Postprocessors

Postprocessors are software components or processing stages that run after an initial processing step to refine, format, or finalize results for a specific target environment, device, or use case. They are used in many technical domains where an intermediate representation must be transformed into a final form suitable for distribution, display, or further use.

In digital media and data workflows, postprocessing commonly follows an initial generation or capture step. In image processing, a postprocessor may apply color correction, denoise, upscale or downscale, and convert formats. In video and audio work, postprocessing includes color grading, normalization, noise reduction, re-encoding, and mastering. In data science and machine learning, postprocessing can convert model outputs into human-readable labels, apply thresholding, run non-maximum suppression, or decode probabilistic results into structured results.

In printing and publishing, a postprocessor often converts a device-independent page description into a printer’s native language or performs final formatting, color management, and ICC profile adaptation. In industrial and manufacturing contexts, postprocessing may include finishing steps such as cutting, folding, or binding after an initial production pass. In software development and build pipelines, postprocessors may optimize or package generated code, convert intermediate representations to final artifacts, or apply platform-specific adaptations.

Key considerations for postprocessors include compatibility with upstream data, correctness and reproducibility of results, performance and latency, and the ability to adapt to different target formats or devices. Because they operate after an initial pass, postprocessors are highly domain-specific and often optional components within larger workflows.