The International Standard Musical Work Code (ISWC) identifies unique musical compositions and is managed by Royalty Admins focused on publishing rights, such as music publishers and CMOs.
Original Works provides:
- Registration of ISWCs through CWR messages
- Linking compositions to associated recordings
- Mapping ISWC-to-ISRC relationships
- Tracking territorial rights variations
Publishers register ISWCs through the protocol by:
- Submitting standardized CWR files
- Providing complete work information
- Registering writer shares
- Documenting territorial rights
The protocol enhances ISWC implementation by creating a verifiable rights registry while maintaining compatibility with existing collection societies and publishing systems.