a process for managing and authorizing rights in a computer system accounts for the dynamic , multi - dimensional , and granular nature of rights . a database structure divides works and rights into two related tables . a works table includes information sufficient to identify works managed by the system , while a rights table identifies a right associated with a work and includes one or more date fields delimiting the right . the rights table may also include type of use information . additional tables , such as a work relation table , a party table , or an order table , may be provided . the process involves managing and querying the database structure and has broad applicability to intellectual , real , and personal property ; contract management ; and similar items . the process may be performed in a computer system operating in standalone mode , client / server mode , or over the internet .