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Understanding Instream Video Advertising

Instream video is an advertising term that defines the placement of a Video Advertisement within user-requested streaming content. In stream video advertising refers to ads that play before, during, or after user-requested streaming content. This type of advertising emphasizes the importance of user experience with features like skippable ads and utilizes a cost-per-view pricing model. Captivating video content and precise targeting are essential to minimize user distraction and maximize engagement.

Instream video are typically 6, 10, 15, 30 or 60 seconds long, and can be skipped after 5 seconds.

What is Instream Video?

Instream video refers to a type of video advertising that plays within a video stream, typically before, during, or after the main video content. This type of video ad is designed to capture the viewer’s attention when they are most engaged with the content. Instream video ads can be found on various platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and other video-sharing sites. By integrating seamlessly with the video content, these ads ensure higher viewer engagement and better retention of the advertising message.

Types of Instream Video Ads

There are several types of instream video ads, each serving a unique purpose:

  • Linear video ads: These ads play sequentially with the video content, similar to commercial breaks on traditional TV. They can be pre-roll, mid-roll, or post-roll ads, depending on their placement relative to the main content.
  • Non-linear video ads: These ads appear on top of the playing content without obstructing or interrupting it. They often take the form of overlays that viewers can interact with while still watching the main video.
  • Companion video ads: These ads appear beside the video in the form of an image, text, or rich media ad, positioned outside the video player. They complement the main video ad and provide additional information or branding opportunities.

By understanding these different types of instream video ads, advertisers can choose the most effective format for their campaign goals.

Benefits of Instream Video Ads

Instream video ads offer several benefits that make them a powerful tool for advertisers:

  • Higher engagement rates: Instream video ads are more likely to capture the viewer’s attention and engage them with the content, leading to better ad recall and message retention.
  • Increased brand awareness: By placing ads within popular video content, advertisers can significantly boost brand visibility and reach a larger audience.
  • Better targeting: Instream video ads can be precisely targeted to specific audiences based on demographics, interests, and behaviors, ensuring that the right message reaches the right people.

These benefits make instream video ads an attractive option for brands looking to enhance their digital marketing efforts.

Instream video ads are sold on a CPM or CPV (Cost per View) basis where advertisers pay for complete views or actions consumers take. Their main benefits for advertisers is the consumers’ level of engagement – consumers are less likely to skip the ad if it’s related to the original video content and engaging enough.

Best Practices for Instream Video Ads

To get the most out of instream video ads, follow these best practices:

  • Keep it short and sweet: Instream video ads should be concise and to the point, ideally 15-30 seconds long. This helps maintain viewer interest and ensures the message is delivered effectively.
  • Make it engaging: Use eye-catching visuals, music, and sound effects to capture the viewer’s attention. Engaging content is more likely to be remembered and acted upon.
  • Use clear and concise messaging: Clearly communicate the message and call-to-action in the ad. Viewers should immediately understand what the ad is about and what action they should take.
  • Optimize for mobile: Ensure that the ad is optimized for mobile devices, as most video views occur on mobile. This includes using vertical or square video formats and ensuring fast load times.

By adhering to these best practices, advertisers can create compelling instream video ads that resonate with their target audience.

Conclusion

Instream video ads are a powerful way to reach and engage with audiences on video-sharing platforms. By understanding the different types of instream video ads and following best practices, advertisers can maximize the impact of their video ad campaigns and achieve their marketing goals. Whether you’re looking to increase brand awareness, drive website traffic, or promote a product, instream video ads can help you achieve your objectives.



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