In Stream Ads

In stream ads are video ad formats served inside a video stream. They appear before the actual video as a pre roll, in the middle as a mid roll or after the video as a post roll. The best known provider is YouTube, comparable formats exist on Twitch, streaming services, broadcaster media libraries and social media platforms with video feeds.

Formats and billing

Classic in stream ads are skippable after five seconds, alternatively available as bumpers with fixed length and no skip. Billing usually runs on cost per view basis, paid per completed playback or a defined minimum playback duration. Longer formats for more complex messages are also available but more expensive and require very strong content so viewers do not skip.

Impact and practice

In stream ads work mainly for building brand awareness and around the centre of a story. The first five seconds are decisive because the majority skips after that. A clear brand cue and a useful opener pay off the most. Pure sales spots without a narrative arc waste budget. Audience settings and negative placement lists protect brand context.

Context in daily marketing

In day to day marketing, in stream ads belong to the moving image area and complement classic display and search ads. Combined with the JD platforms, video campaigns can build awareness while JD Mail activates existing lists and JD Leads directly processes new contacts. The result is a continuous journey from first contact to conversion.