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ApexIntermediateorder-of-executionflowvalidation

Explain order of execution and where Apex fits with Flow and validation

Real World Scenario

Before-save Flow and Before Update trigger both modify the same field causing unpredictable final value depending on save path.

Expected Answer

• Order: before triggers → custom validation → duplicate rules → before-save Flows → save → after triggers → after-save Flows • Consolidate same-field logic into one layer—avoid split between Flow and trigger • Before-save Flows for simple field updates; triggers for complex bulk logic • Document which object uses which automation layer in team wiki • Use trigger bypass when Flow owns field exclusively during migration • Debug with logging at each layer during UAT conflicts • Platform event subscribers run outside synchronous order—account for eventual consistency

Follow-Up Questions & Answers

Click to expand — each follow-up includes a direct, interview-ready answer

Main difference: use case and scale. Order: before triggers → custom validation → duplicate rules → before-save Flows → save → after triggers → after-save Flows. Consolidate same-field logic into one layer—avoid split between Flow and trigger. Pick based on your integration pattern and team capability. Order of execution wars waste sprints—architects assign ownership per object and field, not per developer preference. Balance speed of delivery with maintainability.

Architect Perspective

Order of execution wars waste sprints—architects assign ownership per object and field, not per developer preference.