Managed Program vs. The Source?

[Mike]

Here's a question that I haven't seen addressed...

Would you rather work with a company through a managed program (ie. AzoogleAds, CJ, et al) or direct? Here is one example: I am a direct affiliate of Lunarpages and I am approved for their program through CJ.

The differences (money wise):

• Lunarpages affiliate program pays $52 USD per signup
• Through CJ, they pay $80, with bonuses

So, per dollar, I'm better off with CJ. BUT, about a year ago, I had a sale through CJ for Lunarpages and never got paid. At about the same time, I had a sale for them through my regular affiliate account and DID get paid.

Now, don't get hung up on my example, it's just one company.

What I am looking for is your experiences. Have you had better luck / conversions / pay / etc. going direct or through an Affiliate Management company?

 

[JP Sauve]

There is no single answer for your question. Many CJ programs ARE direct with the merchant, they use CJ for their affiliate program platform.

That said, from my experience it seems you can usually get a higher rate by dealing with a merchant through a CPA network. Networks like our typically generate large volumes and can get a higher CPA.