service Mobile App.

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What's Next?

You’ve now enabled Field Service Lightning and set up the core data model! In the next post, we’ll explore how to configure scheduling policies and assign work automatically to the right resources.

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Stay tuned for Post 3: “Configuring Scheduling Policies and Automated Assignment in FSL”!