The Ogilvy Advertising Creative Brief
The classic DO Brief used by Ogilvy. A rigorous framework that provides creative teams with 'liberating constraints' to do their best work.
Author
AI Free Tools Editorial
Published
March 17, 2026
Updated
March 17, 2026
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Copy-ready template
This page is maintained by the AI Free Tools editorial team and updated when workflows, product details, or practical guidance change. When we recommend our own tools, the goal is to match the task the reader is already trying to complete.
**1. Why is this brief here? (The Business Problem)** [What keeps the client awake at night? What specific business measurable are we trying to move? e.g., We are losing market share to X competitor.] **2. Who do we need to influence? (Target Audience)** [Beyond demographics. How do they currently think, feel, and behave regarding this category or product?] **3. What do we need them to DO? (Desired Behavior)** [What specific, measurable action should they take after seeing this communication?] **4. What do we need to convey? (The Single-Minded Proposition)** [ONE sentence. The core essence of the message. If they remember only one thing, it must be this.] **5. Why should they believe it? (Reasons to Believe / RTB)** [The factual proof points that support the Single-Minded Proposition.] **6. Brand Voice & Tone** [How should the brand sound? e.g., Confident but not arrogant, helpful, slightly rebellious.] **7. Mandatories & Practicalities** * **Deliverables:** [e.g., 3x 15s video ads, 5x social statics] * **Budget:** [$X] * **Timeline:** [Dates for concepts, review, final delivery] * **Must Includes:** [e.g., Legal disclaimer, specific logo size]
💡 Pro Tip
David Ogilvy famously said, 'Give me the freedom of a tight brief.' The Single-Minded Proposition must truly be single-minded. If it uses 'and', it's usually two propositions.
📌 When to Use This Template
Ad Campaigns, Agency Client Work
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