Methods for Assessing Still Image Compression Efficiency: PACS Example

Assessing the computational efficiency of an image compression technique plays an important part in evaluations used to estimate the overall quality of the compression. In this chapter, different methods for assessing computational efficiency will be explored as a part of the evaluations used to determine still image compression usability in image storage/communication systems such as a Picture Archiving and Communication System. Efficiency describes how well the image compression makes use of the available computing resources. It is not an obligatory part of evaluation and there is no unique method for assessing compression efficiency. The results of compression efficiency assessment are usually interpreted in the context of the hardware and software platform used in the evaluation. This dependence is addressed and different ways for its amelioration are discussed in the chapter. This is the groundwork for research in developing a platform-independent method for assessing compression efficiency.