# If You Can't Measure It, You Can't Optimize It: LLM Telemetry Philosophy and Establishing Your First Baseline

> Source: https://sukruyusufkaya.com/en/learn/token-ekonomisi/llm-telemetry-baseline-olcum-felsefesi
> Updated: 2026-05-14T14:44:11.658Z
> Category: Token Ekonomisi & LLM Cost Optimization
> Module: Module 3: Cost Telemetry — Measure First, Then Optimize
**TLDR:** The oldest motto in engineering applies to LLMs: measure first, optimize next. This lesson covers why telemetry-less optimization is a blind war, the 5 metrics you must track, and how to establish your first baseline in 30 days.