How to Upload VAST & VPAID Creatives

Integrate advanced video advertising into your campaigns with VAST & VPAID using XML-based video ads. Upload VAST tag creatives to ad:personam with this updated workflow that includes comprehensive tracking integration.

Note: VAST ad uploads require a paid subscription plan.

Steps

1. Go to Advertiser > Creative.
2. Click Create New Ad and select Video VAST Tag.
3. Fill in the creative details:
   • Ad Name: Enter a clear and descriptive name for your creative
   • VAST XML URL: Provide the secure URL (HTTPS) of your VAST XML file
4. Add VAST tracking pixels (optional):
   • Expand the VAST Tracking Events section
   • Add tracking URLs for various video events:
     • Impression, Click, First Quartile, Midpoint, Third Quartile
     • Completion, Skip, Error
5. Click Upload to submit your VAST creative.

⚠️ Validation Rules

• Ad name: Minimum 2 characters required
• VAST XML URL: Must be a valid URL starting with https://
• VAST tracking URLs: Must be valid URLs starting with https:// (optional)
• Subscription requirement: Requires any paid plan to upload VAST ads

VAST XML Requirements

URL Specifications

• Protocol: Must use HTTPS for secure delivery
• Content: URL should point to a CDN-hosted VAST XML file
• Hosting: Ensure the URL is active and properly hosted for ad delivery
• Content Types: Can contain Flash, HTML, or JavaScript content

VAST Compliance

• XML must comply with IAB VAST standards
• Should return valid VAST-compliant XML when accessed
• Must be properly formatted and structured

VAST Tracking Events

The platform supports comprehensive VAST tracking for detailed performance insights:

• Impression: Fired when the video ad is loaded and ready to play
• Click: Triggered when the user clicks the video ad
• First Quartile: When 25% of the video ad has been viewed
• Midpoint: When 50% of the video ad has been viewed
• Third Quartile: When 75% of the video ad has been viewed
• Completion: Fired when the entire video ad has been viewed
• Skip: Triggered when the user skips the video ad (if skippable)
• Error: Fired when an issue prevents the video from playing

Troubleshooting VAST Creative Issues

If you encounter issues with your VAST creative display:

1. Validate Your VAST XML

• Use a VAST validator to check if your URL returns valid VAST XML content
• Ensure the XML complies with IAB VAST standards
• Verify the URL is accessible and returns proper content

2. Check URL Accessibility

• Access the URL in a browser to verify VAST compliance
• If the response is empty, the URL may be inactive or incorrect
• Contact your CDN or hosting provider to resolve URL issues

3. Domain and Geographic Restrictions

• Ensure your hosting service isn't blocking domains like adnxs.com
• Check for geographic restrictions (e.g., US/NY-based blocking)
• Whitelist necessary domains if required

Tips & Best Practices

• Descriptive Naming: Use clear, meaningful names for easy creative management
• URL Testing: Always test your VAST XML URL before uploading
• CDN Hosting: Use reliable CDN hosting for optimal ad delivery
• Tracking Implementation: Set up key tracking events for comprehensive analytics
• VAST Validation: Regularly validate your VAST XML to ensure compliance
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor creative performance and troubleshoot issues promptly

Related

• Run video at scale: Programmatic Video Advertising
• Upload hosted video files: How to Upload Video Ads
• Add video tracking pixels: Adding Third-Party Tracking Pixels