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LearningReference

OOH Media Formats

  • Free
  • Beginner
  • OAAA

Learn the difference between bulletins, posters, digital billboards and other OOH formats before comparing inventory.

Opens on OAAA's website in a new tab.

Time to complete
~15–25 min
Level
Beginner
Certificate
No

Overview

OAAA’s Media Formats reference is a practical map of the major out-of-home formats an advertiser will encounter when planning a campaign. It covers standard roadside units such as bulletins and posters alongside digital versions and other OOH environments. Individual format pages explain how a format is typically used, where it is available, how it is commonly purchased and, in some cases, production specifications. That makes the resource particularly valuable before an RFP or inventory review: instead of treating every screen or billboard as equivalent, buyers can understand why a large roadside bulletin, a poster network and a digital unit solve different problems. It is also a useful reference when media-owner proposals use format names without explaining what they mean.

What You'll Learn

  • Recognize the major standard OOH formats
  • Understand how format size and environment affect the role of a placement
  • Distinguish static and digital versions of common OOH units
  • Interpret media-owner proposals that use industry format names
  • Match formats to broad campaign goals such as impact, coverage or local targeting
  • Identify where production requirements may differ by format

Highlights

  • Fast reference rather than a long course
  • Individual pages include buying and production details for several formats
  • Useful when comparing proposals from multiple media owners
  • Helps prevent apples-to-oranges comparisons between very different OOH units

Who It's For

Best for

  • First-time billboard buyers
  • Media planners comparing mixed-format proposals
  • Creative teams preparing assets for several OOH environments
  • Advertisers trying to understand OOH terminology

Before you start

  • No OOH experience required
  • Useful alongside a live media plan or inventory proposal

Access

Cost
Free
Format
Reference
Time to complete
~15–25 min
Certificate
No
Hands-on
Reference-based

Free to access

OAAA~15–25 min

Open at OAAABrowse all learning resources

Topics Covered

  • Formats
  • Planning
  • Buying

FAQ

Questions about this resource

5 questions

What does the OOH Media Formats resource cover?

It introduces major printed and digital out-of-home formats and links to more detailed pages for individual format types.

Is it free?

Yes. The reference is publicly accessible on OAAA’s website.

Is this only about billboards?

No. Billboards are included, but OOH also covers other roadside, street-level, transit and place-based formats.

Why does format matter when buying OOH?

Format affects viewing distance, dwell time, creative design, buying method, production requirements and the role a placement can play in the overall plan.

Is it useful for creative teams?

Yes. Format knowledge helps designers understand viewing context and avoid treating a roadside bulletin like a digital display ad.

Sources

Sources & Methodology

2 sources

  1. OAAA - industry associationMedia Formatsoaaa.org (opens in a new tab)
  2. OAAA - industry associationDigital Billboardsoaaa.org (opens in a new tab)

Access, course content and certification requirements are set by the resource provider. Last updated .

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