The development of paper and the printing press made billposting possible in Europe after about 1500 AC. Lithography, a printing method developed in the 19th century, expanded the creative possibilities of advertising design. Posting "bills" on wooden boards in the late 19th century led to the birth of the term "billboard."

Nowadays, the out-of-home category includes not only the traditional billboard, but also the giant billboard, mobiles, tri-visions, panels, bus stops, advertising furniture, stadium advertising and many other forms.

• Outdoor advertising is cost-effective and has great impact.
• Outdoor advertising creates continuity of a brand or message
• Outdoor advertising is the only type of media that has constant exposure. Billboards are viewed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by thousands of people.
• Outdoor advertising works continually day and night.
• Outdoor advertising cannot be turned off, turned over or ignored.
• Billboards allow the advertiser to reach more people faster and easier than any other type of media.
• Outdoor advertising has a lower cost per thousand (CPM) than any other type of advertising.
• Outdoor advertising eliminates waste circulation by concentrating the advertised message in the target market area.