A platform so lightweight it reduces the footprint of all the other applications on your device!
If you think this next-generation spin on zero-footprint (ZFP) technology sounds too far-fetched to be true, you’re right. What you may not realize, however, is that some vendor claims can also stretch the truth at times. While beneficial for providing anytime, anywhere access to patient images and reports there are important considerations and trade-offs that should be considered when evaluating these technologies:
- Is it truly ZFP? Some viewers that are marketed as ZFP may have 3rd party dependencies and/or require a small download in order to perform certain workflow functions, such as integration with dictation systems or multi-monitor support. If you are hoping to avoid installations at the desktop be sure to closely evaluate the application’s technical requirements and any associated trade-offs or limitations.
- Are the images always presented in full fidelity? In order to overcome performance challenges, some applications stream lossy images first and fill-in lossless over time. This may be acceptable for some reference-based use cases but are not ideal for diagnostic interpretation. Be sure to evaluate this in line with your current and future workflow and clinical needs.
- How are the images rendered and delivered to the end user? Image processing is typically performed in one of three ways: server-side (leveraging server GPU or CPU resources), client-side (typically leveraging local CPU resources), or a hybrid combination of both. Each delivery method has pros and cons related to network requirements, hardware cost, and overall performance. Be sure to consider your infrastructure capabilities and budget, and closely evaluate image delivery and manipulation performance when determining which ZFP application is the best fit for your organization.
Are you in the market for a ZFP enterprise solution? We can help you separate truth from fiction and select a vendor and technology that will best fit your organization’s unique capabilities and needs. Contact us to start the discussion.
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