At UMW Recordings Inc. , we work with the highest international standards to ensure each release is properly identified and managed. One of these standards is GRid , a unique, structured code for digitally identifying a full release (album, EP, or single), complementing ISRC and UPC codes.
📌 What is a GRid?
The GRid is a unique 18-character code that digitally identifies a release as a unit , including one or more phonograms or music videos that comprise it. It is essential for professional music catalog management in digital environments.
🧬 Structure of a Grid
A GRid code follows this general structure:
A1-XXXXX-YYYYYYYYYY-Z
A1 : System prefix
XXXXX : Broadcaster code (assigned by IFPI)
YYYYYYYYYY : Unique number assigned to the release
Z : Check digit
Although visually it may appear separated by hyphens, the entire GRid is handled as a single continuous 18-character string.
🧾 What is the difference between GRid, UPC, and ISRC?
Code | What identifies | Main application |
SSRI | Each individual track or video clip | Collection of royalties for reproduction |
UPC | The complete product in digital stores | Sales and commercial distribution |
Grid | The digital launch as a whole | Traceability in aggregators, reports and versions |
🛠️ How do I use the Grid at UMW?
Each time a release (EP, album, mixtape, or single) is created, the system can assign a unique GRid for that content package.
This code is associated with the full release, allowing it to be differentiated even if its tracks already exist separately under other ISRCs.
UMW may record and store the GRid along with product metadata: title, date, artists, content included, etc.
✅ GRid
Release uniqueness : Differentiates a full EP or album even if its songs already have ISRCs and are previously released.
Clarity in reports : Improves report tracking, avoiding duplication or confusion between similar versions.
Compatibility with DSPs and management entities : Improves traceability on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, etc.
Re-release control : Allows you to manage reissues, special versions or compilations with a unique identifier.