Abstract: A method is provided of optimizing a software program for a target processor in order to meet specific performance objectives and yet maintain portability, where the software program is initially coded in a high-level language. The method includes a first step of optimizing the software program in the high-level language, using optimizations that are substantially independent of the target processor to host the application. Preferably, if the performance objectives are met after the completion of this step, then the process preferably successfully terminates. However, if the performance objectives are not met, then the method preferably proceeds to a second step. In the second step, the initially optimized form of the software program is again optimized in the high-level language, although target processor-dependent optimizations are used. If the performance objectives are met after completing this second step, then the process preferably terminates.