Frontend Optimization Handbook

Chapter 3. Process

“Plans are of little importance, but planning is essential.”

Winston S. Churchill

As one’s knowledge of the complexities and pitfalls around FEO grows, it is easy to begin to feel swamped by the various aspects of effective analysis. This is particularly the case if you have “failed to duck” and have been pitchforked into the responsibility for leading a performance optimization initiative, especially if (as is often the case) such a performance focus has been precipitated by some sort of public failure of the digital brand.

This chapter is an attempt to provide a standard structured approach as a starting point. It may not meet every situation or work for you exactly as presented, but it’s a start—and all I can say is that it works for me!

A Structured Process for Frontend Optimization

Having considered the types of tools available to support external monitoring, our FEO “toe dip” continues by outlining a structured process to support understanding and intervention in this important area.

At a high level, a logical FEO process seeks to move progressively from general to specific understanding. The following are the key stages:

1. Target definition and test specification.

2. External performance (response) and patterns.

3. Performance monetization goal: what is the optimal performance/investment that will just meet business goals (see Chapter 1)?

4. FEO effort required: response distribution between frontend, backend, and third-party components.

5. Granular investigation: ...