VOD Advertising Showcases Will Transform TV Advertising, according to Forrester Research -- Networks and cable operators imagine a world where the best programs are available on-demand, supported by advertising. The reality: standards and measurement fall short, and advertisers, while intrigued, aren't ready to commit. But thinking about VOD ads only as 30-second spots is a mistake. VOD will finally succeed when it includes traditional spots, long-form video advertising showcases, and links that join the two. Advertisers should invest in this advertising on-demand format as soon as Comcast and Time Warner Cable make it available � within the next 18 months. Both networks and operators will profit as new advertising dollars come flowing in from direct marketing and Internet budgets. Forrester conducted confidential interviews with 20 advertisers and agencies. They also spoke with seven networks, three cable operators, and several vendors of VOD hardware and software.
Try to imagine this scenario, that General Motors and Ford were given exclusive franchises to build America's interstate highway system, and also all the highways that connect local communities. Now imagine that, based upon a financial crisis, these troubled companies decided to convert all "their" local arteries into toll-roads -- they then use incremental toll fees to severely limit all travel to and from small businesses. Why? This handicapping process reduced the need to invest in building better new roads, or repairing the dilapidated ones. But, wouldn't that short-sighted decision have a detrimental impact on the overall national economy? It's a moot point -- pure fantasy -- you say. The U.S. political leadership would never knowingly risk the nation's social and economic future on the financial viability of a restrictive duopoly. Or, would they? The 21st century Global Networked Economy travels across essential broadband infrastructure. The forced intro...