1. A machine-implemented pattern testing method comparing a first digital representation of a first pattern against a second digital representation of a second pattern using a match process for determining a match result from a first set of match features of interest of the first digital representation and a second set of match features of interest of the second digital representation using a set of predetermined match criteria, comprising executing on a processor the steps of: a) extracting, using the processor, a first set of features of interest from the first digital representation; b) extracting, using the processor, a second set of features of interest from the second digital representation; c) establishing, using the processor, the first set of match features of interest of the first digital representation from said first set of features of interest; d) establishing, using the processor, the second set of match features of interest of the second digital representation from said second set of features of interest; and e) predicting, using the processor, a likelihood of a passed match for the match result, responsive to an evaluation of the sets of match features of interest prior to an execution of the match process, using the sets of match features of interest; wherein predicting the likelihood of a passed match comprises, predicting a degree of pass-match through non-match with confidence to determine whether to execute a normal match process.