The Role of IASH

IASH also exists to promote the real benefits of the online advertising network business model

IASH members wish to ensure that display ads placed via their networks do not appear on websites which could jeopardize advertisers' brands.

This Code provides a formal framework for best practice for IASH Members to follow when dealing with advertisers, agencies, networks and site owners. The purpose of the Code is to give those buying, selling or brokering internet advertising space a clear understanding of the types of inventory which can and cannot be used when fulfilling an ad insertion order

IASH was set up in 2005, by owners of ad networks that were concerned about ad misplacement on the internet, and to protect their businesses. A Code of Conduct was also established, and in order to comply with the Code a Sales House would need to hire a person to vet individual websites on their network. The Code forbids IASH members to sell inventory related to hate, indecency, bombs, guns, spyware and so on. It also sets out to provide transparency for the buyer. If buyers choose other types of inventory, such as sites that provide downloads, this must be ticked off on the insertion order.

The other key process is how the inventory that the buyer signs-off is delivered. The insertion order details have to be consistent with the campaign delivery reports, and all third party publishers must sign up to IASH T’s and C’s. Member Sales Houses are audited by ABCe twice yearly – in effect they select a set of insertion orders from a random month – to ensure transparency and stringency.

In four years IASH has come a long way. Its members care passionately about our industry and they work hard to ensure a safe environment for brand advertisers. IASH has since become the official Ad Network Council of the IAB.

If you have any questions regarding the role of IASH or are interested in becoming a member, please contact Julia Smith, IASH senior manager on 020 70506961 or julia@iabuk.net