When comparing `getAllValues()` to `getValue()`, the performance implications largely depend on the context and the specific implementation of these methods in the system or framework you are using. However, there are some general principles that can guide our understanding:
General Performance Considerations
1. Number of Calls: Generally, making fewer calls to retrieve data is more efficient than making multiple calls. If `getAllValues()` retrieves all necessary data in one call, it might be more efficient than calling `getValue()` multiple times for each value.
2. Data Retrieval: If `getAllValues()` fetches more data than needed, it could potentially be slower due to increased data transfer and processing. However, if you need all the values anyway, it's likely more efficient to fetch them all at once rather than individually.
3. Caching and Optimization: Some systems may cache results or optimize repeated calls to `getValue()`, which could mitigate performance differences. However, if `getAllValues()` is optimized for bulk retrieval, it might still offer better performance.
Specific Scenarios
- Google Apps Script: In Google Apps Script, using `getValues()` (similar to `getAllValues()`) is generally recommended over multiple `getValue()` calls because it reduces the number of interactions with the Google Sheets API, which can significantly improve performance[3].
- Reflection and Property Access: In .NET reflection, methods like `GetProperties()` can be slow due to the overhead of reflection itself. However, caching results can dramatically improve performance[1][7].
- ServiceNow: In ServiceNow, `getValue()` is generally faster than `getDisplayValue()` because it retrieves the raw value without additional processing[5].
Conclusion
The choice between `getAllValues()` and `getValue()` should be based on the specific requirements of your application and the performance characteristics of the system you are working with. If you need all values and can retrieve them efficiently with `getAllValues()`, it is likely the better choice. However, if you only need a subset of values or if `getValue()` is optimized for your use case, it might be preferable. Always consider factors like data size, network latency, and system-specific optimizations when making this decision.
Citations:[1] https://lotsacode.wordpress.com/2010/04/13/reflection-type-getproperties-and-performance/
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/GoogleAppsScript/comments/px959t/getrangegetvalues_performance_implication_when/
[3] https://stackoverflow.com/questions/42776311/optimizing-code-getvalue-and-looping
[4] https://drupal.stackexchange.com/questions/214036/getvalue-of-multiple-values-field-return-only-the-first-value
[5] https://www.servicenow.com/community/in-other-news/how-to-use-getdisplayvalue-and-getvalue-for-gliderecord-or/ba-p/2896719
[6] https://www.servicenow.com/docs/bundle/yokohama-api-reference/page/app-store/dev_portal/API_reference/GlideForm/concept/c_GlideFormAPI.html
[7] http://www.mattwarren.org/2016/12/14/Why-is-Reflection-slow/
[8] https://www.ag-grid.com/angular-data-grid/component-cell-renderer/
[9] https://salesforce.stackexchange.com/questions/8829/getinstance-vs-getvalues-custom-setting