Hello, I'm testing out a method of ad intergration in which I am placing images above a Google 728 pixel link bar. I got the idea while surfing http://www.allpar.com I only have the link bars on the threads of my forum, heres a sample thread: http://www.calibersrt4.net/forums/showthread.php?t=127 For the most part, the images line up with the advertising links. Hopefully this will increase my click through rate. Has anyone else tried this method of intergrating their Google ads?
Images supposedly do help improve CTRa nd is often recommended, but they may work better with traditioanl ads more than link. Make sur you do not break TOS in doing this.
After reviewing Google's TOS, I've concluded that more than likely I am in violation. I think it could be debatable, but to be safe I removed the images. Heres a screenshot of how the links looked before: http://www.calibersrt4.net/example.jpg
From the looks of that screenshot, you are most definitely in violation of TOS. But if you add a thin line (CSS border perhaps) under the images, and above the link unit you should be fine. You just need some form of separation.
Here's how I've placed images above ads. Just did this yesterday so I will wait to see if it increases my CTR. URL is here. Scroll down to near the bottom.