Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes of a digital ad? When a programmatic campaign launches, it kicks off a fast-paced, data-driven process that plays out in real time across the internet. Here’s a simplified look at what a typical “day” looks like for one.
The campaign is set live through a DSP (Demand-Side Platform). The targeting—like location, demographics, or interests—is already defined, and the creative assets are ready to go. The DSP begins scanning available ad placements across websites, apps, and streaming platforms.
When someone opens a page that matches the targeting criteria, the DSP enters a real-time auction for that ad space.
These auctions happen in milliseconds. If the campaign wins the bid, the ad is served instantly to the user. As more people browse online, the campaign collects impressions (how many times the ad was shown) and engagement data.
The programmatic team monitors performance and begins optimizing—adjusting bids, refining audiences, or testing different creatives based on what’s working.
The DSP’s machine learning starts to adapt, favoring placements and audiences that are driving better results. Meanwhile, users who interacted with the ad—but didn’t convert—may begin seeing retargeted versions to encourage them back.
Metrics like spend, CTR (click-through rate), conversions, and top-performing placements are reviewed further. These insights shape the next round of optimizations, helping the campaign get smarter over time.
To the average user, ads seem to just “show up.” But in reality, each impression is the result of thousands of rapid decisions, constant optimization, and strategic planning. Programmatic advertising may be automated—but it’s far from hands-off.
Programmatic Strategy Manager
With a background in marketing and communications, Deja has expressed her passion for advertising in many different areas. Having studied both Communications and Psychology, she brings a unique perspective to her work, blending creativity with a deep understanding of consumer behavior to craft impactful strategy campaigns.