What should the data architect look for when troubleshooting queries that are timing out in Salesforce?

When troubleshooting queries that are timing out in Salesforce, it is important to ensure the query doesn’t contain NULL in any filter criteria. This is significant because including NULL in filter criteria can greatly affect the efficiency and performance of the query. If a field being queried has NULL values and is part of the filtering process, Salesforce may need to perform additional checks that can lead to longer execution times or even timeouts.

By excluding NULL values from filter criteria or handling them properly, one can reduce the complexity of the query and improve performance. This approach aligns with best practices for database querying, where unnecessary complexity is minimized to enhance responsiveness, especially in environments where data volume is high.

The other options do not address the core issue of query performance as effectively. Adjusting user permissions, such as granting "View All Data," does not inherently affect the efficiency of a query. Creating custom indexes is a solution but may not address the specific problem of NULL values impacting query performance immediately. Lastly, while using formula fields can be helpful for some scenarios, it may complicate queries further rather than streamline them, especially when it comes to filtering criteria.

Overall, focusing on removing or properly handling NULL values in filter conditions is a vital step in optimizing query performance in Salesforce.