An affiliate program is a partnership between a merchant (the advertiser), a network (the affiliate network provider) and an affiliate (the publisher). Before entering an affiliate program, you need to ask yourself exactly what benefits you expect to get out of it. Is it targeted inbound traffic and web presence ? Are you willing to add a Pay Per Click revenue to your business? Here is a little explanation:

The merchant:

• Brings your products and or services straight into the homes of your target audience
• Increases Google Page Rank and general web presence
• Dramatically increases your brand awareness
• Increases conversions and sales or leads
• Builds up your network for possible further partnership

The affiliate:

• Generates revenue
• Gives you added traffic information for possible future business opportunities
• The Advertising Association estimates that UK internet ad spend has risen from £408m in 2003, to £653m in 2004, to £1.1bn in 2005.

@Ineurodesign 2007