When you analyze campaign performance across multiple platforms, you need clear definitions for where your media lives and how it operates. The system categorizes your data into Channels, Publishers, and Ad Formats to provide exact visibility into your media buys. Let's review these definitions and how to apply them across your dashboard.
Step 1: Understand the Core Definitions
Every ad connects to a Channel, and some also include a Publisher or specific Ad Format. Here is how the system defines each category:
| Category | Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | The platforms where you purchase and manage ads. In Dashboards and Reporting, YouTube and Display now appear under the Channel filter. | DV360, Google Ads, Amazon, YouTube, Display |
| Publishers | The specific locations where your ads display to the audience. In Dashboards and Reporting, this is now represented by the Platform filter, which replaces the Publisher filter. | YouTube |
| Ad Formats | The precise media type required for the placement. | Image, Video |
Step 2: Apply Dashboard Filters
Use filters to isolate data by Channel, Platform, or Ad Format across all Channels. For example, you can filter by Channel to view all YouTube ads, regardless of the purchase Channel. In Dashboards and Reporting, the Platform filter replaces the Publisher filter, and Creatives uses the same updated filter setup. Custom Filters will continue to use the existing Channel/Publisher options for now.
Step 3: Configure Pre-Flight Submissions
When you evaluate an asset before launch, you must select the precise Channel, Publisher, and Ad Format. Platforms like Amazon DSP, DV360, and Google Ads require an exact Ad Format selection. If you select a format that does not support your media type, the system will display an alert to prevent a mismatch. Pre-Flight continues to use the legacy Channel/Publisher setup, so the selection there remains DV360 / Google Ads rather than the updated Channel filter options.
Step 4: Extract Data and API Connectivity
When you extract data manually, all CSV exports include distinct columns for Channel, Publisher, and Ad Format. If you use the API, note these platform specifics:
- Report API: Includes a Publisher field for your data integration. The API currently labels the Google Ads Channel as "YouTube Ads". Future versions will correct this label.
- Content API: You can submit assets as usual, but the system does not support Publisher selection yet. The same temporary "YouTube Ads" label applies here as well.
Troubleshooting
Did you encounter a roadblock with your data categories?
- Format Alerts: If you receive an error when you request an evaluation, check your Ad Format. You likely selected a format that restricts your specific media type (like an image format for a video file).
- API Data Discrepancies: If you notice "YouTube Ads" listed as a Channel in your API data extract, remember this is the temporary label for Google Ads.
Please contact support@creativex.com if you have more questions.