Managing Lockout Periods for Maintenance

See the solution below.

1

Create a profile that restricts the login hours for all users out during the maintenance session.

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Then use Data Loader to switch everyone back when done.

Managing lockout periods for maintenance involves ensuring that the Salesforce system is not accessible to users during scheduled maintenance windows. Here are some best practices for managing lockout periods:

1. Plan maintenance windows in advance: Before scheduling a maintenance window, ensure that you have a clear understanding of the work that needs to be done and the impact it will have on users. Schedule maintenance windows during off-peak hours or times when user activity is low to minimize the impact on users.

2. Notify users in advance: Communicate the maintenance schedule to all affected users well in advance. Include details such as the expected start and end times, the reason for the maintenance, and any expected downtime or disruption. Use multiple channels to communicate the information, including email, system notifications, and social media.

3. Create a maintenance page: Create a custom maintenance page that can be displayed to users when they try to access the system during a lockout period. The maintenance page should include a clear message that the system is currently unavailable due to scheduled maintenance and provide an estimated time when the system will be back online.

4. Use a maintenance window feature: Salesforce provides a maintenance window feature that allows administrators to specify a time window during which system maintenance can be performed. When a maintenance window is set, users will receive a warning message if they try to access the system during that time. This feature can be used to prevent accidental access to the system during maintenance windows.

5. Monitor system performance: During maintenance windows, monitor the system's performance closely to ensure that the work is progressing as expected. If any issues arise, be prepared to adjust the maintenance schedule or take other measures to mitigate the impact on users.

6. Conduct post-maintenance testing: After completing maintenance, conduct thorough testing to ensure that the system is functioning properly. If any issues are discovered, address them promptly to minimize disruption to users.

By following these best practices, you can effectively manage lockout periods for maintenance and minimize the impact on users while ensuring the Salesforce system remains secure and reliable.