Performance Optimization in GitHub Actions

2.1 Workflows

A workflow is an automated process defined in a YAML file that describes the steps to be executed. It can be triggered by various events like push, pull request, etc.

2.2 Jobs

Jobs are a collection of steps that execute on the same runner. Optimizing jobs can improve performance by reducing redundant executions.

2.3 Steps

Steps are individual tasks that are executed in a job. Each step can run commands, scripts, or actions.

3.1 Use Caching

Caching dependencies and build outputs can significantly reduce the time of subsequent runs. Use the actions/cache action to cache files.

 
name: Cache Node.js modules
on: [push]
jobs:
  build:
    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
    steps:
      - uses: actions/checkout@v2
      - name: Cache Node.js modules
        uses: actions/cache@v2
        with:
          path: ~/.npm
          key: ${{ runner.os }}-node-${{ hashFiles('**/package-lock.json') }}
      - name: Install dependencies
        run: npm install
            

3.2 Optimize Job Configuration

Split jobs efficiently to run in parallel and reduce overall execution time. Only run jobs that are necessary based on changes.

3.3 Minimize Workflow Runs

Use the if condition to prevent unnecessary workflow executions based on specific paths or events.

on:
  push:
    paths:
      - 'src/**'
      - '!docs/**'
            

3.4 Use Matrix Builds

Matrix builds allow you to run multiple jobs with different configurations in parallel, which can speed up testing across different environments.

jobs:
  build:
    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
    strategy:
      matrix:
        node-version: [10, 12, 14]
    steps:
      - uses: actions/checkout@v2
      - name: Use Node.js ${{ matrix.node-version }}
        uses: actions/setup-node@v2
        with:
          node-version: ${{ matrix.node-version }}
            

4.1 Limit the Use of External Actions

Only use community actions that are well-maintained and necessary. This helps in minimizing the overall execution time.

4.2 Monitor Workflow Execution

Utilize GitHub's built-in insights and logs to monitor workflow performance and identify bottlenecks.

4.3 Regularly Review and Refactor Workflows

Regularly assess and refactor workflows to remove obsolete steps or jobs that may slow down the process.