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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryBrand & Performance MarketingMedia Buying

Brand & Performance Marketing

Media Buying

Purchasing ad space and time, directly or programmatically.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

Media buying is purchasing advertising space and time, either directly from publishers and broadcasters or programmatically through automated platforms. Buyers negotiate rates, secure placements, and manage delivery against the media plan. Effective buying aims to reach the intended audience at the best possible cost while protecting brand safety.