Automation Data Views

In the past, configuring SAP in Marketing Cloud required extensive support from the technical team, often taking weeks to complete. However, with recent improvements, this process has become much more streamlined, allowing it to be completed within a few days.

Step-by-Step Guide to SAP Configuration

1. Ownership of the Root Domain

First Step: Ensure that the client owns the root domain. A root domain is the highest level of a website, such as example.com, which must be set up with a domain registrar. Once you own the root domain, you can authenticate any subdomain connected to it for sending emails.

Recommended Practice: Use the root domain for your primary web server and subdomains for your sending activities.

2. Basic Settings and Domain Verification

Complete Basic Settings in Marketing Cloud Next:
- Begin by configuring the basic settings of Marketing Cloud Next.
Configure Email Channels:
- The first step is to complete the domain verification.
Authenticate a Domain for Sending:
- Work with your IT team to authenticate the domain.
- From Setup, in the Quick Find box, enter Authenticated Domains, and then select Email Authenticated Domains.
- Click Add Domain.
Enter Subdomain Information:
- Review the confirmation modal and click Continue.
- Enter the subdomain information you want to use for sending, and then click Submit.
Customize the Email Address (Optional):
- To customize the email address for sending, click Create New and edit the Display Name and Username fields.
Configure DNS Records:
- Configure your DNS records with your domain registrar.
- After completing the configuration process, verify that you have uploaded the DNS records and click Verify Domain.
Verification Process:
- Once you complete the domain configuration, it will take 24 to 48 hours to complete. You will receive a success or failure notification.
In Case of Failure: Refer to the following article for troubleshooting: Salesforce Help Article

Create Your From Address and Configure RMM

Create Your From Address:
- This replaces the "Sender Profile" from the legacy Marketing Cloud.
- Define the email address and display name that recipients will see.
- This step is crucial for brand consistency and deliverability.
Configure RMM (Reply Mail Management):
- RMM allows you to manage replies to your marketing emails.
- You can set up rules for handling auto-replies, out-of-office responses, and customer replies.
- This helps keep your inbox organized and ensures important responses are not missed.

Understanding SPF, DKIM, and DMARC

Why Check SPF, DKIM, and DMARC?

Sender Policy Framework (SPF):
- SPF aims to reduce spam and fraud by verifying who is permitted to send emails on your behalf. It improves message deliverability, protects domain credibility, and enhances user trust.
DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM):
- DKIM uses a digital signature to verify that an email was sent by the claimed domain and has not been altered in transit. Salesforce uses DKIM to sign outbound emails, ensuring recipients that the emails are handled consistently with your company’s policies.
Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance (DMARC):
- DMARC is built on top of SPF and DKIM protocols. It determines what to do with messages if neither authentication method passes. Salesforce supports and recommends DMARC for enhanced email security.