Abstract: A method and architecture for reading and updating metadata. A policy component is arranged to receive a request to read or update metadata that may include metadata from a plurality of standards. Each metadata format potentially includes a field corresponding to the request. The policy component determines which fields to read or update in satisfying the request by consulting a repository. The repository includes mappings that map information included in the request (e.g., a path) to locations in the metadata corresponding to the request. The policy component uses the locations to read or update the metadata.

Abstract: An improved system and method for an extensible codec architecture for digital images is provided. Executable software code may be operably coupled to a codec manager for requesting imaging operations to be performed on a digital image. The codec manager may receive the request to perform an imaging operation on the digital image and may select an imaging component, such as a codec, from one or more imaging components registered in the computer system for performing an imaging operation on the digital image. An arbitration manager may include functionality for requesting enumeration of the operations an imaging component may perform on a particular digital image. One or more pixel format converters may then convert the pixel format in the digital image to a pixel format supported by an imaging component installed on the system.