ISAN stands for International Standard Audiovisual Number. It is a unique identifier assigned to audiovisual works, including movies, TV shows, and video games, by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The purpose of ISAN is to provide a standardized, universal identification system for audiovisual content, facilitating efficient management, distribution, and tracking of such works in the global entertainment industry.
An ISAN is a 12-digit alphanumeric code, generated through a central registration system maintained by ISAN International Agency. This agency oversees the allocation and administration of ISANs on a global scale. Each ISAN is assigned to a specific audiovisual work, not to an individual copy or version of it. Therefore, a single ISAN can represent multiple formats, adaptations, translations, or variations of the same audiovisual work.
ISANs serve several crucial purposes in the audiovisual industry. They enable accurate identification and cataloging of audiovisual content, ensuring efficient rights management, copyright protection, and licensing procedures. Moreover, ISANs facilitate the tracking and monitoring of audiovisual works across different platforms and media channels, aiding in revenue collection, distribution, and audience measurement. Additionally, ISANs contribute to the preservation and archiving of cultural heritage by enabling the identification and documentation of audiovisual works for future reference and historical purposes.
Overall, ISANs play a pivotal role in streamlining the management and distribution of audiovisual content globally, offering a standardized system for reliable identification and tracking within the entertainment industry.
