> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.bioinsight.illumina.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.bioinsight.illumina.com/dragen-stratamap/illumina-stratamap-image-tool/image-processing.md).

# Image Processing

The image processing workflow is a guided six-step process for preparing tissue images for downstream spatial analysis. Each session processes one slide at a time from start to finish.

{% hint style="info" %}
Image processing is resource intensive, both in terms of RAM and CPU/GPU. While processing time is difficult to estimate, as it depends on a multitude of factors, the RAM requirement is straightforward: for every 1 GB of uncompressed image file size, 4 GB of free RAM is required. It is critical to use a computer with sufficient RAM installed (we recommend 32 GB of RAM) and to close unnecessary applications while using Illumina Spatial Image Tool.
{% endhint %}

### Workflow Navigation

Each step in the workflow includes the following navigation options:

| Button             | Description                                                              |
| ------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| **Cancel**         | Exits the workflow and returns to the homepage. Progress is not saved.   |
| **Continue later** | Saves progress and exits the workflow. The session can be resumed later. |
| **Back**           | Returns to the previous step.                                            |
| **Next step**      | Proceeds to the next step.                                               |

### Resuming a Workflow

If a workflow session is interrupted or exited using **Continue later**, progress is saved automatically. The session can be resumed from where it left off when the application is reopened.


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