
Multiscreen use is now the norm, with the average UK consumer using three connected devices to access the internet. The adoption of connected mobile devices continues to grow, with 61 per cent of adults now using a smartphone and 44 per cent of households owning a tablet. Distinctions in consumer behaviour between these devices have blurred and previous assumptions about mobile versus desktop no longer apply.
Delivering campaigns across a range of connected devices should be a high priority for brands, as consumer exposure to advertising on multiple screens has a positive impact on metrics such as purchase consideration and recommendation intent. Viewing an ad on more than one device can also give consumers a positive impression of a brand, making it appear more informative and innovative. Implementing multiscreen campaigns can therefore have a significant impact on audience engagement and ROI. So with this in mind what do marketers need to know to make the most of their multiscreen campaigns?Attention depends on device
To a large extent consumers are device agnostic and will consume all content on any screen. However, our recent research has shown that what particular device is used is key when it comes to consumer attention and receptivity. With this in mind marketers need to consider devices when planning a campaign to ensure consumers are at the peak of their attentiveness and are highly receptive to the ad. For example, consumer attention on a tablet is at its highest when in an external place such as a coffee shop.Context is key
Content type is vital
Content type or ad format have a greater impact on campaign success than device type. For example, pre-roll video ads result in a greater uplift in brand recall, brand favourability, brand association, and purchase intent than banner ads, across all devices. However, physical context should be considered when determining the type of content served. When consumers are at home they are receptive to longer, more sophisticated brand messages, whereas when they are out and about – often using smartphones – they are more receptive and require short, simple messaging in the form of ‘snackable’ content.Engagement modes vary
Screen size matters
While it is clear that device should not be the driving force behind campaign planning, there is one key element that should be considered – screen size. Smartphones and tablets have both traditionally been referred to as ‘mobile’ devices, but tablets are actually used more like laptops because of their similar screen size. Devices with a larger screen – such as laptops and tablets – are more likely to be used for product investigation and entertainment, whereas the small screen of the smartphone is more widely used for quick task-based activities, and relevant ads should be delivered accordingly. The age of mobile marketing – and of dividing media plans into device type – has come to an end. Multiscreen ad campaigns should be driven by physical context, content type, and mode of engagement, rather than being determined solely by device. Paul Lyonette is UK country manager at YuMe. Image sourceShare this story