Salesforce lightning is a component-based framework for application development, which has a collection of TOOLS and technologies that aim to effectively increment the performance of the Salesforce platform. These tools include an entirely new version of a framework, visual UPGRADES, new and optimized interfaces, and more. It is designed to simplify processes for business users, who do not have any programming experience.

Using the lightning platform we can easily create apps that solve business problems and provide engaging experiences.

Few lightning features are:

• Lightning app builder: It provides drag and drop capacities to facilitate the CREATION of an application and customization.
• Lightning component framework: It CONSISTS of tools and extensions that allow the development of reusable components and standalone applications along with customization of the Salesforce mobile app.
• AppExchange for components: It makes over 50 partner components present in the app builder.
• Design system: It provides style guides and user experience practices for application development.
• Lightning Connect: It is an integration tool that makes it easier for applications of Force.com to consume data from an external source that meets the OData SPECIFICATION.