In Salesforce, the master-detail relationship is essential to create a tightly coupled relationship between two objects. Validating this relationship as a Salesforce administrator, developer, or QA tester guarantees data confidentiality, integrity, and proper business logic execution. This article will demonstrate how you test a master-detail relationship in Salesforce.
What Is a Master-Detail Relationship?
A master-detail relationship is a type of parent-child relationship between two Salesforce objects. The detail (child) object’s behaviors are controlled by the master (parent) in multiple ways:
- Without the parent, a child’s record cannot exist.
- The child is automatically subject to the sharing and security settings set by the parent.
- The child records are also deleted (cascade delete) if the parent record is deleted.
- To summarize child records, roll-up summary fields can be created on the master object record.
To make sure the system works as intended, testing this relationship requires paying close attention to these actions. So, how you test a master-detail relationship in Salesforce ? Let’s find out.
Steps to Test a Master-Detail Relationship
1. Verify Field-Level Relationship
First, ensure that you add a lookup field in the detail object that references the master object and tag it as needed.
Test Procedures:
- Navigate to the schema of the detail object (Object Manager).
- Confirm that the lookup field is set to “Master-Detail.”
- Make sure the field is necessary while creating a record.
Expected Result: The system must stop a child record from being created without a parent record.
2. Test Record Creation Dependency
The child record should not save unless it is linked to a valid master record.
Test Scenario:
- A child record should ideally be created without being linked to a master.
- After creating a master record, link it to a child record.
Expected Result: The system should prevent saving the child record without a master and allow it when linked.
3. Validate Cascade Delete Behavior
Deleting a parent record must also delete all associated child records.
Test Scenario:
- Create a master record and link several detail records to it.
- Delete the master record.
Expected Result: The system should automatically delete the all related child records.
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4. Check Roll-Up Summary Fields
Make sure the master object’s roll-up summary fields, if any, accurately compute values based on child records.
Test Scenario:
- Create a roll-up summary field with the following options: count, sum, min, max.
- Child records can be added, updated, or deleted.
Expected Result: The roll-up summary field on the master updates in real-time.
5. Test Sharing and Security Rules
The master-detail relationship enforces that the child’s sharing settings follow the master’s.
Test Scenario:
- Grant user access to the master record and check access to the child.
- Remove the master’s access and confirm that the child’s access is also restricted.
Expected Result: Child access always reflects parent access.
6. Test Reporting and Filters
Make sure the relationship is available for record grouping and filtering when generating reports.
Test Scenario:
- Create a unique custom report type that involves both master and detail objects.
- Make use of master and detail field-based filters.
Expected Result: Report should reflect all relational data accurately.
7. Automation and Triggers
Make sure workflows, flows, and triggers that depend on the master-detail relationship are operating correctly.
Test Scenario:
- Create a flow that triggers when a child record is created.
- Verify that the flow behaves correctly based on master values.
Expected Result: The automation should function flawlessly and respect the relationship hierarchy.
Best Practices for Testing Master-Detail Relationships
- For safe testing, use sandbox environments.
- If you’re using Apex, create test data using test classes.
- Verify edge scenarios such as high data volumes and mass deletions.
- For future regression cycles, record your test scenarios.
Conclusion
Testing a master-detail relationship in Salesforce guarantees data accuracy, compliance, and seamless user experiences.You may verify the relationship structure and the associated functional workflows by looking at field requirements, roll-up summaries, security rules, cascade deletions, and automation flows. Carefully validating this relationship, whether manually or with automated scripts, strengthens the foundation of your Salesforce data architecture.
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