Tag: advertising

Subcultures

Understanding Subcultures: The Key to Effective Cross-Cultural Advertising Campaigns

If your marketing strategy still revolves around tired demographic buckets like “Millennials who like iced coffee” or “Gen Z with a Wi-Fi addiction,” it might be time for a reset. Because let’s be honest: people are more than their age and caffeine consumption. To truly connect with audiences today, brands need to dig deeper. Enter the world of subcultures, the secret sauce behind impactful, authentic, and wildly shareable cross-cultural advertising campaigns.

What Are Subcultures (and Why Should You Care)?

Think of subcultures as modern-day tribes—communities formed around shared interests, values, aesthetics, or experiences. We’re talking sneakerheads, cottagecore enthusiasts, Letterboxd nerds, and crypto traders who live in their moms’ basements (no judgment here, xoxo). These groups may not be huge, but they are powerful in influence.

When brands tap into subcultures with authenticity and respect, they unlock emotional resonance that no generic campaign can replicate. It’s not just about speaking to people, it’s about speaking their language. And when you get it right? These communities don’t just consume your content; they carry it, remix it, and spread it faster than a TikTok dance challenge.

Unlock Deeper Connections Through Subcultures

At ON Advertising, we’ve seen time and again that understanding subcultures is the heartbeat of successful cross-cultural marketing. It’s not enough to say, “We’re targeting urban millennials.” What does that even mean anymore? Instead, we ask: What do they value? What do they fear? What brings them together? 

Whether it’s a fandom, a fashion aesthetic, or a shared online universe (Reddit counts), subcultures give brands the opportunity to forge real connections based on identity and belonging—not just purchase intent.

Subcultures: Master the Art of Influence Mapping

Now, here’s where it gets a little spicy: Subcultural Influence Mapping. This is ON Advertising’s not-so-secret weapon—a strategic approach to identifying how niche communities shape broader cultural conversations. Because—spoiler alert! What starts in a micro-community often goes macro.

Think about how streetwear started in skateboarding subcultures before dominating global fashion. Or how fans of Korean pop culture drove the rise of K-beauty trends in the U.S. We analyze how these cultural breadcrumbs spread, then use those insights to craft campaigns with both laser focus and mass appeal.

Go Beyond Demographics with In-Depth Research

Understanding subcultures requires more than a quick scroll through Instagram. It demands real research, the kind that involves social listening, ethnographic analysis, and trend forecasting. You know, the stuff that sounds fancy but really just means “doing your homework.”

It’s through this deep dive that we uncover the nuances that make or break a campaign. Like why a slang term beloved in one community might be cringeworthy in another, or why featuring the right creator isn’t about follower count, it’s about credibility within the tribe.

Bridging Niche and Mass Markets (Without Trying Too Hard)

One of the biggest myths in marketing is that you have to choose between niche and broad appeal. But here’s the truth: when you engage subcultures authentically, your message doesn’t stay in the corner, it echoes across the room.

Great campaigns don’t dilute themselves for mass audiences; they invite the masses into something authentic. When your brand earns its place within a community, that community becomes your best amplifier.

Partner for Culturally Intelligent Campaigns

Bottom line? Marketing to subcultures isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about building trust. And trust is earned through consistency, empathy, and a little humility (no one likes a tourist who acts like a local five minutes after landing – they come off as fake and untrustworthy.) 

At ON Advertising, we specialize in creating culturally intelligent campaigns rooted in real-world insight and subcultural expertise. We help brands speak to these communities and grow with them, driving engagement, relevance, and long-term brand love. 

So next time you’re planning a campaign, don’t just ask who your audience is—ask what they stand for or believe in. It might just be the key to your next big breakthrough.

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

Media Buyer

The Modern Media Buyer: Strategies for Navigating Today’s Landscape

Being a media buyer in today’s world is a bit like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded… on a rollercoaster… during a thunderstorm. Okay, maybe not that complicated, but the modern media landscape is certainly wild. From TikTok to traditional TV, programmatic platforms to podcasts, the sheer number of channels where brands can engage their audience is both a blessing and a beautiful mess.

At ON Advertising, our team has made media buying our superpower. And like any great superhero origin story, ours is fueled by strategy, creativity, and probably way too much coffee. Definitely too much coffee. Just ask Paige. Anyway, it’s time to buckle up and learn how today’s media buyers (that’s us!) tackle the madness with style and smarts.

How Media Buyers Do It 

1. Navigating the Fragmented Digital Landscape (AKA Herding Digital Cats)

The modern media buyer isn’t just buying ad space—they’re orchestrating a symphony of social, streaming, search, and more. We’re talking programmatic ads one minute, influencer partnerships the next. Fragmentation is real, and it’s fierce. But fear not: a strategic, unified approach cuts through the chaos. At ON Advertising, we build comprehensive media plans that turn fragmentation into focus.

2. Data-Driven Decisions Are the New Black 

Gone are the days of guessing who’s watching your ad and crossing your fingers. Today’s media buyer lives and breathes data. With analytics dashboards and programmatic tools in our arsenal, we pinpoint audiences with surgical precision. Personalized messaging? Yes. Wasted impressions? Nope. It’s media buying—but smarter, leaner, and way more efficient.

3. Omnichannel or Bust

Modern consumers are everywhere, and so is the savvy media buyer. Whether it’s your inbox, social feed, or the podcast you binge on the way to work, your brand should be showing up with consistency and cohesion. Omnichannel integration ensures your message hits home no matter where your audience is browsing.

4. Agility: Because Plans Change (Almost Always)

If a media buyer had a motto, it might be: “Test, optimize, repeat.” The only thing constant in advertising is change, so we stay glued to performance data, tweaking campaigns faster than you can say “real-time reporting.” KPIs? We live for ’em.

5. Privacy vs. Personalization: The Delicate Dance

Consumers want personalized experiences… but also value their privacy (go figure). As modern media buyers, we walk a tightrope of compliance and customization. Tools like contextual targeting and first-party data strategies help us deliver relevance without being creepy. It’s a win-win.

6. Creative Is Still Top Dog

You can target the perfect person at the perfect time—but if your creative looks like it was made in Microsoft Paint circa 2002, you’re toast. Engaging, contextually relevant content is the not-so-secret weapon of any successful media buyer. That’s why our creative team works hand-in-hand with media planning to ensure messaging that breaks through the noise.

7. Staying Ahead of the Curve

A modern media buyer doesn’t just react—they anticipate. AI-powered targeting, influencer marketing, VR ads… we’re keeping tabs on it all. Because the future waits for no one, except for maybe my mom, who is still trying to figure out TikTok.

At ON Advertising, we don’t just buy media—we craft experiences, drive results, and stay ridiculously obsessed with the ever-evolving ad game. Whether you’re a brand looking to make sense of the madness or just here for the digital dad jokes, remember this: the media buyer is your MVP in the marketing world.

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

Experiential Marketing

Experiential Marketing: The Future of Advertising

At ON Advertising, we’ve seen a lot of trends come and go. However, one shift we’re not only excited about — we’re all ON for — is experiential marketing.

You’ve probably heard the term tossed around at marketing conferences or in between sips of overpriced oat milk lattes. But what is experiential marketing, really? And why are brands (the smart ones, anyway) putting more of their budget into experiences over traditional ads?

Let’s dive in.

What is Experiential Marketing?

In short, experiential marketing is all about engaging consumers in real-life, interactive experiences. These can be pop-up installations, live events, product demos, immersive environments, and so much more. Basically, anything that gets people off their screens and into your brand’s world.

Unlike traditional advertising, which talks at your audience, experiential marketing invites them to play, taste, touch, and experience your brand firsthand. It’s the difference between seeing a pizza commercial and walking into a surprise pizza party hosted by the brand — complete with a selfie wall, local artists, and a mysterious guy in a pepperoni suit. (Don’t worry, we’ve got contacts. That pepperoni guy is gonna be huge!)

This is the kind of engagement that really sticks with people, and that’s the magic.

Experiential Marketing

Why is Experiential Marketing the Future?

In a world of short attention spans, endless content, and consumers who can smell a sales pitch from three scrolls away, experiential marketing bulldozes through the noise.

It drives higher engagement and stronger brand recall. When someone has an emotional or memorable experience with a brand — instead of just seeing an ad — they’re far more likely to remember it, talk about it, and (most importantly) become loyal to it.

It also fuels organic brand advocacy. People love sharing cool experiences on social media, and nothing says “Look at me! I’m a trendsetter!” like tagging your friends in a video of you ziplining into a giant branded ball pit. (We’re sure this happened before.)

Most importantly, experiential marketing meets the evolving demand for experiences over things. Especially among Millennials and Gen Z, it’s not about what you buy — it’s about the stories you can tell. And if your brand can create exciting and meaningful stories that are fun to tell? You win, hands down. 

Key Elements for Experiential Marketing Success

Of course, you can’t just slap a logo on a balloon and call it a day. Successful experiential marketing requires a few key ingredients:

  • Clear Goals: What are you trying to achieve — awareness, leads, loyalty? The experience should be built with a strong purpose.
  • Defined Audience: Know who you’re targeting and tailor the event accordingly. (Sorry, your grandma may not be into your VR skateboarding demo.)
  • Authentic Brand Alignment: The experience should feel genuinely connected to your brand identity, not just trendy for trendy’s sake.
  • Creative Execution: This is your moment to shine — be bold, be weird, be unforgettable.
  • Call to Action: Whether it’s signing up, following, purchasing, or sharing, always give your audience the next step (without killing the vibe).

A Real-World Example We’re Excited About

One experiential campaign we’re especially proud of is happening right now in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We’re collaborating with local artist David Santiago and Blake’s Lotaburger to create a community-driven mural experience. David will begin by painting the outline of a mural on the side of a Blake’s Lotaburger location. The following week, members of the community will be invited to help fill in the mural with color — transforming it into a vibrant, collaborative art piece that celebrates local culture and creativity.

To top it all off, we’ll be hosting an unveiling event the next weekend featuring live music, local vendors, art activities, photo opportunities, and appearances by Blake’s Lotaburger ownership, employees, the artist, and members of the community. It’s more than a mural — it’s an immersive, meaningful brand moment that invites people to take part in something lasting.

Challenges & Considerations

Now, we couldn’t call ourselves a full-service agency if we didn’t keep it 100. Experiential marketing isn’t always easy. Measuring ROI can be tricky. What’s the value of a smile? A TikTok video? A long-term relationship? (We can help you answer all of those questions, by the way.) It can also be resource-intensive. Think big ideas, bigger logistics. Budget, staffing, permits — the unglamorous backbone of any great activation. And of course, there’s the safety and planning piece. We love a crowd, but not chaos. Smooth execution comes from precise prep and a team who knows what they’re doing. (Hi, that’s us.)

Experiential marketing is more than a buzzword — it’s the future of advertising. And at ON Advertising, we’ve got the creativity, strategy, and logistical muscle to bring your brand to life in unforgettable ways.

Ready to get on it? Let’s create an experience worth talking about.

Experiential Marketing

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

creative process

The Creative Process: From Brainstorm to Execution

The creative process is a mysterious journey. For many, it’s a delicate dance between inspiration and frustration, a constant ebb and flow that can lead to brilliance—or a horrified blank stare at your screen. What works for you may be something as simple as taking a long walk while listening to Steely Dan or even watching old ’90s toy commercials to spark a burst of inspiration. The truth is that the creative process is deeply personal.

What works for one person might not work for another, and what works for a graphic designer may differ wildly from what works for a copywriter or a videographer. Despite these differences, there are some common stages that many creatives go through to bring their ideas to life. Let’s dive into the creative process of three types of creatives: graphic designers, copywriters, and videographers.

Exploring the Creative Process:

Graphic Designers

For a graphic designer, the creative process often begins with a spark of inspiration and evolves into something visual. Here’s an example of how they might approach it:

  • The Spark: Inspiration hits—whether from a photo, color palette, or client brief. Something clicks, and the design journey begins.
  • Research & Moodboarding: The designer gathers ideas, trends, and images to shape the visual direction through moodboards.
  • Sketching & Drafting: Initial sketches and rough drafts lay the groundwork for the concept, moving closer to reality.
  • Refining the Design: Colors, shapes, and typography are fine-tuned, bringing the idea to life and adding cohesion.
  • Final Execution: The design is polished and aligned, with final tweaks and feedback before completion.

Copywriters

Copywriting might seem as simple as putting words on paper, but it’s more like folding 100 fitted sheets blindfolded while someone tases you. Okay, maybe not that extreme, but it’s definitely not easy. The writing process is a wild safari through the jungle of language and clarity. Here’s how a copywriter typically tackles a project:

  • Understanding the Brief: The copywriter sets the foundation of the piece by clarifying the message, target audience, and the proper tone.
  • Brainstorming & Outlining: The copywriter attempts to capture as many free-flowing, relevant ideas living in their brain as possible before organizing them into a structured outline that makes sense to others.
  • Drafting the Copy: The first draft is written imperfectly, aiming to clearly and effectively convey ideas and messages.
  • Editing & Refining: Unnecessary words (and sometimes jokes) are cut, and sentences are tightened for clarity and impact.
  • Final Review: The copy is tested for tone and readability. After final adjustments, it’s ready to be released into the wild—or perhaps just sent to the client.

Videographers

Videography combines creativity with technical skill. For videographers, the creative process often involves a lot of collaboration and technical problem-solving. Here’s their typical approach:

  • Concept Development: The videographer envisions the final product, playing it out in their head. Whether it’s a commercial or social media video, they can envision almost every detail.
  • Storyboarding & Planning: A storyboard or shot list is created, detailing sequences, angles, and timing to tell a compelling story. Generally, this is done on a tight deadline and can be extremely time- and energy-consuming.
  • Filming & Capturing Content: All the pieces come together for filming. Sometimes, this involves actors, and other times, just objects. The videographer captures footage over an extended period, often from multiple angles, waiting anywhere from minutes to hours between shot setups.
  • Editing & Post-Production: The footage is edited, unnecessary shots and superfluous material are removed, and sound effects, visual effects, music, and sometimes voiceovers are added to maximize impact.
  • Final Cut & Feedback: The final version is reviewed, adjusted based on feedback, and prepared for distribution.

Overall, the creative process is never a one-size-fits-all journey. Whether you’re a graphic designer, copywriter, or videographer, your approach will differ based on medium and your unique way of thinking. Yet, the beauty of creativity lies in its diversity—every individual’s process is a personal reflection of their artistry. Embrace the quirks, the chaos, and the inspiration because, in the end, it’s all part of bringing your ideas to life.

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

niche marketing

The Psychology of Niche Marketing: Understanding Your Audience’s Needs

Niche marketing isn’t about casting a wide net and hoping for the best. It’s about focusing on a specific audience, speaking directly to their desires, and offering them solutions that matter. ON Advertising believes that effective niche marketing isn’t only about selling a product – it’s about building relationships, understanding needs, and connecting with people on a deeper level. Let’s break down why this works and how you can use these insights to craft a successful marketing strategy.

Niche Marketing Tips

Focus on Specific Desires

Successful niche marketing hinges on understanding the specific desires and pain points of your target audience. While broad marketing strategies try to appeal to everyone, niche marketing is all about pinpointing a well-defined group with unique needs. This means you have to do your research, get to know your audience like a new friend, and tailor your messaging to address what they want – not just what they passively want but what they really want. What keeps them up at night? What do they crave? 

Empathy and Connection

As we said, niche marketing is about connecting with your audience on an emotional level. At the heart of this connection is empathy. If you understand your audience’s struggles, dreams, and challenges, you can craft marketing messages that truly resonate. People want to feel heard, seen, and understood. When your marketing reflects this understanding, you build trust and loyalty. And trust? That’s the secret ingredient in successful marketing.

Identify Shared Values and Beliefs

Niche audiences often share core values and beliefs that shape their purchasing decisions. Whether it’s a passion for sustainability, a love for a specific hobby, or a strong political stance, these shared values create a sense of community. In niche marketing, aligning your brand with these values strengthens the emotional connection with your audience. When you demonstrate that your product or service aligns with what they care about, you reinforce that sense of belonging. And let’s be real – people want to feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

Understanding Subcultures

Many niche markets are subcultures in their own right. They have their own language, norms, and trends. Think about the rise of veganism, the DIY movement, or even niche hobbies like birdwatching. These subcultures often have a distinct identity, and tapping into that can give your marketing an edge. And as ON Advertising always emphasizes, cross-cultural advertising is more important than ever. When you understand their nuances and speak their language, your marketing feels more authentic. It’s not just about targeting a demographic; it’s about joining a conversation that’s already happening.

Addressing Pain Points and Solving Problems

At its core, niche marketing is about solving specific problems for your audience. Whether it’s a product that simplifies their daily routine or a service that addresses a specific challenge, you must highlight how your offering improves their life. People are always searching for solutions to their pain points. If you can position your product as the answer they’ve been looking for, you’re golden. Be the hero to their problem – it’s the way to build a loyal following.

The Power of Identity

Lastly, niche marketing taps into a powerful psychological driver: identity. People love to identify with groups that reflect who they are. Whether it’s a specific lifestyle, belief system, or hobby, niche marketing often helps reinforce a person’s sense of belonging. By aligning your brand with that identity, you’re not just selling a product – you’re reinforcing the consumer’s place in the world. This feeling of belonging is a powerful motivator, making them more likely to buy and become a brand advocate.

Niche marketing is all about understanding the psychological drivers of your audience. By focusing on specific desires, empathizing with their needs, addressing their pain points, and aligning with their values, you can build a marketing strategy that resonates deeply with your audience. At ON Advertising, we understand the nuances of niche marketing, and we know how to craft messages that hit home. By tapping into the psychology behind niche marketing, you can turn your audience into loyal fans who feel understood, supported, and excited about your offering. 

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

programmatic advertising

Programmatic: A Comprehensive Guide to Automated Advertising

Let’s be real – advertising is a lot like dating. You’ve got to find the right person, find the perfect moment to ask them out, and, of course, find the ideal setting for the actual date. But what if we told you there’s a smarter way with programmatic advertising? This tech-savvy matchmaker and futuristic solution does all the hard work while you sleep. Yes, you read that right. While you’re counting those sheep. 

What is Programmatic Advertising?

At its core, programmatic advertising uses automated technology to buy and place digital ads. Gone are the days of manual negotiations and endless email chains with ad sellers. With this type of advertising, it’s all about using algorithms and data to serve the right ad to the right person at the right time. Think of it as the “set it and forget it” of the advertising world — except it’s not just “forgotten,” it’s continuously optimizing.

How Programmatic Advertising Works

Programmatic advertising uses real-time data to make decisions about where and when to place ads. Imagine you’re an online shopper looking for Crocs (we’ve all been there, no judgment). As you browse, programmatic advertising kicks in, analyzing your behavior and serving an ad for a pair of Crocs just like the ones you were eyeing. It’s almost like the internet’s way of reading your mind — a tad creepy, but in a good way.

The process involves several players, like Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs) and Supply-Side Platforms (SSPs). The DSP buys ad space, while the SSP sells it. When you visit a website, the SSP opens up an auction, and the DSP places bids to display an ad to you. All of this happens in milliseconds. It’s like the world’s fastest game of “who gets the ad?”

Benefits of Programmatic Advertising

Programmatic advertising is popular because it saves time. That means no more spending hours negotiating rates or manually placing ads. It’s also incredibly efficient. Programmatic allows for hyper-targeted ads, meaning you’re not wasting your budget on random clicks from people who have no interest in your product.

And let’s not forget the power of data. With programmatic, you can track the effectiveness of your campaigns in real-time and make adjustments on the fly. It’s like having a GPS for your advertising journey — always recalculating to get you to the destination faster and more efficiently.

Programmatic Advertising Best Practices

Of course, just because programmatic advertising is powerful doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all. Here are a few best practices to keep in mind:

  1. Target with Precision: Leverage data to understand your audience and their behaviors. The more you know, the better you can serve them relevant ads.
  2. Optimize your Creatives: Make sure your ads are not only eye-catching but also match the intent of your audience. The right ad at the right moment is what really makes programmatic shine.
  3. Monitor Performance: Just because programmatic is automated doesn’t mean you can forget about it. Track the results, and optimize as needed.

Challenges of Programmatic Advertising

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: no system is perfect. One of the biggest challenges of programmatic advertising is ad fraud. Since transactions happen in real-time, there’s a chance that bots or fraudulent websites could trick the system into placing ads in low-quality spaces. But don’t worry; there are tools and solutions available to help detect and prevent fraud.

Another challenge is the complexity of the ecosystem. With so many platforms involved, it can be overwhelming for beginners. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll be running campaigns like a pro.

Programmatic vs. Traditional Advertising

So, how does programmatic stack up against traditional advertising? Traditional advertising is more like a one-size-fits-all approach. You buy ad space, run your ads, and hope for the best. With programmatic, you’re using data to fine-tune your approach, making it more targeted, flexible, and efficient. It’s the difference between throwing everything you have at the wall and using laser-scope precision. 

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, programmatic advertising stands out as a powerful, data-driven solution that offers efficiency, precision, and optimization. Sure, it’s a little more high-tech than traditional methods, but it’s also the future of advertising — and the future is now. So, next time you’re planning your ad campaign, consider letting programmatic take the reins. It’ll do all the heavy lifting, while you kick back and watch the results roll in. Happy advertising!

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

interactive design

Interactive Design in Advertising: Captivating Your Target Audience

Let’s face it: we’ve all seen ads that make us roll our eyes and hit “skip.” However, ads sometimes can make you stop, smile, and perhaps even click. What’s the difference? Enter interactive design—the secret sauce that makes advertising fun, engaging, and, dare we say, memorable?

What is Interactive Design?

At its core, interactive design is about creating experiences that engage its audience with content. It’s not just a static image or a simple message; it’s a call to action that invites participation. Whether swiping, clicking, or dragging, interactive design creates an experience where the audience isn’t just a viewer—they’re a contributor.

The Benefits of Interactive Design

So why should advertisers care about interactive design? Simple. People love being involved! Allowing your audience to interact with your brand makes them more likely to remember it. Think about it—how often have you tried a quiz or personalized poll and shared the results? That’s interactive design at work, building a connection.

But it’s not just about engagement. This type of design leads to better brand recall, higher conversion rates, and even more social media shares. Plus, it allows for deeper insights into customer preferences. So, while your audience enjoys their experience, you’re gathering valuable data for future campaigns.

How Has Interactive Design Helped Shape Modern Advertising?

Gone are the days of passive advertising. Today’s consumers are more than just recipients of an ad—they’re co-creators of the experience. The rise of interactive design has fundamentally changed how brands connect with their audience. Think of the viral campaigns where you can design your own product, vote on what happens next in a story, or even test out a product virtually. This level of engagement didn’t exist in traditional ads.

Take, for example, Instagram stories or Facebook polls. These features let brands engage with their audience directly in real-time. And let’s not forget AR (augmented reality) ads that allow users to try on virtual clothes or makeup. Interactive design has genuinely leveled up the advertising game, making it more fun and engaging than ever before.

Interactive Design Across Different Platforms

What makes interactive design so powerful is its versatility. It can be tailored to each platform, whether on social media, websites, or mobile apps. On Instagram, polls and interactive stickers create a dialogue with followers. You might find a product configurator on a website that lets you customize your purchase. And let’s not overlook mobile apps with games, quizzes, or AR features that immerse users in branded experiences.

Each platform offers a different way to engage, but the goal remains to capture attention and create a connection. When done right, interactive design leaves a lasting impression.

Interactive design is revolutionizing the advertising world. It’s not just about promoting products—it’s about creating experiences that resonate with your audience. So, if you want to captivate your target audience and keep them returning for more, ensure your next campaign has a healthy dose of interactive design.

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

ON Advertising is the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

super bowl ads

The Best Super Bowl Ads of 2025: Our Top Picks

We’ve been watching Super Bowl commercials for years, and each year, we get to see how brands get creative, bold, and innovative in reaching their audience. The 2025 Super Bowl ads were no different, featuring a fantastic mix of humor, heart, and sheer oddity. From nostalgic parodies to thought-provoking campaigns, here’s a compiled list of what we think are the best ads of the season (in no particular order).

“Cowboy Head” by Mischief @ No Fixed Address

Tubi’s 60-second spot for their “If It’s In You, It’s In Here” campaign is definitely one of the most bizarre and memorable ads of the year. A boy born with a fleshy cowboy hat on his head faces social adversity in a world where everyone else sports a Gandalf-inspired wizard flesh hat head. The clever and weird narrative plays with the concept of shifting trends and the absurdity of internet culture, making it a perfect fit for a free streaming platform known for its unique offerings. It’s strange in the best way possible.

“These Legs: A Dove Big Game Film | #KeepHerConfident” by Ogilvy UK

Dove’s latest addition to their “Campaign for Real Beauty” tackles the issue of body positivity in a simple yet impactful way. The ad features a 3-year-old girl running joyfully down the street, oblivious to body image concerns that won’t affect her until years later. By showing how society’s expectations of beauty seep into our lives at a young age, this ad delivers a powerful message with minimal fuss. A standout in a sea of flashy Super Bowl ads.

“Dunkings 2: The Movie” by Artists Equity

This ad/sketch is all over the place, with a lot going on, including a Jay & Silent Bob cameo, Casey Affleck replacing Matt Damon, and a beef between two boy bands, one sponsored by Dunkin. However, a hilarious appearance by Jeremy Strong as Dunkin Coffee amusingly comments on the real-life Succession actor’s ridiculous and widely criticized method acting philosophies, which makes it all worth it.   

“So Win” by Wieden+Kennedy Portland

Nike’s black-and-white commercial featuring strong female athletes is an absolute triumph. The ad’s simple message, paired with a powerful voice-over, challenges the notion that women can’t achieve greatness in sports and beyond. It’s a timeless reminder of resilience, empowerment, and the fact that women can do anything—even when society says they can’t.

“Goldilocks and the Three Trucks” by GSD&M

Glen Powell’s sheer charisma shines in this ad, where he plays the protagonist of a mock fairytale. Dressed in various costumes, Powell delivers an energetic and captivating performance, showing that sometimes an ad can succeed based solely on the star power of its lead. The simplicity of the concept and Powell’s charm made it an enjoyable and unforgettable moment during the game.

“Kiss From a Lime” by Goodby, Silverstein & Partners

In a delightfully weird ad, a CGI version of Seal as an actual seal serenades viewers with a rendition of his iconic hit “Kiss From a Rose,” but with a twist—it’s about Mountain Dew Baja Blast and a lime. The twist is a bit lame and nonsensical but, watching a CGI version of Seal as an actual seal is wildly amusing, no matter the circumstances. It’s refreshing to see a spot lean so hard into absurdity without being completely obnoxious. 

“Slow Monday” by Mischief @ No Fixed Address

“Mondays stink” isn’t exactly a hot take, but Coors Light gives it a fun twist by featuring sloths doing typical Monday activities. Instead of humans, these adorable creatures embody our collective Sunday laziness. The ad includes a series of funny moments, like a sloth too lazy to chase a lawnmower, resulting in a destroyed flower bed and a slow-speed bank robbery chase. The spot wraps up with a sloth delivering a Coors Light case to another sloth, who immediately transforms into a human. The message? Maybe we’re all sloths because we’re lazy, and doing literally anything takes so much effort. It’s a bit odd but undeniably cute and funny.

“Dream Job” by Google

Google’s ad is simple yet deeply emotional. It features a middle-class dad using Gemini’s AI assistant to prep for a job interview. As he reflects on past challenges, it’s clear his hardest job has been learning how to be a dad. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, the ad’s sincerity is enough to bring a tear to even the toughest football fan.


These 2025 Super Bowl ads showcase the best of creative advertising: from wild humor to deep emotion, these brands know how to captivate an audience. At ON Advertising, we know how to craft compelling ads that not only entertain but also leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking to create a video advertisement as impactful as these Super Bowl spots, reach out to ON Advertising. Let us help you bring your brand’s story to life in the most exciting way possible!

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

cross culture

Own It: The Power of Cross Culture Marketing

Welcome to the fourth edition of “Own It,” where key leaders at ON Advertising share their thoughts on important topics. Today, we’ll discuss ON Advertising’s President & General Manager, Darren Higgs’ trip to the 2024 Agency Leadership Summit in Boca Raton, Florida, and how he learned about cross culture marketing. 

Summit Inspiration 

At the 2024 Agency Leadership Summit in Boca Raton, there were many impressive keynote speakers, but Dr. Marcus Collins really stood out to Darren. In Collins’ book For the Culture, he explores the idea of tribes—how people are drawn to groups they feel a connection to, but still want to maintain their individuality. This concept is highly relevant in today’s marketing, where brands don’t just sell products but also promote ideologies, aiming to connect with consumers on a deeper cultural level. Let’s dive into that.

Dr. Collins’ For the Culture 

In his book For the Culture, Collins explores how brands connect with consumers on a deeper level, rather than simply selling products. Drawing from behavioral science, sociology and cultural anthropology, Collins reveals how modern advertising taps into our deep desire for belonging. At the heart of his insights is the concept of tribes—groups of people united by shared beliefs, interests, and behaviors. These tribes aren’t defined by products; they represent the identities and communities we create.

Collins argues that today’s brands don’t just sell products—they sell identities. The products we buy and the brands we support reflect our values and help us express who we are and where we belong. In today’s advertising, the line between consumer and community member is often blurred.

The Need for Belonging: Tribes and Individuality in Cross Culture

Humans are wired for connection and community, yet we also crave individuality. This tension creates a fascinating dynamic in modern advertising: we want to belong, but we also want to stand out. The idea of cross culture—the blending of different cultural elements—helps modern brands navigate this need. By tapping into cultural movements, societal shifts, and shared experiences, brands craft messages that resonate with diverse audiences while reinforcing unity within each tribe.

The Advantage of Cross Culture in Advertising

Today’s advertising is about why the product matters and why consumers should care. It’s not just about functionality; it’s about tapping into cultural touchpoints. Liquid Death, for instance, engages with the broader cultural conversation about sustainability and environmentalism, forging a connection with consumers who are passionate about these causes. Their message isn’t just about selling water; it’s about selling a belief system that speaks to the collective.

Leveraging a cross culture approach enables brands to speak to multiple tribes at once. By weaving together different cultural elements, they build identities and shared beliefs that transcend the transactional nature of traditional advertising.

cross culture

Connecting on a Personal Level Through Cross Culture

Effective advertising today is about building relationships, not just transactions. Successful brands connect with consumers by aligning their messages with cultural touchpoints, values, and beliefs. The cross culture approach allows brands to resonate with their audiences on a deeply personal level. By understanding the role of cross culture, brands create meaningful connections that go beyond just selling a product—they help consumers express their identity and beliefs.

As Marcus Collins highlights in For the Culture that the true power of advertising lies in the tribes we create and the identities we help shape. By understanding and leveraging cross culture in today’s advertising landscape, brands can foster lasting connections and drive growth that goes beyond the transactional.

Darren’s Final Takeaways

As previously mentioned, a crucial takeaway from Dr. Marcus Collins’ speech was the concept of tribes—how people seek a sense of belonging while striving to maintain their individuality. This idea is highly relevant in modern advertising, where companies no longer simply sell products, but create identities and forge cultural connections with their audiences. 

Cross cultural marketing is all about uncovering a brand’s core beliefs and aligning them with the values of specific subcultures—or “tribes.” Rather than employing a one-size-fits-all approach, it focuses on tailoring messages to distinct audiences with shared values. That’s why ON Advertising is thrilled to announce that we are integrating key principles of cross-cultural marketing into every aspect of our business, including social media. This approach is not only highly effective, but it is also a forward-thinking strategy that will shape the future of our company and the advertising industry.

ON Advertising is the Largest Minority-Owned, Full-Service Advertising Agency in the Southwest

We are the largest minority-owned full-service agency in the Southwest and we did not get there by accident. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your business grow to the next level.

Our brand strategists work synergistically to develop and support successful market influence. Our full-scale consideration of each facet of marketing and advertising operates with clear goals and objectives laid out for each client and their unique needs. 

Our team of thinkers, creatives, and researchers blend their talents to develop a brand that works for you. Whether you are seeking additional advertising advice for your Gen Z audience or any other marketing project, we can make it happen!

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