How do you choose between SOQL dynamic and static queries?

?? Dynamic SOQL: 1. Flexibility: Ideal when query structure or conditions change dynamically. 2. Runtime Construction: Enables building queries dynamically during runtime. 3. Variable Binding: Suited for dynamic filter criteria based on user inputs or runtime conditions. ?? Static SOQL: 1.Compile-Time Checking: Provides compile-time validation, reducing runtime errors. 2.Optimization: Generally more efficient due to query plan caching. 3.Security: Reduces the risk of injection attacks since query structure is fixed at compile-time. ?? Choosing Between: 1.Dynamic: For variable or unknown query conditions during compile-time. 2. Static: When dealing with predictable queries, offering performance and security advantages.

In my experience, dynamic queries are difficult to maintain due to its lack of syntax checks during code compilation. If there are any syntax or query errors from the dynamic query, the user and/or developer will not know about it until the query is executed at runtime/test execution.

Use static SOQL whenever possible because it is faster, safer, and less prone to errors. Use dynamic SOQL when necessary but ensure proper input sanitization to prevent SOQL injection, especially when dealing with user inputs. In summary, use static SOQL for predefined queries for performance and security, and opt for dynamic SOQL when you need flexibility, but with caution around security risks.

It's super important to call out the risks of SOQL injection that this creates, and give examples of how to sanitize inputs to avoid it.

A combination of both static and dynamic queries may be the best approach. For example, you can use a static query to retrieve certain records and then dynamically build parts of the query based on user input or other variables. Choose static SOQL for better performance, compile-time checking, and easier maintenance when your queries are straightforward and known at design time. Choose dynamic SOQL when you need flexibility to handle changing query structures at runtime, especially for user-driven or metadata-based queries. Just be cautious of SOQL injection risks and performance considerations. This balanced approach ensures that your queries are efficient, secure, and tailored to your app’s specific needs.

Use Case Complexity: Evaluate the complexity of your use case and determine if dynamic criteria, filtering, or field selections are necessary. Performance Requirements: Consider performance implications and optimization opportunities when deciding between dynamic and static queries. Security Considerations: Assess the risk of injection vulnerabilities and prioritize security when handling user inputs or dynamic criteria.

Static queries are checked at compile time. This means that syntax and object references are validated before deployment, reducing the likelihood of runtime errors related to query structure. Static queries can be more readable, especially for simple queries. The query structure is evident in the code, making it easier for developers to understand and maintain. In some cases, static queries may be more efficient in terms of execution speed. The query plan can be optimized during compilation, potentially resulting in better performance.

Choose dynamic queries when you need flexibility and the ability to construct queries dynamically based on runtime conditions. Choose static queries When the query structure is known at compile time, providing better performance and security. Consider the specific requirements and characteristics of your use case to make an informed decision.

Static queries are also useful because if you make any configuration changes that would break them, they will also be prevented from being deployed.

Static queries provide predictability and readability but lack the adaptability and flexibility of dynamic queries. -> Static queries are commonly used when the query structure remains constant and doesn’t depend on runtime conditions or variables. -> They are suitable for scenarios where the query logic doesn’t change frequently and doesn’t need to be dynamically altered.

Static SOQL queries can certainly use apex variables. They also can query different objects and fields depending on how they're written. Also this would be another section where it's appropriate to address SOQL injection risks directly. Also I'm pretty sure dynamic SOQL can traverse relationships and use subqueries.

Choosing between dynamic and static queries depends on the specific requirements of your application. A balance between the two approaches might be ideal, leveraging the strengths of each based on the context and needs of your Salesforce development. Consider Dynamic SOQL query when: 1. Reusability Across Scenarios: When you need reusable query structures across different scenarios . 2. Dynamic Filtering: If you require dynamic filtering, such as applying different WHERE clauses or sorting criteria based on varying conditions. Consider Static SOQL query when: 1. Fixed Query Structure: If the query structure, fields, and conditions remain constant. 2. Performance Optimization: When the priority is performance.

Some key factors to consider when choosing between static and dynamic SOQL queries are 1. Query complexity and variability: How often does your query structure need to change? Static queries are fixed and don't change on runtime conditions whereas dynamic queries can adapt per user inputs. 2. Security Considerations: Are you working with sensitive data and how much control do you have over the input? Comparatively dynamic queries can be subject to SOQL injection and user inputs are not validated efficiently. 3. Future Flexibility Needs: Are you building a system that needs to accommodate various future scenarios? Static queries require structural query modifications whereas dynamic queries offer more adaptability for future enhancements.

Choosing between SOQL dynamic and static queries is like deciding whether to use a map or a GPS on a road trip. Static queries are your map, predefined and reliable for known destinations. Dynamic queries, like a GPS, offer flexibility, adapting to conditions as they change. When deciding, consider if your route (data needs) will change often. For fixed data requirements, go static; for varying ones, dynamic is your best bet. This approach ensures you always have the right tool for your journey.

Another thing to consider is when your data model changes, especially field deletion. Using static query makes it easier to identify impact (unit test will fail, assuming valid test methods have been written). On the other hand, using dynamic SOQL might require code review to understand the impact since the unit tests might succeed if it dynamically handles field detection based on schema. This means that unit tests alone will not be sufficient and require additional functional tests to verify no regressions impact.

I don't see enough detail here to figure out how to identify or work with either static or dynamic queries, however searches on this topic show in Apex use of the Database.query() method to pass a piecemeal constructed String as the query - referred to elsewhere as Dynamic, as opposed to the square bracket notation for designating a query - referred to elsewhere as Static. Also, here's a link that shows how to reference variables in Apex SOQL queries so that Static isn't quite as limited as inferred: https://developer.salesforce.com/docs/atlas.en-us.apexcode.meta/apexcode/langCon_apex_SOQL_variables.htm.