Systems
Performance
Plain English
How fast and smooth something runs.
Definition
Performance refers to how quickly and efficiently a glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term responds to user actions and glossaryProcessA process is a defined sequence of steps used to achieve a specific outcome.Open glossary term tasks.
In practice
Measured through load times, glossaryResponsivenessResponsiveness is how well a design adapts across screen sizes and devices, keeping content readable and actions reachable at any width. It relies on fluid layouts rather than fixed dimensions.Open glossary term, and glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term glossaryEfficiencyEfficiency measures how quickly and easily users can complete tasks once they are familiar with a system.Open glossary term across different conditions.
In context
The number that matters is the one users feel, usually the slowest tenth of glossaryRequestA request is an action sent from a client to a server asking for data or a service.Open glossary term, not the average. Averages hide the experience that generates the complaints.
The reality
Performance issues are often only addressed after users complain or metrics drop.
Compared with
Performance vs Perceived Performance
Performance is what the glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term measures. Perceived performance is how long it feels. Skeleton screens and optimistic updates improve the second without touching the first, and users respond to the second.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is performance in systems?
It is how quickly and efficiently a glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term operates.
Why is performance important?
It directly impacts serviceUser ExperienceImprove journeys, reduce friction, and make digital products clearer, simpler, and easier to move through.Open service and glossaryConversionA conversion is any action a user takes that aligns with a defined goal, such as making a purchase, signing up, or completing a task.Open glossary term.
How is performance measured?
Through speed, load times, and glossaryResponsivenessResponsiveness is how well a design adapts across screen sizes and devices, keeping content readable and actions reachable at any width. It relies on fluid layouts rather than fixed dimensions.Open glossary term.
What affects performance?
Code quality, glossaryInfrastructureInfrastructure refers to the underlying systems and resources that support applications and services.Open glossary term, and glossarySystem LoadSystem load refers to the amount of demand placed on a system at a given time.Open glossary term.
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