SoundScan is a data tracking system that monitors music sales in the United States and Canada. It collects point-of-sale information from various retailers, including record stores and online platforms, to provide accurate sales figures for albums and singles. This data is crucial for understanding market trends and consumer preferences in the music industry. Established in 1989, SoundScan has become the standard for measuring music sales. Its reports are used by record labels, artists, and industry professionals to gauge the success of releases and inform marketing strategies. The information is also used to compile charts, such as the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard 200.