Programmatic Blog

ISBA survey: advertisers still uncertain about real-time advertising (RTA)

Written by Marketing | Jun 18, 2014 2:22:25 PM

ISBA and Infectious Media launching guide for advertisers to address issue

Most advertisers in the UK are still uncertain about real-time advertising (RTA), according to an ISBA survey. Over a third of respondents are unaware of what proportion of their own online campaigns involve RTA while only just over a third admit to having a ‘positive perception’ of RTA and Programmatic Trading.

The survey, run in collaboration with real-time advertising specialists Infectious Media, shows that almost all (96%) respondents intend to learn more about RTA. The results come as ISBA and Infectious Media launch a “Guide to Real-Time Advertising” to help advertisers better understand the area.

David Ellison, ISBA’s Marketing Services Manager, said: “The survey confirms industry’s suspicions that advertisers are still uncertain about real-time advertising. The comments we collated reinforce the view that there is distrust amongst brands about how much of their expenditure is actually spent on media.”

Martin Kelly, CEO and Co-founder of Infectious Media, added: “Clearly, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done from providers to reassure advertisers that programmatic trading can be safe, transparent and effective.”

Only half of respondents have a basic knowledge of RTA while many advertisers are also unsure about the market itself, with38% admitting they were ‘not very aware’ of the different providers of programmatic ad buying services.

“Advertisers are asking ISBA for more information to be able to make informed decisions rather than being reliant on agencies. An RTA training course will be available for members in the autumn,” said Ellison.

Ellison concluded: “Despite the uncertainty, one thing is very clear though, the vast majority (76%) believe RTA will feature more strongly in future campaigns and the appetite for learning is strong; we hope our guidance will go some way to help advertisers get the most out of what is certain to become an ever more important part of the digital eco-system.”

To find out more about the guide and to request a copy, click here.