Ordered dithering is a technique used in digital imaging to create the illusion of color depth in images with a limited color palette. It works by arranging pixels in a specific pattern, allowing the human eye to blend the colors together. This method is particularly useful in situations where only a few colors are available, such as in computer graphics or printing. The process involves using a threshold matrix, which determines how to distribute the available colors across the image. By strategically placing lighter and darker pixels, ordered dithering can produce a more visually appealing result, enhancing the overall quality of the image while maintaining a low file size.