Audit intent

A database optimization audit should explain what is slow and what evidence supports the next step.

The audit format is useful for small businesses because it turns a vague performance complaint into a reviewable work plan.

Start from database statistics, query patterns, table size, and index usage.

Separate high-impact bottlenecks from cleanup tasks that can wait.

Document why an index, query rewrite, maintenance change, or plan upgrade may help.

Keep human approval in front of production SQL and configuration changes.