The Wall Street Journal today reported that AOL has plans to offer its advertisers a new format that will include not only a traditional tower-style ad, but also room to incorporate video and social media feeds from sites such as Facebook and Twitter.
A follow-up story published online around midday included sample layouts for the new ads, which could pave the way for a new style of advertising, which will enable marketers to engage with consumers like never before.
As much as I, as a consumer, dislike pop-up ads on Websites, the thought of being able to place a targeted ad–complete with supporting video and offering consumers the ability to “like” (read: engage) a product or service–could be a big boost for AOL and its advertisers, and other online media and marketers who choose to follow their lead.
Stay tuned.
Meanwhile Back at the Ranch is written by Bill Patterson, president of Kansas City, Mo.-based Nation Ranch, a strategic consulting firm specializing in brand management, public relations and crisis communications.
