• by Gavin O'Malley , Staff Writer @mp_gavin, June 8, 2011

Rich Gagnon, Chief Media Officer, DRAFTFCB, has a problem with today’s video ad marketplace. “There’s too much complexity,” he said on an afternoon panel, adding something about “those algorithms,” before trailing off. Oh, “There’s also a lot of risk about where you’re ad is placed,” Gagnon added. “No one wants to be seen with something that is just so off-brand.” Otherwise, “From a planning perspective, it’s a great time,” Gagnon said of the broader marketplace. “There’s so much opportunity.”

By the way, what’s the best defense against poorly placed ads? Stick with top tier publishers, said Steve Minichini, President of Interactive Marketing at TargetCast. “You know if you’re running your video on CNN, you can be pretty confident.” Indeed, pick five or six premium partners, seconded Amir Ashkenazi, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, Adap.tv.

Gagnon's response? Meh. "There's still risk."