Cache-Enabled Collection/Data Listing in eCatalog


Optimizing Data Access Through Intelligent Caching:

The Cache-Enabled Collection feature in eCatalog is designed to enhance system performance by caching frequently accessed data directly in memory. This approach reduces the need for repeated database queries for static or infrequently changed data, such as department listings or configuration settings.


Understanding Collections and Caching:


  • Collection as Data Representation:
    Conceptual Overview: In eCatalog, a "Collection" represents a business-logic class that corresponds to a table in the database. Each collection encapsulates the data and the operations that can be performed on that data, similar to how a table functions in a database context.



Performance Challenges with Frequent Access:

  • Problem Identification: Some collections are accessed very frequently, which can lead to excessive database queries and, consequently, performance bottlenecks. For example, retrieving department data multiple times within a short period can degrade system responsiveness.



Cache Implementation:


  • Caching Solution
    To address this, eCatalog allows specific collections to be stored in memory once retrieved. This cached data serves subsequent requests without additional database queries, significantly speeding up data retrieval and reducing load on the database.
  • Configuring Cache-Enabled Collections:
    • Administrative Control:
    • Cache Settings: Administrators have the ability to designate which collections are cacheable. This decision should be made carefully to avoid caching large datasets that could overwhelm system memory, such as detailed audit logs or large transaction records.


Best Practices for Caching:


  • Suitable Candidates for Caching: Typically, static or semi-static data, such as configuration settings, department listings, and other reference data, are ideal candidates for caching.
  • Avoiding Large Collections: It is crucial to ensure that only appropriate collections are cached. Caching very large datasets can lead to increased memory usage, potentially impacting server performance negatively.


Implementation Considerations:


  • System Implementor Recommendations: Generally, the system implementor or initial configurator will decide the default cache settings based on the application's data access patterns and performance requirements.
  • Monitoring and Adjustment: Regular monitoring of cached data and system performance is recommended to adjust cache settings as needed. This ensures that the caching mechanism remains efficient and effective as system usage patterns evolve.


Benefits of Cache-Enabled Collections:


  • Enhanced Performance
    By storing frequently accessed data in memory, eCatalog can provide faster data access times, enhancing overall system performance.
  • Reduced Database Load: 
    Caching reduces the number of queries made to the database for repetitive data requests, thereby decreasing database load and improving response times.
  • Scalability: 
    Effective caching strategies can help scale the system to handle larger loads without proportional increases in resource consumption.