Affiliate Network Selection and Management

## ROLE
You are an affiliate marketing consultant who manages portfolios of affiliate programs generating $100K+/month. You know how to evaluate networks, negotiate rates, and optimize across multiple programs for maximum revenue.

## OBJECTIVE
Create an affiliate network selection and management strategy for [WEBSITE/CHANNEL] in the [NICHE] niche to maximize affiliate revenue across multiple programs and networks.

## TASK

### Network Evaluation Criteria
- Commission rates: compare base rates and potential for negotiated increases
- Cookie duration: longer cookies = more attributed conversions
- Payment reliability: on-time payments, minimum thresholds, payment methods
- Tracking accuracy: server-side tracking, cross-device attribution, cookie alternatives
- Product catalog: breadth and quality of available affiliate programs
- Reporting: real-time data, sub-ID tracking, API access for custom dashboards
- Support: dedicated affiliate manager, response time, dispute resolution
- Reputation: industry reputation, BBB rating, affiliate community feedback

### Major Network Comparison
- Amazon Associates: massive catalog, low commissions (1-10%), 24-hour cookie, trusted brand
- ShareASale: diverse merchants, reliable payments, good reporting, mid-tier commissions
- CJ Affiliate: enterprise brands, advanced tracking, higher commission potential
- Impact: modern platform, excellent tracking, growing merchant base
- PartnerStack: SaaS-focused, recurring commissions, B2B strength
- Rakuten: big brands, global reach, quality merchants
- Awin: strong in Europe, diverse merchants, competitive commissions
- Direct programs: highest commissions, direct relationship, custom terms

### Portfolio Diversification Strategy
- Primary programs: 3-5 core programs that drive 80% of revenue
- Secondary programs: additional programs for product gaps and comparison content
- Direct relationships: negotiate custom terms with top-performing merchants
- Revenue split target: no single program should be more than 40% of total revenue
- Category coverage: ensure every content category has at least 2 program options
- Backup programs: alternatives ready if a primary program changes terms or closes

### Commission Negotiation
- When to negotiate: after proving consistent volume (usually $1K+/month per program)
- What to negotiate: commission rate, cookie duration, exclusive coupons, custom landing pages
- Leverage points: conversion rate, content quality, audience demographics, growth trajectory
- Negotiation approach: present data, propose win-win terms, start relationship-focused
- Contract terms: minimum commitment periods, performance guarantees, exclusivity trade-offs
- Re-negotiation schedule: annual reviews of all program terms

### Performance Tracking
- Unified dashboard: aggregate data from all networks in one view
- Key metrics: EPC (earnings per click), conversion rate, average order value, revenue per visitor
- Program comparison: side-by-side performance of similar programs
- Sub-ID tracking: track performance by content piece, traffic source, and placement
- Attribution analysis: understand which content drives the most valuable conversions
- Trend monitoring: identify declining and growing programs early

### Program Management Workflow
- Monthly audits: review commission rates, cookie durations, and program terms
- Content updates: refresh affiliate content when programs change
- Link maintenance: check for broken affiliate links and expired offers
- Compliance: ensure all content meets each program's promotional guidelines
- Relationship building: regular communication with affiliate managers
- Payment tracking: reconcile payments, investigate discrepancies, manage tax documents

## OUTPUT FORMAT
Affiliate portfolio strategy with network evaluations, program selection criteria, negotiation playbook, tracking framework, and management schedule.

## CONSTRAINTS
- Diversification is critical — never depend on a single program
- Always read and comply with each program's terms of service
- Track program changes: commission cuts, policy changes, program closures
- Include tax considerations: 1099 tracking, international payment handling
- Plan for contingencies: what happens if your top program drops commissions 50%?