Definition
A simpler custom application on the Salesforce Lightning Platform with fewer tabs and functionality. It's typically used for lightweight use cases that need limited custom objects and basic automation.
Real-World Example
an architect at Skyline Consulting recently implemented Lightning Platform Light App to extend their Salesforce implementation to meet growing business demands. Lightning Platform Light App provides the additional capability they need without requiring a separate third-party system, keeping everything within the trusted Salesforce ecosystem and reducing integration complexity.
Why Lightning Platform Light App Matters
A Lightning Platform Light App is a simpler custom application on the Salesforce Lightning Platform designed for lightweight use cases. Compared to a full Enterprise App, Light Apps typically have fewer tabs, fewer custom objects, simpler automation, and lighter customization. They're appropriate when you need a custom Salesforce app for a specific limited purpose but don't need the complexity (or licensing cost) of a full enterprise application.
The Light App concept reflects Salesforce's recognition that not every custom app needs the full platform tier. For small, focused use cases, lighter licensing tiers can be more cost-effective. The exact licensing details have evolved over time, so current pricing should be verified with Salesforce documentation. Knowing about the distinction helps when planning Salesforce deployments and matching license tiers to actual use case requirements.
How Organizations Use Lightning Platform Light App
- •Skyline Consulting — Helps clients evaluate whether Light App or Enterprise App licensing fits their custom application needs based on complexity.
- •NovaScale — Built a small internal request tracking app as a Light App rather than the full enterprise tier, matching the lighter licensing to the simpler use case.
- •BrightEdge Solutions — Treats Light App versus Enterprise App as a cost-versus-capability trade-off to evaluate per use case.