In this very unscientific test, I took Mashable’s “The 10 Most Innovative Viral Video Ads of 2009″ (which was totally subjective but very useful) and pulled out similar characteristics. Here is what I found:
- The highest correlation between them all is that they presented a new idea. 8 of the 10 showed something new or put a twist on the common.
- 7 out of 10 had ‘unexpectedness.’ In essence, with each I said “I didn’t expect that.” This is related to #1 above.
- 6 out of 10 had edgy or otherwise appropriate music with the video.
- 5 out of 10 were very simply created. No major production. No lighting, multiple cameras or otherwise. Just simple.
Think about that when creating your next… ANYTHING.





