This chapter is truly about performance analysis. Some would say it is enough to find a problem and make some changes. I respectfully disagree. I believe we can do so much more, be so much more effective, and add greater value to our organization. Nearly any Oracle analysis will result in a number of recommendations. But in order to responsibly decide which changes to implement first, some ranking must occur. This chapter focused on bringing rational debate and consensus to ranking the performance-enhancing solutions. I hope you have found it enlightening and practical.

This final chapter brings a natural and fitting finality to Oracle Performance Firefighting. We started with method, moved into diagnosis and data collection, then into relevant Oracle internals, enabling us to intelligently choose valid performance-enhancing solutions, and then finally anticipate the impact of our proposed solutions. It's part of being an effective Oracle performance firefighter.

I truly wish this book had been available in 1989 when I first joined Oracle's consulting division. It would have made such a difference! So to those of you who are relatively new to Oracle optimization, here it is and enjoy! And those of you who have been slugging along for years optimizing Oracle systems, I hope you have a renewed enthusiasm and expectation for your work.