Time-Based Logging Beats Count-Based Logging

Logging strategy is crucial in software engineering. This article argues that time-based logging (e.g., logging every X seconds) is superior to count-based logging (e.g., logging every X messages) when processing many events. Count-based logging results in wildly varying log frequencies under different loads, potentially leading to too few or too many logs. Time-based logging maintains a consistent log rate, avoiding performance degradation from excessive logs or observability issues from insufficient logging. The author uses pseudocode examples and a cost-benefit analysis to support their argument, offering a fresh perspective on efficient logging strategies.