International Standard Audiovisual Number

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International Standard Audiovisual Number (ISAN) is a unique identifier for audiovisual works. Its purpose is to simplify the identification and management of audiovisual content by providing a distinct, permanent number that can be used internationally. The ISAN system is analogous to the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) used for books, but it is specifically designed for films, television programs, and other audiovisual media.

Overview

The ISAN is a voluntary system that encodes a unique identifier for each audiovisual work. It is composed of 24 hexadecimal characters, structured to provide information about the work's version, episode, and series, if applicable. This system is managed by the ISAN International Agency, which is responsible for overseeing the registration process and ensuring that each ISAN is unique and properly assigned.

Structure

The ISAN code is divided into four parts:

1. A 6-digit root identifier, which is unique to each audiovisual work.
2. A 2-digit version identifier, for different versions of the same work (e.g., director's cut, edited version).
3. A 2-digit episode and part identifier, for works that are part of a series.
4. A 12-digit check character, to ensure the integrity of the ISAN.

Registration

To obtain an ISAN, producers or rights holders of an audiovisual work must apply through a registered ISAN agency. The application process involves providing detailed information about the work, including its title, creator(s), production year, and type of content. Once the application is approved, the ISAN is permanently assigned to the work and cannot be transferred or reused for another work.

Benefits

The use of ISAN offers several benefits for the audiovisual industry:

• It facilitates the management and distribution of content across different platforms and countries.
• It helps in the fight against piracy by making it easier to identify and track audiovisual works.
• It simplifies the process of rights management and royalty payments by providing a clear and unique identifier for each work.

Challenges

Despite its advantages, the adoption of ISAN has faced challenges. These include the cost of registration for producers, especially for independent filmmakers, and the lack of universal recognition and enforcement of the system across all countries and platforms.

Conclusion

The International Standard Audiovisual Number is a crucial tool for the identification and management of audiovisual works on a global scale. While it faces certain challenges in terms of universal adoption, its benefits in terms of content management, piracy prevention, and rights administration cannot be understated. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the importance of systems like ISAN in ensuring the smooth distribution and protection of audiovisual content is likely to grow.

International Standard Audiovisual Number Resources
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