Behind the glass, a view from the CTV sell side with Richard Brant from Vevo.
Aug 7, 2024
auto_awesome
Richard Brant, Senior Director of Advanced TV, Strategy and Partnerships at Vevo, shares his insights from the forefront of the music video network. He discusses the fragmented streaming inventory landscape and the evolution in agency strategies for CTV. Brant emphasizes the importance of balancing viewer experience and ad monetization while exploring supply path optimization. He also delves into the future of audience measurement and the necessity for innovative approaches to enhance advertising effectiveness, all while navigating the ever-changing media environment.
Connected TV (CTV) represents a distinct advertising medium that requires tailored strategies to fully leverage its unique capabilities and benefits.
Streamlined integration of data and technological innovations in traditional broadcasting, as exemplified by Sky, is essential for optimizing viewer engagement in streaming.
Achieving a balance between viewer satisfaction and ad monetization is crucial, necessitating thoughtful ad placements that prioritize audience preferences and retention.
Deep dives
Connected TV as a Distinct Medium
Connected TV (CTV) functions as a unique medium, separate from traditional digital and audiovisual approaches. While it shares some attributes with digital, it also offers features that conventional TV does not, making it essential to recognize its distinct value. A common mistake in approaching CTV is forcing it into the confines of digital strategies, which leads to missed opportunities for leveraging its full capabilities. Hence, understanding CTV's specific needs and advantages is vital for maximizing its potential in the advertising space.
The Evolution of TV and Streaming Experience
The conversation highlights the innovative strides that broadcasters like Sky have made in integrating data and technology with traditional TV. Moving from linear television to digital platforms has been critical, as broadcast companies have sought to enhance their offerings and optimize viewer engagement through advancements like addressability. These early adaptations have positioned Sky and similar entities as frontrunners in the ever-evolving landscape of streaming and connected media. As the industry continues to shift towards more integrated strategies, understanding these innovations is crucial for stakeholders.
Viewer Engagement and Ad Experience
Achieving an optimal balance between viewer satisfaction and ad monetization is a significant challenge for publishers. High ad frequency can lead to viewer frustration, prompting the need for manageable ad loads that ensure a positive experience. Publishers must consider viewer preferences in designing ad experiences that do not overwhelm, effectively retaining audience attention. This focus on viewer engagement is vital, as it ultimately determines the success of ad placements and overall content consumption.
The Importance of Measurement and Analytics
As the streaming landscape matures, comprehensive measurement and analytics become essential for understanding viewer behavior and campaign effectiveness. The integration of various data sources, including audience measurement tools and ACR data from smart TVs, can provide a clearer view of how content performs across platforms. This comprehensive approach enables publishers to better track and analyze audience interactions, fostering a unified view of their reach and effectiveness. Therefore, a commitment to transparency and collaboration among industry players is necessary for advancing the sector.
Navigating the Fragmented Ecosystem
Brands and agencies must adopt a content-first strategy when navigating the increasingly fragmented streaming ecosystem. They should focus on delivering high-quality, prestigious content that resonates with viewers while adjusting their marketing tactics to align with shifting audience behaviors. Embracing a broader view that blurs the lines between traditional TV and digital strategies allows advertisers to maximize their impact and drive conversions. By understanding the evolving landscape, agencies can effectively engage audiences across various platforms, enhancing brand visibility and relevance.
In episode 2 of The CTV Podcast, I am joined by Richard Brant, Senior Director, Advanced TV, Strategy and Partnerships at Vevo, the world's leading music video network.
We cover a lot of ground including:
The growing, but fragmented streaming inventory ecosystem.
The evolution of agency planning and buying practices.
Balancing CTV direct sold and programmatic partnerships.
How streaming publishers should be thinking about SSP and DSP relationships.
The future of CTV audience measurement.
How streaming publishers can lean into buy side SPO practices.