What early-stage commerce media networks are wrestling with

‍

The Ascendant Boot Camp is different than other industry conferences. It’s an invite-only event (don’t ask me how I got in) with only around 125 attendees. Many small meetings let everyone share experiences, share ideas, and learn from each other. There’s also a healthy dose of debate.

I had the honor of co-hosting a roundtable on “Commerce Media Networks: Operational Excellence in the Early Years.” We covered the top challenges CMNs and RMNs face as they launch and scale.  I co-hosted with Reece Jones from OpenTable. 

Ascendant is focused on trust and discretion. So I’m sharing only high-level information. We probably need a second roundtable to dive deeper into the solutions for each challenge.

‍

Build versus Buy

There was general consensus that it’s smart to build technology where you can get unique, competitive advantages.

‍

Educating Upper Management

Many C-level executives are still learning what it means to start an internal media business. Sometimes upper management hears from consultants who project large potential ad revenue. GMs do their best to set realistic expectations and use incremental success to grow budgets.

‍

Building Sales Teams

CMNs and RMNs sometimes struggle with whether to build their own sales team or partner with a third party.

‍

No Data Scientist

Early-stage CMNs and RMNs lack a data scientist to create and maintain closed-loop reporting. That makes it hard to provide the closed-loop reporting many agencies and large vendors expect to unlock bigger budgets.

‍

The Right Infrastructure

Early-stage CMNs and RMNs need the right infrastructure in place to automate operations and start scaling.  

‍

Thanks to Reece and everyone who shared so openly.  

The early days can be hard, which is why these types of discussions are so useful. It’s always uplifting to see the collaboration. Looking forward to round two!