Various algorithms are presented that enable an image of a data matrix to be analyzed and decoded for use in obtaining information about an object or item associated with the data matrix. The algorithms can account for variations in position and/or alignment of the data matrix. In one approach, the image is analyzed to determine a connected region of pixels. The connected region of pixels can be analyzed to determine a pair of pixels, included in the connected region of pixels, that is separated a greatest distance wherein a first pixel and second pixel of the pair of pixels is associated with image coordinates. Using the image coordinates of the pair of pixels, a potential area of the image that includes the visual code can be determined and the potential area can be analyzed to verify the presence of a potential data matrix.