Keystream's SmartAd offers video alternative

Online video is adored by consumers but the ads supporting video streams aren't according to several reports. Researchers have found that consumers tune out the ads and only begin paying attention once their clip airs. Enter a new solution from Keystream called SmartAd. The Software-As-As-Service (SaaS) platform is available for broadcasters, video publishers and marketers.

by Kristina Knight

The platform automatically places video ad overlays on all types of online video. This system has been shown to give advertisers higher click through rates than standard pre-roll or overlay ads placed at the bottom of a screen. The ads are placed in blank spaces and are targeted according to the subject matter of a video clip. On average, blank spaces appear once every two minutes. The Keystream ads further engage consumers by encouraging interaction bwith roll over; it stops the video stream as soon as the consumer clicks on an ad.

SmartAds use a CPM-based revenue model; marketers are changed only after an ad is served. The ads support Flash and Silverlight applications.

"SmartAd offers powerful, interactive direct response and branding opportunities where they simply didn't exist before and it's easier than ever to capitalize on these opportunities through the platform's automatic and intuitive capabilities," said Edward Ratner, Keystream Co-Founder and President of Research and Development.