C++ Footprint and Performance Optimization

Beginning Your Optimization

A general misconception is that optimizing software is the simple act of replacing evil bits of code (too large, inefficient, or slow) with good bits of code (lean, efficient, and fast). Although this is certainly part of the optimization process, it is not all there is to it. Working under such a premise means that valuable optimization opportunities are overlooked. This is because the process of optimization really consists of these equally important steps:

• Finding candidate areas for optimization

• Analyzing the candidate areas and selecting targets for optimization

• Performing the design and implementation of the optimizations

The next sections discuss the theory behind these optimization steps, as well as the human ...