The Expensify App Performance Makeover

From 14.5 to 2.5 seconds

Sending a message took approx. 14.5 seconds on average. We reduced this baseline value to approx. 2.5 seconds.

Challenge

Expensify was on the brink of a major app upgrade, aiming for not just a facelift but a complete performance overhaul. They needed speed, and they needed it to feel effortless.

The key challenge lay in optimizing performance without compromising functionality. Expensify's new app version demanded a level of responsiveness that would elevate user interactions to a seamless experience.

Approach & Work done

Adopting the DMAIC framework (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), we approached the task systematically, ensuring each step contributed to the overarching goal of enhancing app performance.

Define

We clearly defined objectives and metrics, aligning them with Expensify's business goals. Through collaborative discussions and analysis, we identified key performance indicators (KPIs) such as message sending time, and setting realistic targets to drive improvements.

Measure

With defined metrics in hand, we proceeded to measure baseline performance, leveraging a combination of tools and techniques such as DevTools component, Bun, and Maestro. Rigorous testing on various devices and environments allowed us to gather comprehensive data, showing performance bottlenecks.

Analyze

Then, we delved into a detailed analysis of performance issues, with a special focus on factors impacting app responsiveness. From CPU profiling to memory utilization, we left no stone unturned in identifying root causes and preparing effective strategies for optimization with specific action items.

Improve

Thanks to our meticulous analysis, we knew exactly what to do - we started to implement targeted improvements. Through iterative development cycles and rigorous testing, we fine-tuned app performance, achieving significant reductions in message-sending times and enhancing overall responsiveness.

Control

We didn’t stop there. To maintain optimal app performance over time, we integrated Reassure into Expensify's development pipeline. Continuous performance monitoring and identification of regressions let Expensify keep the great results.

Results

With DMAIC guiding us, we gave Expensify's app a serious performance boost. Smooth chats, snappy responses - that's the Expensify experience, now better than ever. 

Apart from all the fixes and improvements, we provided metrics that should be tracked over time so the client knows exactly what to monitor and correct to maintain great performance levels long term.