Managing OOH in-house or with external help

Out of home (OOH) spends continue to grow, with a reported near $2B allocated to this channel in Q1 alone, a record high. It makes sense, and validates our earlier prediction of OOH as a "last channel standing" in the new world.

That's why deciding whether to manage campaigns in-house or partner with external experts is an increasingly important choice, that can shape your results and workflow.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer: every team’s needs, resources, and goals are unique. Taking the time to carefully consider your options will help you set your OOH strategy up for long-term success.

Here are a few key pillars to help guide your decision:

1. Resources:
   Do you have the bandwidth and team capacity to run OOH campaigns effectively? OOH can require attention to detail from planning and creative to execution and measurement, so it’s important to assess whether your current staff can take on these responsibilities without stretching themselves too thin.

2. OOH expertise:
   While OOH has traditionally required specialized knowledge, modern software platforms (like AdQuick!) make it much easier to understand and manage even the most complex campaigns. Still, having someone on your team who’s comfortable navigating the nuances of OOH can help you get the most from your investment.

3. Current paid media management:
   Who is currently running your paid media channels, and how did that setup come to be? Sometimes, teams inherit processes simply because “that’s how it’s always been done.” Re-examining your approach can uncover opportunities for greater efficiency, collaboration, or even innovation.

4. Scalability:
   Think about your growth trajectory and how quickly your OOH needs might expand. Outside partners can help you scale up rapidly and tap into new markets, while building an in-house team may give you more direct control as your campaigns grow in complexity.

5. Innovation:
   Are you looking to test new creative formats, experiment with emerging technologies, or break into unfamiliar markets? External experts often bring a fresh perspective and new ideas, but in-house teams can move quickly to iterate and adapt when inspiration strikes.

Of course, no matter what you choose, AdQuick can make things a cinch.

Whether you’re building your own OOH expertise or looking for a trusted partner, we’re here to help you succeed every step of the way.

And don't be afraid to ask us or your peers for guidance, our category is very open and willing to provide perspectives to anyone who asks. There's never any bad questions.