What methods can be used to optimize performance in a Sitecore application?

Implementing caching strategies and efficient coding practices is essential for optimizing performance in a Sitecore application. Caching allows frequently accessed data to be stored temporarily, which reduces the need for repeated database queries and minimizes load times. For instance, caching can include techniques such as output caching, item caching, and data caching within Sitecore. This not only enhances the responsiveness of the application but also alleviates the load on backend services.

Efficient coding practices also play a crucial role in performance optimization. This includes writing clean, modular code, utilizing Sitecore’s APIs effectively, and minimizing the usage of heavy resources on the server side. By following these best practices, developers can ensure that the application runs smoothly and efficiently, leading to a better user experience.

The other options do not effectively contribute to performance optimization. Relying solely on HTML and CSS for structure does not address the underlying performance issues related to data retrieval and processing that Sitecore applications typically face. Delaying database queries until the end of page load could result in rendering delays, negating the benefits of performance optimization. Finally, increasing the number of server requests generally leads to increased load times and decreased performance, as each request can add to the latency of the application. Thus, the recommended approach merging