Described are techniques for processing I/O (input/output) operations. A first observed value of a first performance metric denoting any of a current workload or performance for a first physical device is determined. A target time delay for the first physical device is identified based on the first observed value of the first performance metric. The target time delay specifies a minimum time delay between consecutive host I/Os directed to the first physical device. The target time delay is enforced with respect to consecutive host I/Os directed to the first physical device.