NB: Affiliates, beware the one-day cookie monster!
Just a quick note to explain something very important to all our Affiliates.
I think that a number of our Affiliates are unaware of how we and other Networks track sales/leads and because of this they are tempted to run campaigns on other Networks for as little as 1% more in commission.
We track all referrals by means of cookies. A cookie is a small text file that is placed on the users PC when a banner/link is clicked. This cookie identifies the Affiliate so that when the action required (fill in form, make sale etc.) is performed we can allocate the sale/lead to that particular Affiliate.
All cookies have a validity period and after that they expire (read: disappear). For interest sake, in general, the validity period of all OfferForge campaign cookies is 999 days. So for 999 days (if the user still has the cookie on their PC) you will be given credit for the sale/lead.
A good example of this would be Netflorist. Other programs and networks may offer more on their commission per sale, but the cookie may only be valid for 1 day! So if the visitor doesn’t buy the product straight away, you loose that sale! Eina.
When comparing programs running on other Networks ensure you compare not only the payout percentage but also the cookie length. You know that we will always have your best interest at heart and I believe that you have grown to trust that OfferForge will always provide you with the best long term returns.
Why?
Quite simply, because we earn, when you earn. It is in our interest to get the best deal for you!
February 15th, 2007 at 6:39 am
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April 2nd, 2007 at 5:39 pm
Wait, I thought the LinkShare network uses script-based tracking technology to track referrals. Actually I know they do. (Obviously everyone uses cookies to track return days). But it is inaccurate to say that they all networks use cookie or pixels for tracking referrals!
April 16th, 2007 at 6:39 am
Hello Accurateinfo
Thanks for the comment. you are right of course, CJ, Linkshare and many other networks offer various integration methods, from API to script based.
This article was referring specifically to DirectTrack based networks and South African Ad networks in particular.
We did not want to name names
but I see it’s caused some confusion by not doing so.
Look forward to any other comments / contributions you may have!
Jon