International Standard Works Code

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What Does International Standard Works Code Mean?

International Standard Works Code is a unique set of identifiers of music. ISWC is a way in which music or literary works are identified or cataloged. It is controlled by the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (ICSAC). Computer databases can distinguish these unique sets of identifiers, and ISWCs always begin with the reference letter “T.” Intellectual property is then categorized and identified with the ICSAC. Standards for coding copyrighted creative works were first implemented by ICSAC.

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Techopedia Explains International Standard Works Code

ISWC can be useful when used in conjunction with library cataloging. And it identifies works as opposed to recordings. ISWC databases are used internationally, which ICSAC tries to promote. The ICSAC’s mission also includes public education and awareness about copyright laws. ICSAC favors improved legislation worldwide protecting authors and artists holding creative copyrights. While the designated codes assigned to specific works always begin with the same prefix “T,” they do not directly relate to the author, artist or title of their owned works. The very first ISWC was assigned to “Dancing Queen” by ABBA in 1995.

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Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert
Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert

Margaret is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical business audience. Over the past twenty years, her IT definitions have been published by Que in an encyclopedia of technology terms and cited in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine, and Discovery Magazine. She joined Techopedia in 2011. Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages.
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