A study reported by MediaPost and conducted by Simmons, a division of Experian Research Services, over the last year concludes that consumers are significantly more engaged in online advertisements than those watched on television.
The study defines 'engagement' through a battery of characteristics
participants identified with media such as 'inspirational', 'life enhancing'
and ad receptivity.
Though the most significant findings involved ads run during television
shows watched online the study also had implications for 'on-site' online ads.
On significant finding was the people are more receptive to ads on frequently
visited sites.
None of the findings reported by MediaPost are earth-shattering however;
studies and surveys showing the shift from tradition to online marketing
channels are ubiquitous as are claims of the effectiveness of these online
channels.
The more interesting question is, where do these trends lead? That is,
what is the future of online advertising?
Are consumers simply inundated and more accustom to ignoring television ads
and online advertisement can expect to see a decline in value over time as
consumers grow used to it? Or is the increased effectiveness a virtue of the
nature of the medium, the interactivity and opportunities for delivering targeted
advertisement inherent in the online experience? I don't expect to answer such
questions here but the questions are definitely worth discussion and study.