This guide explains how to use CSV files to create multiple ad variations efficiently in The Brief.
You can upload CSV files to The Brief via the Feed section. Using CSV files allows you to generate numerous ad variations, significantly reducing the time spent on individual ad designs. Your CSV file can store various product details such as product name, image URL, headline, body text, call to action (CTA), target URL, and more.
For optimal data visualization and management, we recommend using spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.
Before uploading or sourcing your CSV to The Brief, certain requirements must be met, as detailed below.
CSV Upload Requirements
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Include Column Headers: The first row of your CSV file must contain column headers.
- These headers link your content categories (e.g., "Product Name," "Image," "Headline") to the corresponding elements in your design.
- Examples of data you can include: Product Name, Image, Headline, Body Text, CTA, Target URL.
- List Each Item or Product on Its Own Row: Each subsequent row in your CSV should describe a unique variation of the item you wish to feature in your design.
- Choose Images of the Same Size and Orientation: If your ad variations include images, ensure they are all the same size and orientation. Additionally, the main objects within these images should be positioned consistently.
- Use a Secure Source for Your Image Files: Your image files must be served from an SSL-protected source. You can verify this by checking if the image URL begins with HTTPS:// instead of HTTP://
Below is a list of free image-hosting websites where you can upload your photos. Once uploaded, use the provided Image URL from the website in your CSV file.
Note: Avoid using personal cloud storage accounts like Google Drive or Dropbox for image hosting, as they may not be publicly accessible or SSL-protected.
Check the File Format and Encoding: Save your spreadsheet in Comma Separated Value (CSV) format with a UTF-8 Unicode Text encoding.
Maximum File Size: The maximum accepted file size for direct upload is 2MB. However, you can bypass this limitation by serving the CSV via a URL, which is the recommended method for larger files.
CSV Example
We've prepared a few CSV examples that you can download from the Try Sample section
Image File Size Recommendations
- General Best Practice: For faster loading, we recommend using images with a file size of less than 5MB.
- Ad Serving: When using Ad Serving to deliver your ad variations, the recommended image file size is under 500KB to ensure your ads load as quickly as possible for viewers.
Working with Google Sheets for Your Feed Content
If you're using Google Sheets for your feed content, there are two primary methods to obtain your CSV file for creating ad variations:
Export the CSV to Your Local Storage
- Go to File in your Google Sheet.
- Select Download.
- Choose Comma-separated values (.csv).
- The CSV file will be downloaded to your local computer storage.
Obtain a URL for your CSV (Recommended)
This option is highly recommended when importing a CSV into The Brief, as it offers the most versatility and allows you to sync your feed directly from the app.
- Go to File in your Google Sheet.
- Select Share.
- Choose Publish to web.
- From the dropdown, set your spreadsheet as Comma-separated value (.csv).
- Click on Publish.
- Copy the generated link. This link can then be pasted into The Brief when needed to import your data.