What is a cache?

A cache is a hardware or software component set in an application or device memory. The cache automatically and temporarily stores data consumed by the user. So next time the application or device is accessed by the user the time and effort will be reduced.

A cache stores information such as pictures, instructions, and even programs on the computer, phones, or other devices. So they could be available when the user needs them again. When it comes to storing recently accessed web pages it’s called web caching or HTTP caching.

What is web caching (or website caching)?

Web cashing occurs after the user returns to a previously visited page. But the page that is shown is a version from this cache rather than a ‘fresh’ one. And the content on the page is shown much faster than the first time.

The disadvantage of websites with changing content, changes may not be visible if a previous, cached version is called up. Often only part of the site is cached. For example, if it’s some content web page the overall look will be cached but the articles on the page (the static content) will load completely fine on every visit.

Types of web caching

There are two types of web caching such as server-side caching and client-side caching. Although they cache websites differently, their purpose is the same – to make websites load faster without making new requests from the origin source.

DataStorage

What is Server-side caching?

Server-side caching temporarily stores web files and data on the origin server for later use. So when the user visits the website again he will see that already saved (or cached) copy of the webpage with better speed.

What is Client-side caching?

Client-side caching (also called browser caching) temporarily stores the copy of a webpage in the browser’s memory (a folder created by the browser). So when the user visits the website again with client-side caching enabled, he will fetch the data from the browser cache folder located on the user’s device.

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What Is Benchmarking?

Benchmarking is a process of comparing the performance of a company’s products or services, against those from another business known as the best in the industry. By gathering information about the process of competitors it will give you a great idea of ​​where your business needs improvements. Once you make the necessary improvements, you could have a better chance of a competitive advantage.

There are two types of benchmarking: internal and external benchmarking.

Types of benchmarking

Internal benchmarking

Internal benchmarking also called practice benchmarking is a process of comparing your company to itself. In other words, internal benchmarking is comparing similar operations within the company which could be defined and measured. The idea of ​​internal benchmarking is that learning from the company’s own structure could lead to continuous improvement and increase efficiency.

External benchmarking

Benchmarking is used to ensure that a business operation is performing at a level that meets standards defined as internal or external best practices.

External benchmarking is a way of comparing a company’s performance against an external standard to identify best practices and areas for improvement. The most important part when performing external benchmarking analysis is to ensure that you are comparing organizations that are similar in terms of size, industry, geographic location, etc. Then you can observe specific performance indicators and compare them side by side.

Besides benchmarking there is another method that would motivate employees. By giving them measurable targets to achieve which is called KPI (key performance indicator).

What are the differences between benchmarking and KPI?

Although both benchmarking indicators and KPIs may have similarities, they measure different things. But to understand the difference between these terms, we must find out what KPI means.

KPI (key performance indicator) is a specific measurement used to determine the effectiveness of goals set within the company. KPIs offer insight into aspects determining a business’s success. On the other hand, benchmarking is a comparison between one company and another in the same industry.

The benefit of using KPIs and benchmarks is vital to a company’s growth and success. However, businesses should set goals based on industry criteria.

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