Second, VoxBo's components have been optimized for imaging problems. Most important, it provides an efficient matrix arithmetic engine that can multiply large matrices efficiently without relying on virtual memory. Repetitive, mindless tasks should be performed by computers, not people. In designing VoxBo, we have attempted to automate as much as possible, without taking control from the user. Users fill in the specifics of the analyses they need, and their jobs will be scheduled for execution whenever resources become available.
Free software reduces the burden on research groups.
An additional goal that is poorly met by the current package, but that has motivated numerous design considerations, is ease of use. This includes ease of installation, ease of troubleshooting, and interface design. VoxBo currently includes a detailed manual and does a reasonable job of notifying users of errors. It also detects and adapts to a variety of anomalous environmental conditions, including network outages, system crashes, license failures, and unexplained software failures. However, in the future, on-line help, improved graphical interfaces, and a more sophisticated installation tool will make the software much easier to use.