How can rightsholders sign a contract with every single user of their work – such as a radio station or a cable or satellite operator – and ensure that royalties are paid?
At the same time, how can users request permission from every rightsholder to use their works?
This is where collective management comes into play.
Collective management provides a bridge between rightsholders and users, whether it be in music, publishing, photography, or via audiovisual means. It also facilitates the use of works by operators and promotes fair payment to their owners.
Collective management guarantees revenue payment to the rightsholder, thus freeing them to focus on creation.
Collection management makes it easier for users to comply with copyright legislation.
Depending on applicable laws and regulations, collective management can be voluntary (the rightsholders decide to resort or not to collective management) or mandatory (subject to certain exceptions, the rightsholders cannot manage their rights individually).
