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.