For my topic proposal I want to explore the rise in popularity of digital advertisements, specifically targeted advertisements. Digital advertisements are estimated to pass all other forms of advertisements in revenue by 2016 and continue to adapt to new technological platforms. The optimization of digital advertising is allowing for advertisements to only specifically target those of interest. These ads can be seen on Facebook, mobile applications and Google and are continuing to gain popularity amongst advertisers. Directly targeting consumers based on their past internet use and the information they share, advertisers can now be selective in advertising to those who will engage with their product. I will analyze the specific use on Facebook and the economic and technological conditions that have allowed for the target advertising on the website.
In order to analyze the increasing preference of digital advertisements amongst advertisers, I will look at the technological conditions that have allowed for targeted advertisements online and on digital devices. In addition I will consider the economic implications of having advertisements that target only those who fill specific criteria as consumers. In addition to the technological and economic conditions, I will also look at the increasing focus on the accusations against these digital advertisements and the invasion of privacy that occurs. For advertisers, the digital ads allow for advertisements that are reaching those direct targeted audiences. However, for audiences the increasing tracking of cookies and online searches to specifically target individuals is seen as an internet privacy concern.
