5 min read

6 Ways Supply Path Optimization Helps Publishers Boost Revenue

Tushar Kirtane
Tushar Kirtane
Updated on
June 27, 2023
Kyle Savage
Kyle Savage
Contributor
Ad Tech

Introduction: What is SPO and How Can Publishers Use It?

In today's rapidly evolving digital advertising landscape, publishers are constantly seeking ways to maximize their revenue and enhance the efficiency of their ad inventory. One approach that has gained significant traction in recent years is supply path optimization (SPO). SPO involves evaluating and optimizing the pathways through which ad impressions are bought and sold, with the goal of increasing transparency, reducing inefficiencies, and ultimately boosting revenue. In this blog post, we will delve into six reasons why publishers should care about supply path optimization and how SPO can contribute to their revenue growth.

1. Increased Transparency:

Supply path optimization empowers publishers by providing them with greater transparency into the programmatic supply chain. By optimizing the path through which impressions are sold, publishers can gain insights into the various intermediaries involved in the process, including supply-side platforms (SSPs), demand-side platforms (DSPs), and ad exchanges. This visibility allows publishers to identify and eliminate non-transparent or low-value intermediaries that may be diluting their revenue potential.

2. Elimination of Inefficient Routes:

Through SPO, publishers can identify and eliminate inefficient routes that result in unnecessary fees or reduced bid opportunities. By streamlining the supply chain, publishers can reduce the number of intermediaries and consolidate their relationships with trusted partners. This consolidation allows publishers to focus on the most valuable and efficient routes, leading to improved revenue generation.

3. Quality Control and Brand Safety:

Supply path optimization also enables publishers to exercise greater control over the quality and safety of the ads appearing on their platforms. SPO allows publishers to select and vet partners in their supply chain to mitigate the risks associated with ad fraud, domain spoofing, and non-brand-safe content. By ensuring that ads are served in brand-safe environments, publishers can attract premium advertisers and command higher CPMs, resulting in increased revenue.

4. Enhanced Competition and Auction Dynamics:

SPO encourages healthy competition among the demand partners vying for publishers' ad inventory. By optimizing the supply path, publishers can attract a wider range of demand sources, including premium brands, agencies, and programmatic buyers. Increased competition drives up demand and can lead to higher auction dynamics, resulting in better prices for publishers' impressions.

5. Improved User Experience:

Optimizing the supply path also benefits publishers by improving the user experience on their platforms. By eliminating slow-loading ads or redundant ad calls caused by inefficient supply paths, publishers can provide a faster and smoother browsing experience for their audience. A positive user experience not only enhances user engagement but also encourages advertisers to invest more in publishers' inventory, thereby increasing revenue opportunities.

6. Data-Driven Decision Making:

Supply path optimization relies on data analysis and insights to identify the most effective routes for buying and selling impressions. Publishers can leverage data-driven decision making to identify trends, performance patterns, and audience preferences. By gaining a deeper understanding of their inventory's value and their audience's needs, publishers can optimize their supply paths accordingly, ensuring that they are maximizing revenue from their most valuable assets.

Conclusion: Supply Path Optimization Can Help Publishers Boost Revenue

Supply path optimization has emerged as a crucial strategy for publishers looking to boost their revenue in the highly competitive digital advertising landscape. By optimizing the pathways through which impressions are bought and sold, publishers can increase transparency, eliminate inefficiencies, maintain brand safety, and improve the overall user experience. 

Through SPO, publishers can take control of their programmatic ad inventory and forge stronger relationships with trusted partners, ultimately leading to higher revenue generation. As the digital advertising ecosystem continues to evolve, publishers who prioritize supply path optimization will be well-positioned to capitalize on the changing landscape and unlock new revenue opportunities.

If you’re interested in learning more, check out Kevel Relay, as well as an overview of our APIs. You can also get a demo and a free API key here.

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