Debugging and Error Handling in VBA

After setting up VBA in Excel, you can start automating tasks and creating your macros. This blog will guide you through what comes next after the setup process—writing, running, and debugging VBA code in Excel.

Debugging and error handling are crucial for writing effective and reliable VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) code. It helps you identify issues and ensure your macros run smoothly. These practices ensure your code runs as intended and gracefully handles unexpected scenarios. In this blog, we’ll explore tools for debugging VBA code effectively and techniques for robust error handling, providing practical examples to make the concepts relatable and actionable.

Tools for Debugging VBA Code Effectively

1. Breakpoints: The First Line of Defense

Breakpoints allow you to pause code execution at specific lines, enabling you to inspect variable values and program flow. To set a breakpoint, click in the margin next to the code line or press F9. When the code execution stops, you can analyze what’s happening.

Breakpoint

Tip: Combine breakpoints with the Step-Into (F8) feature to execute the code line by line.

2. Immediate Window: Real-Time Debugging

The Immediate Window is a versatile tool where you can print variable values and test code snippets without running the entire program. Use Debug. Print to output values or messages to the Immediate Window.

Example:

Immediate window in VBA Editor

3. Locals Window and Watch Window: Inspect Variables

• Locals Window: Displays all variables in the current scope and their values.
• Watch Window: Allows you to monitor specific variables or expressions.

Local Window Watch Window in VBA editor

4. Error Highlighting and Debugging Features

VBA highlights syntax errors in red and runtime errors with a debug prompt. Clicking “Debug” during runtime errors highlights the problematic line for further inspection.

Example Error: Dividing by zero triggers a runtime error.

The highlighted error line of the code

Writing Robust Code with Error Handling Techniques

1. ‘On Error Resume Next’: Ignore and Proceed

This statement instructs VBA to ignore the error and move to the next line of code. Use it sparingly for non-critical errors.

Example:

Sub IgnoreError()
On Error Resume Next
Dim num As Integer
num = 10 / 0    'Error ignored
MsgBox "Code continues despite the error."
End Sub

You can explore more on error handling in VBA by reviewing the Microsoft VBA API Overview, which provides a comprehensive guide to error handling and other VBA concepts.

Conclusion

Once you’ve set up Excel VBA, you can start writing, debugging, and optimizing your macros. The next steps after setup are crucial for mastering VBA and making your Excel workflows more efficient. Keep practicing, and as you gain more experience, you’ll unlock the full potential of Excel automation.

Objective

Automate the deployment of Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) using Terraform Cloud Workspaces. This ensures Infrastructure as Code (IaC) is centrally managed, and all changes are traceable.

1. Set Up a Terraform Cloud Workspace Free Account

Step 1: Create a Terraform Cloud Account

1. Navigate to https://developer.hashicorp.com/sign-up.
2. Sign up or log in with a valid email ID.

Step 2: Create an Organization

1. After logging in, create an organization (if one doesn’t already exist):
   a. Go to Organizations > Create Organization.
   b. Provide a name for the organization.

Step 3: Create a Workspace

1. Navigate to Workspaces:
   a. Go to your organization dashboard.
   b. Click on Workspaces > Create a New Workspace.

       2. Select a Workflow: Terraform Cloud offers three workflows:

            a. CLI-Driven Workflow: Ideal for local Terraform runs but stores state in Terraform Cloud.

2. Download and Install Azure CLI and Terraform

Step 1: Install Azure CLI

1. Visit https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/cli/azure/install-azure-cli.
2. Download and install the CLI on your system.

Step 2: Install Terraform

1. Go to https://releases.hashicorp.com/terraform/.
2. Download the Terraform version that matches your system configuration.

3. Integration/Login from Local to Terraform Cloud

Step 1: Set Up Terraform Manifest Files

1. Create a working directory.
2. Within it, set up the root folder for the main module and child modules with provider configurations.

Step 2: Authenticate with Terraform Cloud

1. Open the terminal in VS Code and run: “terraform login”
2. Approve the request by entering yes.

       3. Generate and paste the API token:

            a. Navigate to Account Settings > Tokens > Create API Token.

            b. Copy the generated token (visible only once).

            c. Paste the token into the terminal.

Step 3: Initialize Terraform

1. Run the terraform init command to download Azure provider plugins.
2. While initializing, select the appropriate workspace name.
3. Verify successful initialization with the message:
   “Terraform has been successfully initialized.”

4. Add Variables to Terraform Cloud Workspace

1. Select your workspace and navigate to the Variables section.
2. Add the required Azure variables:
   • Client ID
   • Client Secret
   • Subscription ID
   • Tenant ID

5. Develop Terraform Code

Step 1: Resource Group, VNet, and Subnet

Write Terraform scripts for creating:

1. Resource Group (RG).
2. Virtual Network (VNet).
3. Subnet.

Step 2: Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS)

Write Terraform scripts for provisioning AKS.

Step 3: Test and Validate

Ensure the Terraform code is correct by running terraform plan.

6. Deploy Resources to Azure Cloud

Deployment Steps

1. Run terraform init to initialize plugins and modules. and select the workspace name.

       2. Run terraform plan to preview the deployment.

        3.Run terraform apply to deploy the resources based on the plan output.

Post-Deployment

1. Check the Run Logs in the Terraform Cloud Workspace for detailed insights.
2. Verify the resources in the Azure Portal.

The Agentforce World Tour has been a groundbreaking series of events, showcasing how Salesforce is revolutionizing work and customer service with AI-driven solutions. Here are some key takeaways from the recent sessions in New York, Atlanta, Dallas, and Chicago.

New York – November 20

Harry Wilson, Senior Solutions Architect, highlighted how Salesforce is transforming internal business processes with Slack. By creating Agents and Workflows, Salesforce has significantly reduced internal emails related to travel approvals, expense reporting, and more. Additionally, Salesforce Maps enables the creation of balanced sales territories based on geographic distribution of leads, accounts, and historical revenue. This transformation is helping companies improve service and reduce costs.

Atlanta – December 18

Clay Phillips, Lead Technical Consultant, found the keynote and developer sessions particularly intriguing. Salesforce’s vision to reinvent the customer service experience is set to change how people interact with customer service. The introduction of developer-focused agents aims to help developers write more efficient code quickly. Agentforce is designed to be accessible to non-developers, making it a versatile tool for various roles within an organization.

Key Highlights

• Slack Integration: Salesforce’s Agents and Workflows in Slack has streamlined internal processes, reducing the need for emails.
• Salesforce Maps: The ability to create balanced sales territories based on geographic data helps optimize sales strategies.
• Developer-Focused Agents: These agents are designed to improve coding efficiency, making them an asset for developers.
• Accessibility: Agentforce aims to be user-friendly for both developers and non-developers, broadening its applicability.

Looking Ahead

The excitement around Agentforce is palpable, with many attendees eager to see how these innovations will impact their work. Perficient is poised to help customers leverage these tools to improve service and reduce costs. What aspect of Agentforce are you most excited about?

Additional Resources

Salesforce Agentforce Readiness Assessment

Evaluate your AI readiness with Perficient’s comprehensive assessment. Identify key use cases, ensure data security, and develop a tailored roadmap for deploying Agentforce.

Transform with Agentforce

Discover tailored AI solutions and industry-specific use cases. Leverage pre-built templates and secure data access to enhance productivity across various business departments.

Salesforce Data Cloud Readiness Assessment

Assess your infrastructure and data readiness for Data Cloud adoption. Highlight areas for improvement and create a solid migration plan to ensure a smooth transition to the cloud.

These resources provide valuable insights and practical steps to help businesses successfully implement and leverage Agentforce and Data Cloud solutions.

Ready to start your Agentforce journey? Contact us today to learn more and get started!

The Evolution of Java and Its Significance in Enterprise Applications

Java has been the go-to language for enterprise software development for decades, offering a solid and reliable platform for building scalable applications. Over the years, it has evolved with each new version.

Security Enhancements of Java 17

Long-Term Support

Java 17, being a Long-Term Support (LTS) release, is a strategic choice for enterprises using MuleSoft. The LTS status ensures that Java 17 will receive extended support, including critical security updates and patches, over the years.

This extended support is crucial for maintaining the security and stability of MuleSoft applications, often at the core of enterprise integrations and digital transformations.

By upgrading to Java 17, MuleSoft developers can ensure that their APIs and integrations are protected against newly discovered vulnerabilities, reducing the risk of security breaches that could compromise sensitive data.

The Importance of Long-Term Support

1. Stay Secure: Java 17 is an LTS release with long-term security updates and patches. Upgrading ensures your MuleSoft Applications are protected against the latest vulnerabilities, keeping your deep, safe data.
2. Better Performance: With Java 17, you get a more optimized runtime to make your MuleSoft application run faster. This means quicker response times and a smoother experience for you.
3. Industry Standards Compliance: Staying on an LTS version like Java 17 helps meet industry standards and compliance requirements. It shows that your applications are built on a stable, well-supported platform.

Getting Started with Java 17 and Anypoint Studio

Before you start upgrading your MuleSoft APIs to Java 17, it’s important to make sure your development environment is set up properly. Here are the key prerequisites to help you transition smoothly.

Install and Set Up Java 17

• Download Java 17: Get Java 17 from the Oracle Java SE or Eclipse Adoptium Downloads page, or use OpenJDK for your OS.
• Install Java 17: Run the installer and set JAVA_HOME to the Java 17 installation directory.
• Verify the Installation: Confirm Java 17 is installed by typing java-version into the terminal or command prompt.

Download and Install Anypoint Studio 7.1x Version

• Choose the Right Version: Use Anypoint Studio 7.17 for full Java 17 compatibility or 7.18 for preview features.
• Download Anypoint Studio: Visit the Anypoint Studio download page link –https://blogs.mulesoft.com/news/anypoint-studio-7-17/

Upgrading to Java 17 and Anypoint Studio

As we begin upgrading our MuleSoft Application to Java 17, we have undertaken several initial setup steps in our local and developed environments. These steps are outlined below:

Step 1

• Update the Anypoint Studio to the latest version 7.17.0.
• Please Note: If Anypoint Studio isn’t working after the update, make sure to follow Step 2 and Step 6 for troubleshooting.

Step 2

• Downloaded and installed Java 17 JDK in the local system.

Step 3

• In Anypoint Studio, we must download the latest Mule runtime, 4.6.x. For that, click on ‘Install New Software…’ under the Help section.

• Click on the Mule runtimes and select and install the 4.6.x version.

Step 6

• Now, close Anypoint Studio.
• Navigate to the Studio configuration files in Anypoint Studio and open the AnypointStudio.ini file.
• Update the path for Java 17 in the Anypoint Studio ‘ini’ file as mentioned below.
• Restart the Anypoint studio.

Step 7

• In Anypoint Studio, navigate to the Run section at the top and select Run Configurations.
• Go to the JRE section and select the Runtime JRE – Project JRE (jdk-17.0.11-9-hotspot).
  
• Go to preferences select tooling, and select Java VM Studio Service – Project JRE (jdk-17.0.11-9-hotspot)

So, our setup is complete after following all the above steps, and you can deploy your MuleSoft application on Java 17!

Conclusion

Upgrading to Java 17 is essential for enhancing the security, performance, and stability of your MuleSoft APIs. As a Long-Term Support (LTS) release, Java 17 provides extended support, modern features, and critical security updates, ensuring your applications stay robust and efficient. By installing Java 17 and configuring Anypoint Studio accordingly, you position your MuleSoft integrations for improved performance.

MuleSoft and Boomi are two popular businesses that provide reliable solutions for integrating devices, data, and apps in the constantly changing field of enterprise integration. Every platform has distinct characteristics and advantages that make it appropriate for various company requirements. To help you make a wise choice, we will examine the key features and elements of Boomi and MuleSoft in this blog.

Overview of MuleSoft and Boomi

Mulesoft

MuleSoft’s Anypoint Platform is an integration solution that focuses on API-led connectivity. It enables organizations to connect applications, data, and devices seamlessly. Key features include robust API management, extensive pre-built connectors, and a powerful data transformation language called DataWeave. MuleSoft is ideal for enterprises with complex integration needs, offering flexible deployment options (on-premises, cloud, or hybrid) and a comprehensive set of tools for building and managing APIs.

Boomi

Boomi, a Dell Technologies company, provides a cloud-based integration platform (iPaaS) service designed for ease of use. It features a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality, making it accessible to non-technical users. Boomi offers over 200 pre-built connectors and supports real-time and batch integrations. It is particularly suited for mid-sized businesses looking for rapid deployment and straightforward integration solutions without the complexity of enterprise-level features.

Integration Capabilities

MuleSoft’s Integration Capabilities

• Supports various integration patterns, including API-led integration, data integration, and event-driven architectures.
• Offers pre-built connectors for numerous applications, databases, and protocols.
• Allows for complex transformations using DataWeave, a powerful data transformation language.

Figure 1: A Mulesoft flow with four components.

Figure 2: Dataweave script used in Transform message

Figure 3: The MuleSoft Mule Palette, listing available components for building flows.

Boomi’s Integration Capabilities

• It provides a visual interface with drag-and-drop functionality, making it accessible to users without extensive technical backgrounds.
• Offers over 200 pre-built connectors and a rich library of integration processes.
• It includes real-time and batch-processing features and is suitable for various business scenarios.

Figure 4: The flow in Boomi with four main steps.

Figure 5: Mapping function used in Boomi

API Management 

MuleSoft

• Excels in API management, allowing users to design, document, secure, and analyze APIs from a single platform.

Offers features like API gateways, policy enforcement, and analytics to monitor API performance.

Figure 7: MuleSoft Anypoint Platform and available options

Boomi

• Includes API management capabilities but is more focused on integration than comprehensive API lifecycle management.
• Users can create APIs easily, but the depth of management features may not be as robust as MuleSoft’s.
  
  

  Figure 8: Management features in Boomi

MuleSoft and Boomi User Experience

MuleSoft

• The Anypoint Platform provides a unified experience for integration and API management, but it can have a steeper learning curve, particularly for new users.
• Offers extensive documentation and training resources to help users get up to speed.

Boomi

• Known for its user-friendly interface, which simplifies the integration process.
• Ideal for business users who need to quickly build and manage integrations without extensive technical expertise.

Deployment Options for MuleSoft and Boomi

MuleSoft

• Offers flexibility in deployment, including on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments.
• This versatility allows organizations to choose the best option based on their infrastructure and security requirements.

Boomi

• Primarily, it is a cloud-based solution that simplifies deployment and maintenance.
• Some users may find this limiting if they require on-premises solutions for sensitive data.

Scalability and Performance

MuleSoft

• It is suitable for enterprise-level applications and is designed to handle large-scale integrations and high data volumes.
• The architecture supports microservices, enhancing scalability and performance.

Boomi

• While Boomi is scalable, it may be better suited for mid-sized businesses or those with moderate integration needs.
• Performance can vary based on the complexity of integrations and data volume.

MuleSoft and Boomi Support and Communities

MuleSoft

• Offers a robust support system with various plans, including premium options for enterprises.
• Has a strong community and ecosystem, providing forums, events, and extensive resources for users.

Boomi

• Also provides solid customer support and a knowledge base, but the community aspect may not be as extensive as MuleSoft’s.
• Users often report quick response times and helpful support staff.

Pricing

MuleSoft

• MuleSoft offers a subscription-based pricing model containing various features and support, along with their base and support plans for every business size and requirement. The pricing structure of MuleSoft can be complicated, and additional costs may be added when one uses advanced services like API and data quality management. Here’s a pricing reference: https://www.mulesoft.com/anypoint-pricing

Boomi

• Boomi is priced on a subscription basis depending on the specific functionality the businesses seek and the scale at which it is offered. The pricing will most likely fluctuate depending on the number of integrations, used connectors, and volume of data processed. Here’s the pricing reference: https://boomi.com/pricing/

When Should You Choose MuleSoft or Boomi?

When to Choose MuleSoft?

Here are key considerations for selecting the MuleSoft integration platform:

• When your organization requires a robust platform capable of managing complex integrations.
• When you have a technically proficient team of developers who can handle a code-centric approach when necessary.
• When customization is a critical requirement for your business operations.

When to Choose Boomi?

Consider selecting the Boomi integration platform in the following scenarios:

• When the primary goal is quick integration, even if it involves limited customization.
• Ease of use is a key priority and must be a seamless experience.
• When there is a significant need for cloud-based integrations.

Conclusion

Although Boomi and MuleSoft have strong integration features, their user bases and business requirements differ. MuleSoft excels at enterprise-level scalability and complex API management, which makes it the perfect choice for big businesses with complex integration needs. However, Boomi is a fantastic option for companies looking for efficient integration solutions due to its user-friendly interface and speedy deployment.

Your unique needs, technical know-how, and long-term integration plan will determine which of MuleSoft and Boomi is best for you. Both systems offer the resources required to support successful integration endeavors, regardless of your preference for a simple user interface or strong API administration.

One of Salesforce’s most important customization features is designing the interface to meet user needs. Tools such as Lightning Record Pages and Page Layouts serve similar purposes in shaping the user experience but have distinct differences. Let’s explore each one to understand its actions and when to use it.

What are Lightning Record Pages?

A Lightning Record Page is a customizable page layout used in Salesforce Lightning Experience. It’s designed to display detailed information about a specific record, such as an Account, Contact, Opportunity, etc. The layout consists of components like related lists, charts, reports, and other dynamic elements that can be placed anywhere on the page.

Key Features of Lightning Record Pages

• Customizable: You can design your own pages using Salesforce’s drag-and-drop tools.
• Component-Based: It allows you to add various pre-built or custom components, like lists, charts, and Lightning App Builder components, to enhance the page.
• User-Specific: Different layouts can be created for different user profiles, devices, or page types (like mobile or desktop).
• Multiple Views: You can create different layouts for different purposes or audiences within your organization.
• Dynamic and Flexible: Lightning Record Pages make it simple to organize sections and components, providing a dynamic user experience. Because of this adaptability, users can customize their view to meet their own requirements.

What are Page Layouts?

A Page Layout is the traditional method of controlling the arrangement of fields, buttons, and links on a record page. Page Layouts allow you to specify which fields are visible, read-only, or required for a particular record type. It’s primarily focused on structuring the form-like part of a record.

Key Features of Page Layouts

• Field Control: You can decide which fields appear and how they are arranged.
• Record Details: It includes fields, buttons, and related lists on the page, but it doesn’t include advanced components like charts.
• Standard Views: Page Layouts are generally more static compared to Lightning Record Pages.
• User Profiles: Different layouts can be assigned to different profiles, ensuring that users see the relevant data.

Key Differences Between Lightning Record Pages and Page Layouts

Feature	Lightning Record Pages	Page Layouts
Customization	Highly customizable with drag-and-drop components	Limited customization (mainly fields, buttons, and related lists)
Components	Can add dynamic components like charts, related lists, and custom components	Primarily focused on fields, buttons, and related lists
User Experience	Allows a more modern, dynamic user interface with customizable layouts based on device or user role	A more static, form-based interface that only focuses on fields
Visibility	Can customize visibility based on user profiles, devices, or record types	Controls field visibility based on user profiles
Device Compatibility	Mobile-friendly and responsive, with pages designed for both desktop and mobile	Desktop-based, although mobile users will see it too
Tool for Customization	Uses Lightning App Builder to customize the layout	Uses the standard Page Layout editor for customizing the fields and related lists
Purpose	Focuses on creating a richer user interface with more flexible layouts	Focuses on controlling which fields and sections are displayed on a record page

When to Use Lightning Record Pages vs. Page Layouts

• Use Lightning Record Pages when you want to create a dynamic, customizable user experience. If you need to add charts, reports, or other components that go beyond basic fields, Lightning Record Pages are the way to go. They offer a richer and more modern interface and can be tailored to meet specific user needs.
• Use Page Layouts to control which fields appear and how they are arranged on a record. This will ensure that users can quickly view or edit specific fields without worrying about advanced components.

Conclusion

In Salesforce, both Lightning Record Pages and Page Layouts are essential for creating customized user experiences, but they serve different purposes. Lightning Record Pages are more flexible and suited for modern, component-driven page designs, while Page Layouts focus on controlling the traditional data-entry form view. Understanding when and how to use each tool is key to creating the best possible Salesforce experience for your users.

Optimizely Spire CMS provides a feature to create variants of CMS pages. Page variants are variations of a website page with rules for displaying it to end users. Optimizely Spire CMS supports page variants for all CMS pages, including the header and footer. The primary purpose of that user is to see different variations of the same page.

Optimizely Spire CMS provides a feature to apply rule types on page variants. Optimizely Configured Commerce supports creating custom rule types and rule type options to further use the Rules Engine. The basic requirement of creating a custom rule type or using OOTB on a rule type is that users can see different CMS pages as per the applied rule type.

This blog provides complete information on creating custom rule-type options. The steps below will help create a custom rule type option in the Optimizely Configured Commerce solution that can be used in the Optimizely Spire CMS.

How to Create a Custom Rule Type Option in Optimizely Spire CMS

1. Open Optimizely Configured Commerce solution in Visual Studio.
2. Go to the “Extensions” class library.
3. Create a new class, “CustomRuleTypeOption,” and inherit it from the “CriteriaTypeBase” base class. Add Dependency Name attribute with a name of “CustomRuleTypeOption“.
4. Implement inherited abstract class members.
5. Change the DisplayName property value to “Custom Rule Type Option“.
6. Override the remaining properties value.
7. To show custom rule type option field in CMS, we need to override the “ParameterDescriptions” property and set “Label” and “ValueType” value.
8. Override the Validate method and add business logic to validate the input value specified in the CMS. If “true” is returned, the user will see the page variant. If “false” is returned, the user will see the default page.
9. Rebuild the solution.
10. Login in Admin.
11. Go to Administration -> System -> Rule Types listing page.
12. Open the “Page” rule type from the listing page.
13. Go to “Rule Options” tab and click on “Rule Type Option” button.
14. Enter “Description” and select the custom rule type option from the “Criteria Type” dropdown and click on the “Save” button.
15. Log in as a content admin and click the “Edit” icon.
16. Go to any page and create a variant of the page. For example, go to Header and click on More Options (…).
17. Select “Create Variant“.
18. Enter a “Variant Name”, select “Copy Content from Default” and click on “Save” button.
19. Select the custom rule type option from the rule type dropdown, enter the value, and click the save button.
20. As per the rule type, verify the variant page on the site.

References:

1. https://support.optimizely.com/hc/en-us/articles/4413199746317-Manage-page-variants
2. https://docs.developers.optimizely.com/configured-commerce/docs/create-custom-rule-type-option-for-cms-variants
3. https://support.optimizely.com/hc/en-us/articles/4413200007437-Rule-type-options

In Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), variables, data types, and constants are fundamental building blocks that allow you to create dynamic and efficient macros. Let’s explore these concepts in detail.

Variables in VBA

A variable is a named storage location in your computer’s memory that contains data. Variables make your code more flexible by allowing you to store and manipulate data dynamically.

Declaring Variables

In VBA, you declare variables using the Dim keyword, followed by the variable name and, optionally, its data type. For example:

Dim employeeName As String
Dim employeeID As Integer
Dim salary As Double

Benefits of Declaring Variables

• Clarity: Makes code easier to read and understand.
• Performance: Improves execution speed by specifying data types.
• Debugging: Helps catch errors during code execution.

Scope of Variables

Variables in VBA can have different scopes:

• Procedure-Level Scope: Declared within a subroutine or function and accessible only within that procedure.
• Module-Level Scope: Declared at the top of a module and accessible to all procedures within that module.
• Global Scope: Declared using the Publickeyword, making them accessible across all modules.

Data Types in VBA

The type of data that a variable can store is determined by its data type. Choosing the right data type is crucial for optimizing memory usage and ensuring accuracy.

Common VBA Data Types

String: Stores text.

Dim productName As String 
productName = "Laptop"

Integer: Stores whole numbers.

Dim quantity As Integer 
quantity = 10

Double: Stores decimal numbers.

Dim price As Double 
price = 999.99

Boolean: Stores True or False values.

Dim isActive As Boolean 
isActive = True

Constants in VBA

Constants are similar to variables, but their values do not change once assigned. A constant can be declared using the ⁣ keywordConst.

Const TaxRate As Double = 0.05

Constants make code easier to read and lower the possibility of unintentional changes to crucial values.

Working with Loops, Conditions, and Functions in VBA

Loop conditions and functions are essential programming constructs that make your VBA macros dynamic and intelligent.

Loops in VBA

You can run a block of code repeatedly with loops. VBA supports several types of loops:

For Loop

AForloop can be used to run a block of code a predetermined number of times.

Dim i As Integer
For i = 1 To 10
    Debug.Print i
Next i

While Loop

AWhile loop continues as long as a condition is True.

Dim x As Integer
x = 1
While x <= 5
    Debug.Print x
    x = x + 1
Wend

Do Until Loop

The Do Until loop executes code until a condition becomes True.

Dim y As Integer
y = 1
Do Until y > 5
    Debug.Print y
    y = y + 1
Loop

Conditions in VBA

Conditions enable decision-making in your code. Use If...Then...Else statements to execute different blocks of code based on conditions.

Dim score As Integer
score = 85

If score >= 90 Then
    Debug.Print "Grade: A"
ElseIf score >= 75 Then
    Debug.Print "Grade: B"
Else
    Debug.Print "Grade: C"
End If

Functions in VBA

Functions in VBA allow you to encapsulate reusable blocks of code. They can accept parameters and return a result.

Function CalculateArea(length As Double, width As Double) As Double
    CalculateArea = length * width
End Function

Sub TestFunction()
    Dim area As Double
    area = CalculateArea(5, 10)
    Debug.Print "Area: " & area
End Sub

Conclusion

Understanding variables, data types, constants, loops, conditions, and functions is essential for creating powerful VBA macros. By mastering these concepts, you can write efficient code that automates repetitive tasks and enhances productivity.

Ensure you’ve set up your environment correctly to get the most out of VBA. Check out my blog, which has a comprehensive guide on how to set up VBA in Excel.

I am always looking to write better, more performant and cleaner code. GitHub Copilot checks all the boxes and makes my life easier. I have been using it since the 2021 public beta, the hype is real!

According to the GitHub Copilot website, it is:

“The world’s most widely adopted AI developer tool.”  

While that sounds impressive, the proof is in the features that help the average developer produce higher quality code, faster. It doesn’t replace a human developer, but that is not the point. The name says it all, it’s a tool designed to work alongside developers. 

When we look at the stats, we see some very impressive numbers:

• 75% of developers report more satisfaction with their jobs 

• 90% of Fortune 100 companies use Copilot 

• With 55% of developers prefer Copilot 

• Developers report a 25% increase in speed 

Day in the Life

I primarily use Copilot for code completion and test cases for ReactJS and JavaScript code.

When typing predictable text such as “document” in a JavaScript file, Copilot will review the current file and public repositories to provide a context correct completion. This is helpful when I create new code or update existing code. Code suggestion via Copilot chat enables me to ask for possible solutions to a problem. “How do I type the output of this function in Typescript?”  

Additionally, it can explain existing code, “Explain lines 29-54.” Any developer out there should be able to see the value there. An example of this power comes from one of my colleagues: 

“Copilot’s getting better all the time. When I first started using it, maybe 10% of the time I’d be unable to use its suggestions because it didn’t make sense at all. The other day I had it refactor two classes by moving the static functions and some common logic into a static third class that the other two used, and it was pretty much correct, down to style. Took me maybe thirty seconds to figure out how to tell Copilot what to do and another thirty seconds for it to do the work.” 

Generally, developers dislike writing comments.  Worry not, Copilot can do that! In fact, I use it to write the first draft of every comment in my code.  Copilot goes a step further and writes user tests from the context of a file — “Write Jest tests for this file.”  

One of my favorite tools is “/fix” – which provides an attempt to resolve any errors in the code. This is not limited to errors visible in the IDE. Occasionally after compilation, there will be one or more errors. Asking Copilot to fix these errors is often successful, even though the error(s) may not visible. The enterprise version will even create commented pull requests! 

Although these features are amazing, there are methods to get the most out of it. You must be as specific as possible. This is most important when using code suggestions.

If I ask “I need this code to solve the problem created by the other functions” — I am not likely to get a helpful solution. However, if I ask “Using lines 10 – 150, and the following functions (a, b, and c) from file two, give me a solution that will solve the problem.”

It is key whenever possible, to break up the requests into small tasks. 

Copilot Wave 2 

The future of Copilot is exciting, indeed. While I have been talking about GitHub Copilot, the entire Microsoft universe is getting the “Copilot” treatment. In what Microsoft calls Copilot Wave 2, it is added to Microsoft 365.  

Wave 2 features include: 

• Python for Excel 

• Email prioritization in Outlook 

• Team Copilot 

• Better transcripts with the ability to ask Copilot a simple question as we would a co-worker, “What did I miss?”  

The most exciting new Copilot feature is Copilot Agents.  

“Agents are AI assistants designed to automate and execute business processes, working with or for humans. They range in capability from simple, prompt-and-response agents to agents that replace repetitive tasks to more advanced, fully autonomous agents.” 

With this functionality, the entire Microsoft ecosystem will benefit. Using agents, it would be possible to find information quickly in SharePoint across all the sites and other content areas. Agents can autonomously function and are not like chatbots. Chatbots work on a script, whereas Agents function with the full knowledge of an LLM. I.E. a service agent could provide documentation on the fly based on an English description of a problem. Or answer questions from a human with very human responses based on technical data or specifications. 

There is a new Copilot Studio, providing a low code solution allowing more people the ability to create agents. 

GitHub Copilot is continually updated as well. Since May, there is a private beta for Copilot extensions. This allows third-party vendors to utilize the natural language processing power of Copilot inside of GitHub, a major enhancement jumping Copilot to GPT-4o, and Copilot extensions which will provide customers the ability to use plugins and extensions to expand functionality. 

Conclusion

Using these features with Copilot, I save between 15-25% of my day writing code. Freeing me up for other tasks. I’m excited to see how Copilot Agents will evolve into new tools to increase developer productivity.

For more information about Perficient’s Mobile Solutions expertise, subscribe to our blog or contact our Mobile Solutions team today!

Guide to Setting Up VBA in Excel

VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) is an essential tool for automating repetitive tasks and creating custom solutions in Microsoft Excel. This Blog will walk you through the steps to set up VBA and get started with your first macro.

Step 1: Enable the Developer Tab for VBA in Excel

To use VBA in Excel, you must first enable the Developer tab. Here’s how:

1. Open Excel and click on the “File” menu in the top-left corner.
2. Select “Options” from the menu.
3. In the Excel Options dialogue, choose “Customize Ribbon.“
4. Under the “Main Tab” section on the right, check the box for “Developer” and click “OK.”.

Step 2: Open the VBA Editor and Start Writing Code

Once the Developer tab is visible, you can access the VBA editor:

1. Go to the “Developer” tab on the Excel ribbon.
2. Click on “Visual Basic” in the **Code** group. Alternatively, press “ALT + F11” to open the VBA editor directly.

Step 3: Add a New Module for VBA Macros

Before you can start writing VBA code, you need to add a module:

1. In the VBA editor, click on the “Insert” menu.
2. Select “Module” from the dropdown. A new module will appear in the Project Explorer.

Step 4: Create Your First Macro in Excel with VBA

With the module ready, you can begin coding. Here’s an example of a simple macro that displays a message box:

Sub ShowMessage()
MsgBox "Welcome to VBA!"
End Sub

When executed, this macro will show a message box with the text “Welcome to VBA!”.

Step 5: Running Macros in Excel: Execute VBA Code

To execute your macro, follow these steps:

1. Close the VBA editor to return to the Excel window.
2. On the “Developer tab,” click Macros in the Code group.
3. Select the macro you wrote (e.g., `ShowMessage`) from the list and click “Run.”.

Conclusion

You’ve now successfully enabled VBA, written your first macro, and executed it in Excel! VBA is a powerful tool that can save time by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing your spreadsheets. As you continue to explore VBA, you’ll discover advanced capabilities that can transform your workflow and boost productivity.

To further ensure the security of your macros, it’s essential to know how to enable or disable them in Microsoft 365 files. You can refer to the below post:

Enable or disable macros in Microsoft 365 files

Happy reading and automating!

Meet Gayathri Venkatraman, a senior project manager based in Chennai, India. She has been with Perficient for eight years, and during that time, she has had the opportunity to grow professionally, take on leadership roles, and mentor others in their own career journeys. 

In this People of Perficient profile, we’ll get a glimpse into Gayathri’s role as a senior project manager, learn about her proudest accomplishments both personally and professionally, and discover how her experiences at Perficient have shaped her growth.  

What is your role? Please describe a typical day in the life.

In my role as a Senior Project Manager, a typical day involves balancing a mix of leadership and individual responsibilities. I start the day by reviewing ongoing projects, ensuring deadlines are on track, and addressing any issues. I often have meetings with my team to collaborate on project goals and offer guidance where needed. Mentoring plays a significant part in my day, whether during one-on-one sessions or informal conversations where I help team members with career advice and skill development. 

How do you explain your job to family, friends, or children? 

I help teams plan and organize their work to complete projects on time and within budget. It’s like being a coach — making sure everyone knows their role, keeping track of progress, and solving any problems along the way. I also ensure we follow all rules and regulations, similar to a referee in a game. I review processes and policies to ensure we’re doing things the right way and avoiding any legal issues. 

What are your proudest accomplishments, personally and professionally? Any milestone moments at Perficient? 

One of my proudest personal accomplishments is that I’m pursuing my passion for dance while working full-time. This involves effectively managing my time, dedicating evenings and weekends to classes and rehearsals, and finding ways to integrate creativity and rhythm into my leadership style. I use the discipline from dance to enhance my organizational skills.  

I am deeply passionate about dance and teaching underprivileged children. Dance allows me to express creativity and maintain a sense of balance and joy, while teaching children gives me the opportunity to make a direct impact on their lives. I find immense fulfillment in helping them grow, learn, and discover their potential, especially in situations where resources or opportunities may be limited. It’s a way for me to give back and contribute to my community. 

I’m also proud of being a working mom. I balance family and career by prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, and staying organized while also making time for self-care and involving my family in the planning. 

Professionally, I’m proud of being a good leader and prioritizing team development as well as process improvements. One milestone moment I’ve had at Perficient is when I received an Extra Mile Award for my contributions, which validated the hard work I put in. 

What has your experience at Perficient taught you? 

My experience at Perficient has taught me the importance of adaptability in a fast-paced environment. I’ve also learned the value of collaboration in problem-solving and how to communicate complex technical concepts clearly. Additionally, my experience has emphasized the significance of continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends to drive innovation and efficiency. 

What advice would you give to colleagues who are starting their career with Perficient? 

Focus on continuous learning, build meaningful connections, and always be open to feedback and new opportunities. You are in the best place to grow, so make use of the opportunities! 

Learn More: Perficient’s Award-Winning Growth For Everyone Program 

What is the culture like on your team and at Perficient?

The culture at Perficient emphasizes open communication, continuous improvement, and a strong sense of mutual support. My team is dynamic and diverse in terms of skill sets, which helps bring fresh perspectives to problem-solving and innovation. We maintain a balance between being results-oriented and fostering a positive, relaxed atmosphere where all ideas are valued. Overall, the culture promotes inclusivity, professional development, and a healthy work-life balance. 

See More: Perficient Prioritizes a People-Centric Culture 

Why are you Proudly Perficient? 

I proudly represent Perficient because of its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and colleagues’ professional growth. The company fosters an environment where creativity and diverse perspectives are valued, allowing me to meaningfully contribute to impactful projects.  

Additionally, Perficient’s focus on work-life balance aligns with my personal values, enabling me to pursue passions outside of work, such as teaching underprivileged children and dancing. Being part of a team that prioritizes both colleague development and community impact makes me proud to be a part of this organization. 

Read More: Discover How Perficient Colleagues Are Giving Back 

What motivates you in your daily work? 

I find motivation in solving complex problems, collaborating with talented colleagues, and learning new skills. Knowing that my contributions help drive success and growth — whether it’s for the company, clients, or my personal development — provides a sense of purpose and keeps me energized. The culture of support and recognition encourages me to push boundaries and improve every day. 

How have you grown your career with Perficient? 

I’ve focused on taking advantage of the opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and hands-on projects. I’ve sought out challenging assignments that allow me to expand my skills and take on more responsibility. 

I’m proactive in learning new technologies and methodologies, which align with my team’s goals and the broader business objectives. Through this, I’ve been able to steadily progress in my role. Additionally, the support from leadership and access to a collaborative network of colleagues have been instrumental in my growth within the company. 

With Perficient’s mission statement in mind, how do you shatter boundaries? 

I consistently push myself beyond my comfort zone, take calculated risks, and embrace challenges that require innovative thinking. By staying curious, asking questions, and learning from those around me, I’m able to break through limitations and discover new opportunities for growth.  

I look for ways to collaborate across different teams and disciplines because diverse perspectives often lead to groundbreaking solutions. Staying open to feedback and being adaptable are key components that help me continue to challenge and exceed expectations. 

If you had to define yourself using one Perficient value, which would it be and why? 

Pride. I take great satisfaction in the work I do, the values I uphold, and the positive impact I strive to make. Pride, for me, stems from knowing that I am always giving my best effort, supporting my team, and growing both personally and professionally. It’s about having confidence in my abilities while remaining humble and eager to learn. I am proud of the resilience, curiosity, and adaptability I bring to challenges, which helps me push boundaries and continue evolving. 

What’s one thing you wish your colleagues knew about you? 

One thing I wish my colleagues knew about me is that I’m always eager to mentor and support them in their professional growth. I enjoy helping others navigate challenges, share insights, and develop their skills to advance in their careers. 

SEE MORE PEOPLE OF PERFICIENT  

It’s no secret our success is because of our people. No matter the technology or time zone, our colleagues are committed to delivering innovative, end-to-end digital solutions for the world’s biggest brands, and we bring a collaborative spirit to every interaction. We’re always seeking the best and brightest to work with us. Join our team and experience a culture that challenges, champions, and celebrates our people.   

Visit our Careers page to see career opportunities and more!   

Go inside Life at Perficient  and connect with us on LinkedIn,   YouTube, Twitter,   Facebook,  TikTok, and Instagram.   

The future of the manufacturing industry is here, and Perficient is excited to be part of it! Join us at the Salesforce Manufacturing Summit, where people and AI come together to drive better connections and transform the industry. Are you ready for it?

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST
Location: JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead Atlanta, GA 30326
Registration: Register Here | Space is limited, so don’t wait to sign up.

What to Expect

This full-day event is packed with opportunities to learn, network, and innovate. Here’s a glimpse of what you can look forward to:

• Industry Insights: Hear from trailblazers and thought leaders about the latest trends and opportunities in manufacturing.
• Agentforce for Manufacturing: Dive into Agentforce, build your first Salesforce Agent, and see how AI can revolutionize your operations.
• Product Demos: Experience live demonstrations of Salesforce solutions tailored for the manufacturing sector.
• Roundtable Discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations with peers and experts to share insights and best practices.
• Networking: Connect with industry professionals and expand your network.

Transforming Manufacturing with Salesforce

Salesforce for Manufacturing, powered by Agentforce, is designed to modernize commercial operations, transform service experiences, simplify partner engagement, and translate data into intelligent insights and actions. Here are some of the real-world results manufacturers have achieved with Salesforce:

• 21% Faster Case Resolution: Salesforce enables manufacturers to significantly reduce the time needed to close service cases.
• 60% Automated Warranty Claims: Enhance efficiency and accuracy by automating up to 60% of warranty claims with Salesforce.
• 30% Increase in ROI: Achieve a higher return on investment with intelligent solutions specifically designed for the manufacturing sector.

Key Solutions

• Modernize Business Operations: Oversee your entire business portfolio, break down silos, and facilitate collaboration between sales and operations teams.
• Enhance Service Experiences: Deliver quicker and more intelligent service from the contact center to field technicians and customers.
• Streamline Partner Engagement: Increase visibility, engagement, and performance among your channel partners.

Manufacturing Cloud

At the core of these advancements is the Manufacturing Cloud, the leading AI CRM for the manufacturing industry. This digital customer engagement platform integrates the entire value chain, infusing AI insights into your daily operations. With Manufacturing Cloud, you can:

• Align Opportunities with Demand Forecasts: Unify sales opportunities with accurate demand predictions.
• Enhance Service Speed: Deliver faster service to customers, distributors, and their products/assets.
• Incorporate AI Insights: Integrate AI-driven insights into your everyday business processes.

Get More Value with Industries AI

Don’t miss this opportunity to see how Salesforce and Perficient can help you drive remarkable results in the manufacturing industry. We look forward to seeing you there!

Meet Our Experts:

Our team of experts will be available for meetings throughout the event. Don’t miss the chance to connect with:

• Johnathon Rademacher | Principal
• Stephen Meyer| Portfolio Specialist
• Marcus Sandelowsky| Senior Solutions Architect

Want to learn more about Agentforce before the Summit? Check out the following resources: 

Transform with Agentforce: Discover tailored AI solutions and industry-specific use cases. Leverage pre-built templates and secure data access to enhance productivity across various business departments.

Perficient Joins Salesforce’s Agentforce Partner Network: Learn about Perficient’s addition to the Agentforce Partner Network, a groundbreaking ecosystem introduced by Salesforce. This network is designed to revolutionize how businesses leverage AI agents to enhance customer success and operational efficiency.

Salesforce Agentforce Readiness Assessment: Evaluate your AI readiness with Perficient’s comprehensive assessment. Identify key use cases, ensure data security, and develop a tailored roadmap for deploying Agentforce.

Can’t Make Salesforce Manufacturing Summit? 

Don’t worry!  Schedule some time with us  and let our experts fill you in. And stay tuned to our Salesforce blog for all our post-conference insights.