Performance modeling in the design process

Here, in capsule form, are some lessons learned trying to integrate performance modeling into the design process. Performance modeling should play a central role in system design; ignore it at your peril. The role of performance modeling is not the same in all design projects. Clearly specify performance goals and what factors will affect performance; they try to model those factors. Obtaining the data for the models can be a major problem; ongoing measurement projects are always worthwhile. Prototypes can be valuable data gathering tools if they are instrumented for this purpose. Anticipate the effect of environment on the system you are designing, and the effects of the system on the environment. Including the performance analyst on the design team from the beginning; if he is perceived as an outsider, he is more likely to be ignored, especially if decisions have already been made.