To distribute and sell applications to customers, ISVs are required to use which of the following:

Managed Packages vs. Unmanaged Packages for ISVs

Managed Packages vs. Unmanaged Packages:

When it comes to distributing and selling applications to customers, Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) have the option of using Managed Packages or Unmanaged Packages in Salesforce. But which one is the primary method employed by ISVs?

Managed Packages:

Managed packages are a type of distribution model used by ISVs in Salesforce. They allow ISVs to bundle a collection of related items into one package that can be distributed and sold on AppExchange, Salesforce's marketplace for enterprise apps. Managed packages offer a level of control and security, allowing ISVs to protect their intellectual property and provide a seamless experience for customers.

Unmanaged Packages:

On the other hand, Unmanaged Packages also exist in Salesforce. They are typically used in open-source projects where users are free to alter the source code. Unmanaged packages are not usually used for selling purposes, as they do not offer the same level of control and protection as Managed Packages. They are more suited for collaborative development and customization within a sandbox environment.

Final Answer:

The use of 'Managed Packages' is the primary method employed by ISVs for distributing and selling applications to customers primarily in Salesforce, unlike 'Unmanaged Packages' which are usually used for open-source projects.

Explanation:

To distribute and sell applications to customers, ISVs typically use Managed Packages. Managed packages provide a secure and controlled environment for packaging and distributing apps on the Salesforce platform. They offer features such as versioning, licensing, and upgradeability, making them the preferred choice for commercial software vendors.

While Unmanaged Packages have their place in Salesforce development, they are not typically used for selling purposes. Unmanaged packages lack the control and protection offered by Managed Packages, making them more suitable for scenarios where source code customization is necessary.

Therefore, Managed packages are the preferred option for distributing and selling applications, providing a container for something as small as an individual component or as large as a set of related apps.