d-force vs Locality

Virtual Minds: Building Interoperable Operating Model for Total Video

Virtual Minds argues that true convergence between linear TV and CTV advertising requires an interoperability layer rather than replacing existing systems, preserving the strengths of each environment. Managing Director Ricarda Jebsen and Business Development Manager Max Deyerl highlight that while audiences already consume video seamlessly, planning and measurement remain siloed. The company cites progress in Austria, where broadcasters under JIC AGTT have adopted digital buying logic, CPMs, and real-time HbbTV signals (Teletest 2.0) to optimize linear TV via Virtual Minds' Media Manager. The approach aims to extend this model to all video channels, including mobile and DOOH, and emphasizes that AI will only improve workflows if data silos are integrated first. Virtual Minds advocates for industry-wide collaboration to establish common standards and avoid fragmentation, positioning its infrastructure as the solution for a converged 'Total Video' operating model.

• Virtual Minds proposes an interoperable convergence layer for linear TV and CTV integration, preserving strengths of each environment.
• Since 2024, AGTT/Teletest members in Austria use Virtual Minds Media Manager for dynamic linear TV optimization using CPMs and real-time HbbTV signals.
• Ricarda Jebsen is Managing Director of Virtual Minds and d-force, while Max Deyerl is Manager Business Development.

Locality's Tom Wolfe Advocates Data Path Optimization Over Short SPO Paths

In an AdExchanger podcast, Locality's SVP of Programmatic Strategy, Tom Wolfe, argues that the ad industry's focus on shortening supply paths is misguided. He contends that while reducing tech costs is important, an overemphasis on eliminating intermediaries can degrade signal quality and data fidelity. Wolfe advocates for 'data path optimization' to preserve rich signals alongside inventory. He also criticizes top-down national TV strategies that fail in local markets, highlighting the need for bottom-up market intelligence. Additionally, he dismisses AI hype, asserting that the competitive advantage lies in proprietary data feeding models, not the AI itself. The podcast covers local TV fragmentation and the evolving TV ecosystem.

• Tom Wolfe, SVP of Programmatic Strategy and Partnerships at Locality, argues that shorter supply paths are not inherently better.
• Wolfe advocates for 'data path optimization' to preserve data fidelity during programmatic ad delivery.
• Wolfe criticizes top-down national TV strategies, asserting that local markets require bottom-up intelligence.

Meet Kouros Esfahany, CTO

Kouros Esfahany is Chief Technology Officer of Locality, where he leads the ongoing evolution of the company’s technology platform, spanning …