Optimize the Work Before Optimizing the Code

When software feels slow, engineers often start by optimizing code. That is sometimes the right move. It is rarely the first question.

Before changing an algorithm, ask what work the system is doing, why it is doing it, and whether the user needs the result at all. Removing unnecessary work beats making necessary work five percent faster.

Efficiency starts with subtraction

Fewer requests, smaller payloads, simpler workflows, and clearer ownership can outperform clever local optimizations. Measure the whole path before polishing one function.