Heather Way, an advertising technology analyst with Parks Associates, says that AT&T’s results underline that TV companies, advertisers, and viewers all have something to gain if the TV commercial business becomes more like online advertising. Says Way, “It’s more efficient for the ad buyer; the provider can get a higher rate for their ad; the consumer is not bombarded by a bunch of content that’s not relevant.”

There is hope within the industry, Way says, that one day such approaches could make it possible to schedule ads in real time in response to who is tuning in, and perhaps even target them to individuals.

Most people don’t know that their TV provider tracks channel changes. Some advocacy groups may protest the possible privacy implications of such techniques, but Way believes viewers will likely be even less concerned than they are about online ad targeting. “It’s a medium that consumers are just more comfortable with,” she says.

AT&T is not the only company exploring new uses for set-top-box data, says Way, although most efforts are focused on replacing the use of ratings based on surveys to guess at viewing figures. “They’re all looking to mine that set-top-box data and use it better and use it for audience profiles,” she says.

From the article, "AT&T Tests Online Ad Targeting Tactics in TV Commercials" by Tom Simonite.

Next: Hulu Plus iPhone App Adds Support for Google Chromecast
Previous: The Evolution of Gamification in the Workplace

Be the first to leave a comment.

Have a comment? Login or create an account to start a discussion.