Abstract: The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for tracking digital works and compensating authors thereof. Specifically, this invention relates to systems and methods for tracking and controlling ownership of digital works (e.g., images, video, sound, code, written works) and the compensation of the authors/artists of such digital works throughout the lifespan of the digital work. Preferred embodiments of the present invention utilize security code keys to manage and track the digital works while a centralized or distributed computerized system manages compensation of the author/artist based on current value or transaction value of the related digital work.