ISO 15706-2:2023

Overview

ISO 15706-2:2023, published by ISO, defines an international standard for the unique identification of specific versions and related content of audiovisual works. Building upon the foundation of the International Standard Audiovisual Number (ISAN) system (as per ISO 15706-1), this standard introduces the ISAN version identifier-known as the V-ISAN. The V-ISAN is a globally unique and registered identifier that provides precise version management and traceability throughout the life cycle of any audiovisual work, regardless of physical form.

V-ISANs are essential wherever clear, unambiguous identification of specific versions or program elements is required, such as in production, distribution, broadcast, and digital content management systems. While V-ISANs facilitate identification and administration, they do not serve as legal proof of rights or copyright ownership.

Key Topics

• V-ISAN Structure:

  • A V-ISAN consists of a registered ISAN code combined with a version segment, resulting in a unique, compound identifier for each version of an audiovisual work.
  • This approach enables identification at the version level, encompassing differences such as language, editing, or technical formats.

• Administration and Registration:

  • Only registered ISANs can be assigned a V-ISAN.
  • The system is administered internationally by a Registration Authority, which is responsible for allocating identifiers, managing the register, and providing query services.

• Eligibility for Assignment:

  • Distinct versions may be defined by changes including language tracks, subtitles, technical formats, content editing, or additional data streams related to the audiovisual work.
  • Routine duplication or changes in rights, pricing, or packaging do not qualify as new versions for V-ISAN issuance.

• Display and Encoding:

  • V-ISANs should be prominently affixed to all media, documentation, and packaging where technically feasible.
  • Machine-readable and XML-compatible schemas are provided to support electronic interoperability.

Applications

ISO 15706-2:2023 delivers significant practical value to the audiovisual sector, supporting:

• Broadcasting and Distribution

  • Facilitates accurate tracking and management of multiple versions released for television, online streaming, or physical distribution.
  • Enables digital platforms and electronic program guides to correctly reference language-specific edits, censored versions, or alternate cuts.

• Content Management Systems

  • Enhances rights management, cataloging, and metadata consistency across platforms and organizations.
  • Supports resolution services for connecting additional metadata and handling queries about specific versions.

• Production and Archiving

  • Streamlines the assignment and referencing of different product or release versions during the production process or archival preservation.
  • Prevents confusion arising from ambiguous or duplicate identifiers.

• Global Interoperability

  • Promotes standard practices for international content exchange, making version-specific identification reliable across languages, borders, and distribution channels.

Related Standards

• ISO 15706-1 - Information and documentation - International Standard Audiovisual Number (ISAN) - Part 1: Audiovisual work identifier
• ISO 639-2 - Codes for the representation of names of languages - Part 2: Alpha-3 code
• ISO 3166-1 - Codes for the representation of names of countries and their subdivisions - Part 1: Country code
• ISO/IEC 7064 - Information technology - Security techniques - Check character systems
• ISO 8601 - Date and time - Representations for information interchange

By providing a globally recognized method for version identification, ISO 15706-2:2023 is a cornerstone for efficient and accurate audiovisual content management, archiving, and distribution in the information science sector. This standard enhances data integrity, interoperability, and clarity for creators, distributors, and technology providers worldwide.