How to setup new banner ads in Google Web Designer (GWD)?

Below is the parameters I usually use when I setup my HTML5 banner ads from the Create New Blank File menu. It’s the first step to start animating your banner ads.

Name: Give your banner ad a name.

Location: Where your file will be saved.

Environment: Where will your ad be published.
In most cases I select Google Ads (this also includes ads publishing through Adwords).

If it is a non Google Ad, eg that goes directly to publication or thirdparty publisher like Sizmek I would select Display & Video 360.

It’s best to check with your media agency or publisher for the correct environment if you are unsure.

It is possible to change the the environment after you have created your animation, however from experience it still can cause some issues. What you can do to fix this problem is by selecting all your layers from the timeline and copy it (Ctrl C). Followed by creating a new banner ad document with the correct environment. Then paste (Ctrl V) the animation layers onto the timeline. You should now have the same animation with the new environment.

Dimension: This is the size of your banner ad.

Responsive: I have this checked off.

Animation Mode: Select Advanced, this gives you a timeline and allows for more flexibility to manually set your key frames.

Version: Google Web Designer (February 2019) 5.0.3.0130
Type of application: HTML5 Animation

Google Web Designer (GWD) is an app that creates interactive HTML5-based design and motion graphics. Mainly use for animated banner ads and rich media content for desktop and mobile. You can download the latest free Google Web Designer (GWD) app here.