Past Event Highlights

Beyond the Follow: Understanding the Evolving Power of Creators

  • SOCIAL COUNCIL

At this event, the ARF Social Council presented research on how creators and influencers are reshaping the social media landscape and what these shifts mean for brands’ media, creative, and measurement decisions. The three speakers from Dynata, Kantar, and SmithGeiger moved from consumer behavior (who follows creators, where they spend time, and how trust translates to purchase) to marketer strategy (how creator work is being deployed and how to evaluate its effectiveness at scale) and finally to a category-specific deep dive in entertainment (what creator marketing does differently than traditional marketing for Gen Z and Millennials). Their presentations were followed by an engaging moderated discussion. All of the speakers and the moderator were either members of the Social Council or colleagues of Council members.

Member Only Access

Analytics & Forecasting 2026

  • Analytics & Forecasting

AI is transforming how organizations generate insights and forecast outcomes, but questions remain about reliability and the need for human oversight. On September 14-15 in NYC, industry and academic leaders gathered to discuss integrating AI into analytics workflows and maintaining transparency.

Member Only Access

Saturation Curves Are a Relic: How Large Causal Models Are Replacing Linear Projection with True Marketing Optimization

  • INSIGHTS STUDIOS

On September 10, DATA POEM introduced interconnected, non-linear optimization using Large Causal Models, which enable real-time, granular decision-making across all marketing levers and market scenarios. This session was designed for leaders who suspect their current optimization framework is leaving significant value on the table—and want to understand what the architectural alternative looks like in practice.

Member Only Access

Women in Analytics Mentorship Program 2026

  • WOMEN IN ANALYTICS

On August 5, the ARF Women in Analytics launched the 2026 Mentorship Program and discussed tips for growing and maintaining their connections. Attendees learned the methodology behind how their matches were determined and heard from past mentor-mentee pairs about their experiences and ideas for building a successful relationship.

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Global vs. Local Marketing

  • YOUNG PROS

On July 23, the ARF Young Pros discussed what it takes to build and execute successful global marketing campaigns and the strategic elements that drive effectiveness at scale, including cultural nuances, market-specific behaviors, and cross-market alignment while maintaining a cohesive global message. Plus, attendees had the chance to work together to create a quick mock campaign concept and then pitched their ideas back to the larger group.

Member Only Access

How to Validate Media Measurement Systems Built with AI

  • by Danielle Parra (Omnicom), Young Pros Officer
  • CROSS-PLATFORM MEASUREMENT COUNCIL

AI can accelerate campaign measurement, but how do you know the results are reliable? On July 15, the ARF Cross-Platform Measurement Council led an exploration of validating AI-powered measurement models and systems. Industry practitioners shared validation approaches, frameworks, and tools that work based on real case studies. Plus, attendees had the opportunity to ask questions in a Q&A.

Member Only Access