Web Performance Tuning

Methodology for Performance Consulting

Here is a methodology I use when beginning to look at a web site’s performance problems. It reflects the point of view of an outside consultant brought in for a fresh look at the problems.

First, start a log and write down the date, who the customer is, and what the approximate problem is. Whatever you do or talk about, write it down. Not only will this help you when you need to remember passwords and what exactly you changed, but it is also useful for writing reports later.

Next, resist the urge to just start twiddling parameters. The webmaster you’re working with may tell you what he or she thinks is wrong and ask you to change something right off. Just say no. That’s a rathole you don’t want to enter. You need to do some analysis first. Likewise, if the webmaster asks for your first impression, don’t respond. If you do, he or she is quite likely to go into that rathole alone and drag you in behind. Point out that there are no magic bullets (or, at least, very few of them), and that slow and steady wins the race.

Write down, in as much detail as you can, what the perceived problem is and what the webmaster or users think caused the problem. Listen hard. Remember that performance problems always come down to unhappy people somewhere, and that success means making them happy rather than resolving all technical issues.

Ask what performance data has been collected so far. Has the customer run any benchmarks, or tried any solutions? Benchmark and ...