We've got some traction recently and want to test ways to monetize our mobile app by displaying ads to users without driving them crazy. What is the most acceptable way of displaying ads today?
Q1: Would you recommend a good strategy to design a solution that is simple to implement and easy to use for advertisers.
Q2: Please share your experience of running mobile ads for paid advertisers and what are must-have features for them.
Q3: What mobile ad format is most user-friendly (according to some facts or statistics)?
I use ad monetization tactics to drive revenue for global mobile game brands. (Phase 10, Skip-Bo, Scattergories, etc.)
Finding a way to monetize your users with ads without pushing them away is definitely a delicate balance. Answering your questions depends on 4 main factors: 1) Type of App 2) Number of daily impressions 3) Location 4) Revenue Goals.
There are a number of ways to display ads in your app. Some include; banners, static interstitials, video interstitials, rewarded video and native ads. The most acceptable way to display ads in your app will depend on the factors I stated above.
Are you trying to design your own solution or are you looking to partner with different ad networks (there are hundreds)? It is important to understand the types of partners and what types of ads are right for your App.
I would recommend using an ad network mediation layer when you build your solution so you can 1) increase your fill rate 2) diversify your ad offering 3) simplify your reporting 4) maximize your revenue.
If you would like more specifics just let me know, I would be happy to help you out.
Here are some recommendations for user-friendly mobile ad display based on best practices as of late 2015:
Q1: A good strategy is to focus on non-intrusive ad placements that don't disrupt the core user experience. Interstitial ads between major actions or views are better than pop-ups. Offer simple self-service ad setup via standard IAB ad units and sizes that integrate with major ad networks.
Q2: As an advertiser, we valued analytics on click-throughs, conversions, and demographic targeting options. Real-time dashboard reporting on campaign performance is also important for optimizing. Simplicity in setting budgets and scheduling was key since mobile is still emerging.
Q3: According to various studies at the time, native or content-based ad formats tended to be viewed most favorably by users. Specifically:
Native ads blended into the content flow
Small static banner ads (320x50) placed above or below content
interstitial full-screen ads loaded between pages or after a set time of app inactivity
Avoiding flashy pop-ups, auto-playing videos, or large takeover ads helped improve perceptions of being "less disruptive." Focus on relevance to the content being consumed for the highest engagement with users. Measure and optimize placement types over time based on metrics.
