What are affiliate networks? Critical things to look for, before you choose one.

Affiliate networks offer a platform where you(a merchant) can offer your affiliate program to the affiliates. The main job of the networks is to

• Attract and maintain a pool of good affiliates.
• Track clicks & sales produced by the affiliates.
• Make payment to the affiliates.

For a new merchant who wants to start an affiliate program, there are two options

• Join a network.
• Start an in-house affiliate program by installing the affiliate software on your own server.

If you do NOT have an established brand (in many cases even established brands prefer networks) name then it is better to choose a network rather than an in-house program.

Joining a network creates instant trust, among affiliates, in your program. Affiliates would join your program with an open mind.

You do not have to worry about paying affiliates.

Networks would help bring your program in front of 1000’s of affiliates and this would give instant boost to your program.

Though, an in-house affiliate program would give you better control and huge savings, it is advisable, for new merchants, to join a network.

While choosing a network you should evaluate it on following parameters.

• Cost of initial set up and ongoing monthly costs.
• Other charges like email sending charges, data-feed setting up & usage charges, etc.
• Percentage of amount charged per sale.
• Number of programs that have similar product as that of yours and their performance. This will help you find that whether that network has affiliates catering to your niche.
• Quality & quantity of affiliates it has.
• Clean network: Does the network work with sites that steal other affiliates commission. This will have a long-term effect.
• Types of reports it generates.
• Flexibility it provides to communicate with your affiliates.
• Support it provides. This is especially helpful when you are a setting up your affiliate program.

Though, there are certain things that can’t be identified without using the network, you can either take the help of an experienced affiliate manager or can take your decision based on the obvious factors such as cost etc.

Our section on affiliate networks review will definitely help you in choosing the right one.




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