Why TV spot length matters

This article argues that 15-second TV spots are not long enough, and that 30-seconds are more effective, because of how the human brain works.

Why TV spot length matters

Charles Young

For decades TV advertisers have debated the pros and cons of different commercial lengths. This has been a debate fuelled mostly by rapidly rising media costs.

TV-SPOT EVOLUTION

In the 1950s, the standard TV spot was 60 seconds in length. Then media inflation hit and the 60-second spot was forced to contract. The 1970s saw the eventual dominance of 30-second TV ads. Quickly following its 30-second parent, we saw the birth of the 15-second spot. Even shorter films continue to emerge, as today's media mix supports anything a creative mind can imagine.

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