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What are Dynamic Creatives?

Dynamic creatives assemble or swap elements automatically to match users and placements. Learn how to pair DCO with catalog ads for scale and performance.
Brief Definition

Dynamic creatives automatically assemble or swap elements (images, headlines, CTAs) to match users and placements. They let you scale creative combinations without manually producing every variant. Done right, they surface patterns quickly—what hook works in Reels, which image wins in Feed. Done poorly, they create noise by testing too many lookalike elements at once.

Understanding Dynamic Creatives

Platforms mix and match approved components, searching for combinations that drive value. This differs from catalog ads (DPA), which serve product-specific assets from your feed. Combined, DCO and DPA deliver breadth (combinations) and depth (SKU-level relevance).

Keep your component library lean and labeled. Clear naming and tight variation prevent muddy signals and speed up learning.

Why dynamic creatives matter

Dynamic creatives matter because they stretch each asset further when production bandwidth is limited. They reveal which message and format pairings deserve hand-crafted follow-up. They also accelerate learning by testing more combinations with fewer manual edits.

  • Volume: Rapidly test more combinations with less production overhead.
  • Relevance: Tailor messaging to audience segments and placements.
  • Learning: Identify winning components (hooks, value props, images).

How dynamic creatives work

Dynamic creatives work by assembling permutations from a component set and measuring which combinations drive outcomes by audience and placement. Think in frameworks, not one-offs: supply distinct options per slot (hook, proof, CTA), map sizes to placements, and let the system iterate within guardrails. Strong differences between options create stronger signal. Product feeds can add price and review data to combinations for intent. Clear guardrails prevent off-brand mixes while still allowing learning.

Key Takeaways

  • Dynamic creatives mix and match creative elements (headlines, images, CTAs) automatically to find best-performing combinations.
  • Platforms test combinations in real time and optimize delivery to winning variants.
  • Works best with clear, distinct creative elements and sufficient budget to exit learning.
  • Pair dynamic creatives with catalog feeds for product-level personalization at scale.
Related Terms
Related Blogs
FAQs
What’s the difference between DCO and DPA?
DCO mixes creative components; DPA serves products from your feed. Use both together for scale and relevance.
Can dynamic creatives hurt learnings?
If you feed too many similar components, the signal gets muddy. Keep components distinct.
Do I need custom sizes?
Yes. Provide key aspect ratios so the best-performing combinations show cleanly across placements.
How many components should I start with?
Keep it tight: 3–5 headlines, 2–3 images/videos, 2 CTAs per concept. Expand only after you see clear winners.
How do I avoid muddy learnings?
Ensure each component tests a distinct idea. Don’t ship near-duplicates or change too many variables at once.

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