Don’t Let the Acronyms Win

So you’re ready to jump into CTV advertising—but the jargon is giving you analysis paralysis. We get it. “CPM, OTT, DSP”… it sounds more like a boardroom riddle than a media strategy.

That’s where this CTV Starter Pack comes in. Clear definitions, real context, and practical insights to help you feel confident in your next planning meeting—or platform dashboard.

What Is CTV, and Why Is It Everywhere?

Connected TV (CTV) refers to televisions or devices connected to the internet that can stream video content. It’s where your audience is watching everything from news to niche dramas—and it’s where you should be advertising.

What makes it powerful? Unlike traditional TV, CTV enables:

ZIP code-level targeting
Performance tracking
Real-time bidding
Cross-device attribution

Your Cheat Sheet: CTV Terms to Know

OTT (Over-the-Top)

TV-like content delivered via internet platforms like Peacock, Sling TV, or Crackle.

CTV

The hardware: Smart TVs, Roku, Xbox, etc.—where OTT content plays.

Programmatic Advertising

Real-time automated ad buying based on data and algorithms.

Learn the basics of programmatic video from eMarketer

Ad Pod

A group of ads shown back-to-back, similar to traditional commercial breaks.

Completion Rate

Measures how often users watch your ad to the end. It’s a signal of interest and impact.

Frequency Cap

Limits how many times an individual viewer sees your ad. Keeps your message fresh, not annoying.

Attribution

Connects the dots between ad exposure and viewer action—like clicks or store visits.

Q&A

What’s the difference between CTV and linear TV?

CTV is streamed, targeted, and trackable. Linear TV is traditional broadcast—broad, generic, and not measurable at the same level.

How can I tell if a CTV ad worked?

Check metrics like completion rate, conversions, and attributed visits to gauge performance.

Is CTV good for local businesses?

Absolutely. CTV ads can be targeted by ZIP code, giving local brands massive reach with minimal waste.

Quick Wins for Better Results

Target binge-watchers during peak evening hours
Refresh your ad creatives seasonally
Use QR codes to drive mobile engagement
Combine CTV with geo-fencing for in-store lift
Keep calls-to-action simple and bold

Why Start Your CTV Journey with Brandify?

We’ve built tools that help advertisers go from zero to streaming hero. With location targeting, attribution dashboards, and cross-platform syncing, Brandify gives you what you need to win the couch.

Start a smarter CTV strategy with Brandify

Wrap-Up: Less Guesswork, More Screen Time

You don’t have to master a new language—you just need a roadmap. Now you’ve got one.

With this starter glossary in hand, you’re not just ready to advertise on CTV. You’re ready to do it better than most.

Get a free targeting plan within the hour for your business here: https://brandify.io/targeting-plan/

Press Release: https://www.prlog.org/13053451

The CTV Starter Pack — A Glossary for First-Time Advertisers in Streaming Media