IATIA's QPI technology was developed by Professor Keith Nugent, then Head of the School of Physics at the University of Melbourne and an inaugural Federation Fellow, and his research team.

IATIA's QPI algorithm utilises the inter-relationship between phase and amplitude (intensity) for a propagating wave.

Similar mathematical techniques apply to reflection images, where the sample surface profile is imprinted on the wavefront. The combination of conventional lateral and wavefront depth inputs provide 3-dimensional shape information.

While phase enhancement systems are available for improved sample contrast and visualisation in certain fields, such as optically microscopy, they are not convenient or commonplace for other radiations. Moreover, where available, the phase enhancement systems constrain the sample types and experimental configurations available. Additionally, the amplitude and phase components remain mixed so that interpretation remains confusing.

IATIA's mathematical solution for phase characterisation allows the generation of phase information of a broad range of radiations and is not limited by the experimental constraints of physical configurations. QPI is able to bring phase data analysis to a large range of industries and fields while utilising their current imaging capabilities.