It is time to move on from the Ant Migration Tool to the latest and officially-supported developer experience using the Salesforce CLI …
Here are highlights from article Moving on from the Ant Migration Tool to sf CLI (v2)
1. Retirement of the Ant Migration Tool
– Ant Migration Tool will not receive updates or new functionality after API v59.0.
– Using the tool may pose risks if backend APIs undergo major changes.
– Salesforce encourages moving towards using Salesforce CLI for development tasks.
2. Salesforce CLI as the Preferred Tool
– Salesforce CLI is an open-source tool that automates tasks across the Salesforce Platform.
– It supports more functionalities than the Ant Migration Tool.
– Salesforce Code Builder integrates Salesforce CLI, eliminating setup needs for developers.
3. Authentication and Org Management
– Salesforce CLI allows connecting multiple orgs (scratch orgs, sandboxes, production) to the IDE.
– Aliases can be used for easy switching between connected orgs.
– Scratch orgs can be customized with pilot and beta features for development and testing.
4. Simplifying Metadata Operations
– The `project generate manifest` command can create package.xml files for metadata operations.
– A variety of project commands are available for metadata management, resembling Ant Migration Tool capabilities but with added functionalities.
– Source tracking feature aids in managing changes in metadata more efficiently.
5. Development Workflow Recommendations
– Install Salesforce CLI and ensure it’s up to date using the `sf version` command.
– Use `org create scratch` and `org login web` commands for managing scratch and sandbox orgs.
– Utilize `project generate manifest`, `project deploy start`, and `project retrieve start` commands for handling application manifests and metadata.
– Deploy and retrieve metadata changes with `deploy preview`, `deploy start`, `retrieve preview`, and `retrieve start` options.
Conclusion:
– Emphasizes the necessity to transition from the Ant Migration Tool to Salesforce CLI.
– Encourages reporting feedback and issues through the Salesforce CLI GitHub repository.
Resources:
– Author mentions Salesforce CLI Setup page for installation guidance.
– Salesforce Code Builder is highlighted as a web-based development environment incorporating Salesforce CLI.
About the Author:
– Neha Ahlawat, Senior Product Manager at Salesforce, oversees Metadata API, source tracking, and change sets.
You can read it here: https://sfdc.blog/UcEWY
Source from developer(dot)salesforce(dot)com