The FERET evaluation methodology for face-recognition algorithms

TLDR

Reliable face‑recognition systems require a large facial image database and a robust evaluation procedure, both of which the FERET program provides through its database and standardized tests. The third FERET test aimed to assess current performance, identify future research directions, and measure algorithm accuracy. The third FERET test was administered in September 1996 as part of a series of standardized face‑recognition evaluations. The FERET database contains 14,126 images of 1,199 subjects, split into development and sequestered sets.

Abstract

Two of the most critical requirements in support of producing reliable face-recognition systems are a large database of facial images and a testing procedure to evaluate systems. The Face Recognition Technology (FERET) program has addressed both issues through the FERET database of facial images and the establishment of the FERET tests. To date, 14,126 images from 1,199 individuals are included in the FERET database, which is divided into development and sequestered portions of the database. In September 1996, the FERET program administered the third in a series of FERET face-recognition tests. The primary objectives of the third test were to 1) assess the state of the art, 2) identify future areas of research, and 3) measure algorithm performance.