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Data Supplier Handbook

Handling Metadata Conflicts

Because digital assets are often cataloged independently across multiple institutions, rights metadata conflicts are a practical reality.

When an ISCC fingerprint is queried, the registry retrieves all matching declarations based on content similarity. If these declarations assert incompatible rights statuses—such as one institution claiming a work is in the Public Domain while another applies CC BY—CommonsDB employs dynamic, algorithmic response logic rather than acting as a centralized arbiter of truth.

The system evaluates the consensus by grouping declarations into compatible rights buckets and determining if a clear majority view exists (defined by a 75% threshold).

  • Consensus Reached: If a strong supermajority is present, the minority declarations are dynamically flagged as conflicting.
  • No Consensus: If no clear consensus is reached, all matching records are returned with a conflict flag.

What to Do If You Encounter a Conflict If you discover that one of your declarations has been flagged as conflicting in the registry, we recommend taking the following steps:

  1. Investigate the Discrepancy: Use the CommonsDB Explorer to view the conflicting declarations. Since all declarations are cryptographically signed by verified institutions, you can see exactly who is making the competing claim and what rights statement they applied.
  2. Review Internal Records: Re-verify the asset's copyright status within your own internal rights clearance process to ensure your submitted data is accurate and up to date.
  3. Update if Necessary: If you determine that your original declaration was indeed incorrect or outdated, submit a corrected declaration using the supersedes field (as outlined earlier).
  4. Coordinate or Let it Stand: If your internal review confirms your declaration is legally correct, no technical action is strictly required. The registry is functioning as intended by exposing real-world cataloging differences. However, for significant works, you may choose to reach out directly to the conflicting institution to discuss and resolve the historical or legal discrepancy.