Precompile

Precompile is the process of transforming code or data into an artifact that can be used directly by a runtime system, before the program runs. The goal is to reduce work done at run time, improve startup times, and provide a more predictable performance profile by avoiding or minimizing interpretation, parsing, or repeated analysis during execution.

Common applications occur in several domains. In programming, ahead-of-time compilation converts source code to machine code or an intermediate form that the runtime can execute directly. In web and software templating, templates are precompiled into executable code to eliminate runtime template parsing. In graphics and multimedia stacks, shader programs are precompiled into binary formats suitable for the target GPU or pipeline. Asset pipelines and build systems often precompile or bundle code and resources to reduce load times in production. Databases and runtime environments may also create prepared or cached artifacts that are reused for repeatedly executed queries or operations.

Advantages include faster startup, lower per-transaction overhead, and more consistent performance, particularly on constrained devices or in server environments. Drawbacks include longer build times, the need to manage artifact versioning and compatibility, potential platform dependence, and the risk of stale artifacts if sources change without a rebuild.

Related concepts include ahead-of-time compilation, just-in-time compilation, and precompiled headers.