Darren Contardo's Netrepreneur

Affiliate programs still top revenue producers

It's true. Affiliate marketing is still one of the best way to generate some incremental revenue. PLUS, you get the benefits of an enhanced SEO rankings because of all the inbound links, greater branding that's only pay-for-performance, and a trackable revenue source. Some of the best programs out there are:

linkshare

commission junction

clickbank

According to Canadian Tire, over 15% of their revenue comes from Affiliate Programs. I've also heard of some companies receiving over 40% of their revenue from their affiliates. A good rule of thumb is to offer between 5-15% commission. Obviously, the better commissions will produce more potential affiliate prospects. But, word to the wise, make sure you can review all websites prior to accepting their affiliate status. There's nothing worse than having a porn site linking to you to damage your brand.

Customer Motivation Online Designing an

Customer Motivation Online Designing an online store is really all about focusing on customer goals. Usability, scnenario analysis, conversion, etc. These are all terms used for the science of getting a customer to the ultimate goal of purchasing your product or service. So let's define the customer experience online and how to make it a bit more structured:

The customer experience is the sum of the tasks and objectives carried out on the site. The motivation is temporary (usually 72 hours) and really compels the customer to carry out the tasks to reach their objective or goal.

Let's take a look at an example:
Customer has a specific motivation (i.e. to become more attractive)

Task 1: Search for cool shirts
Task 2: Sort by customer rating
Goal 1: Find popular product

Task 3: Read review and compare prices
Goal 2: Buy the most flattering shirt for them

Buy understanding customer goals with your website, you can prioritize, organize, and truely identify content that will help your customers achieve their goals and satisfy their motivation.

If you want a good example of a Site that does exact thing, go to futureshop.ca (Canadian electronics retailer).