View Full Version : Affiliating links.
More & more links are being posted without affiliate codes (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) being added. The forums rely on people using the links to provide its income which pays the server costs - if these costs aren't met then the forums won't survive. The affiliate income has dropped month after month now to a very poor level. PLEASE use the links wherever possible and if you don't know how to link then EMAIL US (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/contactus.html) and we will do it for you! We would all rather have cluttered inboxes if it means a better income for the forums!
Thanks!
magicrat
08-04-2004, 15:24
Trekker, have the forums considered affiliating to CDJungle (http://www.cdjungle.com). I dont know what the usual affiliate rate is, but they pay 4%. They're prices are very keen, cheaper than CDWow, so it may generate a decent income.
Sorry if this is slightly off topic. :)
Originally posted by magicrat
Trekker, have the forums considered affiliating to CDJungle (http://www.cdjungle.com). I dont know what the usual affiliate rate is, but they pay 4%. They're prices are very keen, cheaper than CDWow, so it may generate a decent income.
Sorry if this is slightly off topic. :)
Its not really off-topic, suggestions for new affiliates are always welcome and will be considered on a one by one basis.
Recently we have added a few new affilaites, some of which get a lot of mention here (e.g. DVD Soon (http://www.dvdsoon.com/index.xml?partnerid=10040) & Bargain Crazy (http://www.qksrv.net/click-582776-6272926) ) but we are always open to new suggestions.
TimJBart
08-04-2004, 15:28
would it be against any rules to have a thread with all the e-retailers and their affiliate links?
Originally posted by TimJBart
would it be against any rules to have a thread with all the e-retailers and their affiliate links?
http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997
:D I knew people didn't read stickies!
TimJBart
08-04-2004, 15:33
nope, my eyes automatically phase them out....how strange!
kryten, do play.com have an affiliation scheme? they seem to get a lot of mentions on here, also what about Dell, Dixons etc? (bargain forum stalwarts :))
Originally posted by marteee
kryten, do play.com have an affiliation scheme? they seem to get a lot of mentions on here, also what about Dell, Dixons etc? (bargain forum stalwarts :))
Play I have to work on. We have been turned down once already I believe. No chance of Dell as a few selfish individuals wrecked any chance of an affiliate with them I would have thought. We used to have a Dixons affiliate link but it was dropped by them through lack of use :(
Please do keep the suggestions coming though, I will consider all of them :)
Originally posted by marteee
kryten, do play.com have an affiliation scheme? they seem to get a lot of mentions on here, also what about Dell, Dixons etc? (bargain forum stalwarts :))
Play don't seem to from their site but I remember something about them maybe doing one from the past and turning us down. Maybe worth a mail to their marketing department (hint, hint Trekker ;) ). As for Dell and Dixons, yes they do, we just need to subscribe, but as Dell Outlet posts are banned (and I'm not even sure if they are covered in the affiliate scheme?) not sure if it would bring much in. Then again would only need a few "normal" orders to get a reasonable return I guess...
EDIT: Trekker just echoed what I wrote :D
Surely it wouldn't be too difficult to modify vBulletin to automatically set the affiliate link when a particular site was posted ?
Originally posted by AWaite
Surely it wouldn't be too difficult to modify vBulletin to automatically set the affiliate link when a particular site was posted ?
If we had the spare server capacity it would be easy, but it would be at least as server intensive as the autocensor that we had to stop using. Given the major cost of the required hardware upgrade it would never be worth it.
Originally posted by Trekker
If we had the spare server capacity it would be easy, but it would be at least as server intensive as the autocensor that we had to stop using. Given the major cost of the required hardware upgrade it would never be worth it.
Exactly, it is an identical method to the auto-censor and that kills the server. If you have a powerful enough server and huge resources it is possible, but as said above, not really worth considering with the current server setup.
I have seen this running on other sites (non vBulletin sites) and its effective (altough people still get around it with mis-spellings etc). But the site I have seen it on probably runs on some pressty impressive servers as they usually have about 2k+ users browsing at the same time!
agent007
08-04-2004, 16:39
Have you considered doing it *******-style, by using a posting form with a specific place to submit the URL and a drop-down list for selecting the affiliated retailer. The system is automatic but presumably less server-intensive than an autocensor.
Or, the modification of the links could be done on the client, using JavaScript, before being submitted to the server ?
www.neogames.co.uk do an affiliate program. their prices are pretty good. you should contact them.
Tam
anyway the forum can automagically insert affiliate code where applicable?
regards,
greg
ralph wiggum
08-04-2004, 18:30
Originally posted by Kryten
http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997
:D I knew people didn't read stickies!
I have to admit, up until about a week ago i had never even seen that thread :o
Originally posted by gregh
anyway the forum can automagically insert affiliate code where applicable?
regards,
greg
:brickwall :brickwall :brickwall
Did you read ANY of the thread? It has been discussed, in length, 3 whole replies up - we cannot do it with the current hardware and cannot afford the hardware to put this in place.
Originally posted by ralph wiggum
I have to admit, up until about a week ago i had never even seen that thread :o
Originally posted by Trekker
:brickwall :brickwall :brickwall
Did you read ANY of the thread? It has been discussed, in length, 3 whole replies up - we cannot do it with the current hardware and cannot afford the hardware to put this in place.
:brickwall :oh-hum: :| Maybe we need braille on the forums ;)
j to tha l-o
08-04-2004, 18:38
Originally posted by Trekker
:brickwall :brickwall :brickwall
Did you read ANY of the thread? It has been discussed, in length, 3 whole replies up - we cannot do it with the current hardware and cannot afford the hardware to put this in place.
What kind of hardware is this site running on? Dual Xeon p4 2ghz? I believe you already co-located to America to take advantage of far cheaper bandwidth? You can get some great rental deals out there now which includes real impressive hardware in the price that should support the functionality you need.
You could also look into upgrading to vbulletin 3 ASAP as Jelsoft has made some serious improvements in performance in the new version. We run a number of large installations for corporate customers and found the performance improvements in the new software dramatic to say the least. The new code went gold a few weeks ago.
Originally posted by j to tha l-o
What kind of hardware is this site running on? Dual Xeon p4 2ghz? I believe you already co-located to America to take advantage of far cheaper bandwidth? You can get some great rental deals out there now which includes real impressive hardware in the price that should support the functionality you need.
You could also look into upgrading to vbulletin 3 ASAP as Jelsoft has made some serious improvements in performance in the new version. We run a number of large installations for corporate customers and found the performance improvements in the new software dramatic to say the least. The new code went gold a few weeks ago.
Both of the above are true but both still require funding and both require a lot of planning. As for the second one, isn't it more memory intensive though? We would probably still need a server upgrade before implementing it. There is a thread here (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=280025) already discussing it.
Originally posted by j to tha l-o
What kind of hardware is this site running on? Dual Xeon p4 2ghz? I believe you already co-located to America to take advantage of far cheaper bandwidth? You can get some great rental deals out there now which includes real impressive hardware in the price that should support the functionality you need.
You could also look into upgrading to vbulletin 3 ASAP as Jelsoft has made some serious improvements in performance in the new version. We run a number of large installations for corporate customers and found the performance improvements in the new software dramatic to say the least. The new code went gold a few weeks ago.
We don't have ANY money at the moment. Upgrades are out of the question. Once we get people used to the idea that they need to use the affiliate links we have then we may be able to consider upgrading the site. At the moment though it is a big no no.
j to tha l-o
08-04-2004, 18:49
Are you co-locating your own hardware then? Pretty much our experience shows it makes more financial sense to rent servers that come included with a ton of bandwidth than pay for your own equipment. That way you can just move from one rented server to the other when you need a higher spec.... with a large chunk of bandwidth alreayd included. (you also don't have to pay when hardware fails)
If your hardware really is looking pretty dated then it might be worth looking into server rental. You'll probably find the costs are comparable to what you pay already for bandwidth. For example a top of the line box (Intel Dual Xeon 2.8ghz) with 2000gb monthly bandwidth and at least 2gb ram sets us back roughly $499 a month.
We are renting and to change packages costs money and takes time to do (our databases are huge!) - last time the site was closed for nearly a week because of a server move. That aside though this isn't the place to be discussing the hardware we use or its cost. We have a far more pressing problem to deal with at the moment. The lack of income because of peoples failure to use the correct links. :)
The fact that I just got the
vBulletin Message
The server is too busy at the moment. Please try again later. message when trying to view this thread says something about our need to upgrade anyway.
j to tha l-o
08-04-2004, 18:54
Originally posted by Kryten
Both of the above are true but both still require funding and both require a lot of planning. As for the second one, isn't it more memory intensive though? We would probably still need a server upgrade before implementing it. There is a thread here (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=280025) already discussing it.
I'd estimate a site this size would need around 2gb ram to run satisfactorily based on the volumes of traffic I see and our own experiences. We've not needed to upgrade the memory in our machines since migrating some pretty large vbulletin sites to the new software. So if you're running close to that amount of mem. already I think you'd be safe to upgrade.
j to tha l-o
08-04-2004, 18:56
Originally posted by Trekker
We are renting and to change packages costs money and takes time to do (our databases are huge!) - last time the site was closed for nearly a week because of a server move. That aside though this isn't the place to be discussing the hardware we use or its cost. We have a far more pressing problem to deal with at the moment. The lack of income because of peoples failure to use the correct links. :)
The fact that I just got the
message when trying to view this thread says something about our need to upgrade anyway.
Yeah there's usually a setup fee that is at least equal to the first months rental. Didn't mean to butt in on your thread with my drivel. :)
AFFILIATE THOSE LINKS PEOPLE, AFFILIATE LINKS!
Originally posted by j to tha l-o
AFFILIATE THOSE LINKS PEOPLE, AFFILIATE LINKS!
For all those who haven't read the sticky (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) its just been updated. :)
Playasia may be one to work on for an affiliate link.
Originally posted by Herbal
Do Argos have one?
http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997
:brickwall :brickwall :brickwall :brickwall :brickwall
Does the DVD forums get money just for clicking on the links or do you gotta buy stuff when clicking on them?
Tam
ralph wiggum
08-04-2004, 20:35
Originally posted by Kryten
http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997
:brickwall :brickwall :brickwall :brickwall :brickwall
:lol: You're not getting through to us mate. You'll have to SHOUT! :lol:
Originally posted by tam9
Does the DVD forums get money just for clicking on the links or do you gotta buy stuff when clicking on them?
Tam
Buy stuff
Originally posted by tam9
Does the DVD forums get money just for clicking on the links or do you gotta buy stuff when clicking on them?
The forums get money when you guys make a purchase through our affiliated links.
Originally posted by Trekker
:brickwall :brickwall :brickwall
Did you read ANY of the thread? It has been discussed, in length, 3 whole replies up - we cannot do it with the current hardware and cannot afford the hardware to put this in place.
Weird, I could swear those replies werent there when I posted my reply :confused: :searchme: :suspect:
If possible why not make the Bargain Forum section like the ******* site (www.*******.com) so you can choose from a list and it automaticaly puts the referal link in, looking at the affilate page some of them need a lot of messing around which puts people off doing it.
Bump!
http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/bttt.gif
agent007
09-04-2004, 09:27
I said that deanos.
Also, have the forums applied to kelkoo? They pay for click-thru's after price searches, which people around here probably do quite a lot of, so a kelkoo button in the header might do well...
SpankySpanky
09-04-2004, 10:00
I reckon the Bargain Crazy affiliate link could be a bit of a lifesaver for the Forums! Have they only just started accepting affiliates cos I was saying you should have gone down this route a couple of years (and bans!) ago.....
SS
PS No chance of getting people to donate to an upgrade? Nochex? Paypal? I'm willing to send summat....
magicrat
09-04-2004, 10:40
Originally posted by SpankySpanky
I reckon the Bargain Crazy affiliate link could be a bit of a lifesaver for the Forums! Have they only just started accepting affiliates cos I was saying you should have gone down this route a couple of years (and bans!) ago.....
They already have, Kryten put a link to it on the 1st page.
Can all the links be placed on the drop down list at the top of the page, makes it much easier to find them.
SpankySpanky
09-04-2004, 10:46
Originally posted by magicrat
They already have, Kryten put a link to it on the 1st page.
Yep, I probably didn't word that very well. What I meant was that the recent affiliate agreement with BC should bring in a decent amount of income for the Forums.
SS
magicrat
09-04-2004, 10:59
Originally posted by SpankySpanky
Yep, I probably didn't word that very well. What I meant was that the recent affiliate agreement with BC should bring in a decent amount of income for the Forums.
SS
Re-reading it, I see what you meant. :o :)
I will readily admit that I didn't know that the affiliate sticky existed but that's because I use all the drop down links at the top of the screen, why haven't they been updated? If it's not in there I assume there is no link.
It's a hell of a lot more obvious to people to select them from any of the forums than to come to the bargain forum and search for an affiliate link thread.
Originally posted by magicrat
Can all the links be placed on the drop down list at the top of the page, makes it much easier to find them.
I don't really think that is an option because it would make the drop down lists especially the DVD one way to big. An easy solution would be for people to save this thread (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) in their favourites.
it may make them big but surely that's an acceptable issue, at the end of the day you want this forum to pull in as much money as possible and to do that you need to make it as easy as possible for all concerned. That's how the internet works, you know that, everyones lazy, not to mention some people often don't see stickies - FACT :)
I'm sure there are many of us who will change our bookmarks to reflect the links in the affiliate thread, myself included, but it's not going to be the majority, I see it as money that's just being thrown away.
Why not try changing the links at the top and see how it goes, if everyone pans it and it brings in no extra cash then fine, i'll get me coat but surely it's worth a go?
All my shopping bookmarks include forums affiliate links. I wasn't aware of the dvdsoon one though! I'll add that.
Originally posted by target
All my shopping bookmarks include forums affiliate links. I wasn't aware of the dvdsoon one though! I'll add that.
And you still type them and then have to go back and use the affilaite link once you remember I bet :| :D
DVD-Soon was added recently, people should really read the sticky which has an update date in the title :)
robbiez666
09-04-2004, 12:24
dvdpacific and dddhouse tend to get a lot of business from here. Also Koreandvd. maybe they can be picked up?
Originally posted by robbiez666
dvdpacific and dddhouse tend to get a lot of business from here. Also Koreandvd. maybe they can be picked up?
I searched DVD Pacific's site and could not see anything about affilaite links, may be worth a mail to their marketing department though. We can look into the other two...
robbiez666
09-04-2004, 12:50
also sudden brainwave. when affiliates have sales coming up why don't you get info from them in advance and start a thread in bargain forum with affil link on it? any duplicates can be closed and steered to that thread?
SpankySpanky
09-04-2004, 12:55
Now, that's a cracking idea!!
SS
Originally posted by robbiez666
also sudden brainwave. when affiliates have sales coming up why don't you get info from them in advance and start a thread in bargain forum with affil link on it? any duplicates can be closed and steered to that thread?
Great idea, but how are we supposed to know these things? Most affiliate links are done through a thrid party (e.g TradeDoubler) and for us to get "Exclusive" info on an upcoming sale is not likely to happen IMO. It would be great if it could happen (as it does from some of our sponsors :thumbs: ), just a little unlikely I'm afraid.
WH Smiths?
http://www.whsmith.co.uk/whs/go.asp?pagedef=/partner/migration1.htm
They get the odd bargain mentioned around here.
Game
http://shop.game.net/affiliates/
And a little off topic... The AA?
http://www.theaa.com/businessservices/affiliates.html
I bet a fair few people buy cover online. Whether or not they'll think to use a forums affiliate link or not is another matter...
PC World
no link as its session based
http://www.newitts.com at least used to get metioned on here quite a lot with their dailly offers.
robbiez666
09-04-2004, 13:36
Originally posted by Kryten
Great idea, but how are we supposed to know these things? Most affiliate links are done through a thrid party (e.g TradeDoubler) and for us to get "Exclusive" info on an upcoming sale is not likely to happen IMO. It would be great if it could happen (as it does from some of our sponsors :thumbs: ), just a little unlikely I'm afraid.
since it would be mutualy beneficial, I'm sure they would be prepared to advise you when they are having a new sale. They may not want to divulge whats in it but as long as you know when its starting thats all the info you need.
I think you'll find most companies would be very eagre to divulge specifics in advance as its going to boost their profits.
Originally posted by target
WH Smiths?
http://www.whsmith.co.uk/whs/go.asp?pagedef=/partner/migration1.htm
They get the odd bargain mentioned around here.
Game
http://shop.game.net/affiliates/
PC World
no link as its session based
We signed up for these three yesterday and are just waiting on official confirmation from tradedoubler before adding the affiliate links to the sticky thread.
Originally posted by robbiez666
since it would be mutualy beneficial, I'm sure they would be prepared to advise you when they are having a new sale. They may not want to divulge whats in it but as long as you know when its starting thats all the info you need.
I think you'll find most companies would be very eagre to divulge specifics in advance as its going to boost their profits.
Ok, I guess we will discuss this behind the scenes and see if we think its viable or possible.
target: As Alan said, we already signed up for those yesterday (except AA). Expect a load more affilates coming soon... :thumbs:
Originally posted by AWaite
Or, the modification of the links could be done on the client, using JavaScript, before being submitted to the server ?
I'm suprised there doesn't seem to be a reply to this comment, as it seems the perfect solution...
Originally posted by 1966
I'm suprised there doesn't seem to be a reply to this comment, as it seems the perfect solution...
We were discussing it behing the scenes and do not really see how it would be possible to do this easily with the vB software etc.
SpankySpanky
09-04-2004, 16:26
How about Tesco.com ? I know you already have an affiliate programme, but are groceries included in this? We as a family probably do a full weekly shop online with them about once a month (when we are too busy to actually visit our local Asda, a frankly much superior store!), and easily spend over £100 and would welcome going through the affiliate link if it gave the Forums some cash...worth a look??
SS
Originally posted by Kryten
We were discussing it behing the scenes and do not really see how it would be possible to do this easily with the vB software etc.
If would really just be a case of adding a setAffiliates() method to the onSubmit action of the Post Reply and New Thead forms. If I have time I'll build a prototype.
Originally posted by SpankySpanky
How about Tesco.com ? I know you already have an affiliate programme, but are groceries included in this? We as a family probably do a full weekly shop online with them about once a month (when we are too busy to actually visit our local Asda, a frankly much superior store!), and easily spend over £100 and would welcome going through the affiliate link if it gave the Forums some cash...worth a look??
SS
We just happen to link the the entertainment piece, from what I can tell it should work for all sections. I will get this checked out, but please try it (just go to the link and change the end to remove the entertainment piece e.g. http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/pan/TrackerServlet?p=898&a=60823&g=0&url=http://www.tesco.com/
steven_9709
09-04-2004, 16:53
What about some of the casinos?
Ladbrokes gets mentioned on here quite a bit, and there's loads of casinos offering incentives for people to sign up
edit - and how about HiFiBitz? (http://www.hifibitz.co.uk/affiliates.asp)
Originally posted by Kryten
http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997
:brickwall :brickwall :brickwall :brickwall :brickwall
Well i did look, and went though 'A' and it wasnt there, still not there. So that's why i asked? :o
Or is it somewhere else, or havent they got one?
Originally posted by Herbal
Well i did look, and went though 'A' and it wasnt there, still not there. So that's why i asked? :o
Or is it somewhere else, or havent they got one?
It's between All flowers and Bargain Crazy. :confused: ;)
Originally posted by bripmo
It's between All flowers and Bargain Crazy. :confused: ;)
Argos.co.uk (http://www.qksrv.net/click-582776-5684053)
http://www.qksrv.net/click-582776-5684053
Argos Additions (http://www.qksrv.net/click-582776-5496349)
http://www.qksrv.net/click-582776-5496349
I messed up with having All Flowers after Amazon though, will correct now...
Bump! Lots of affiliates signed up for after suggestions in this thread. Please keep refering back to this thread (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) for details of new schemes as they become approved. It is vital that people remember to use the links if the site is to continue expanding.
Originally posted by Trekker
It is vital that people remember to use the links if the site is to continue expanding.
There are STILL links being posted that are not affiliated. PLEASE give your posts a little more thought before hitting submit and use our links where possible! Thank you!
The Affiliate Links (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) thread has been updated again today. Please take a look at the new affiliates :)
abarthman
13-04-2004, 20:35
I'm sure a lot of members have the most popular suppliers (DVDSoon, amazon, CD-Wow, Boots, Argos, 7dayshop, etc) bookmarked and often shop via an unaffiliated link.
I've now amended my bookmarks, so that they are affiliated.
Would it be worthwhile emailing members to request them to amend their bookmarks to the affiliated links? :confused:
have you looked into google adsense at all? I turned it on at my website, and get between $70-$130 a day, with these kind of visitor stats:
Yesterdays ipaqsoft.net Page View Stats
7409 Unique Viewers
113614 TotalPageHits
3727 Start Page Hits
https://www.google.com/adsense/
Google AdSense is for web publishers who want to make more revenue from advertising on their site while maintaining editorial quality. AdSense delivers text-based Google AdWords ads that are relevant to what your readers see on your pages — and Google pays you.
Earn money when users click on AdWords ads displayed on your site.
Enhance user experience with relevant ads that will interest your users.
Manage your own account with easy-to-use tools to track your earnings.
Get started fast and pay nothing to participate. Once approved, serve ads in minutes.
Originally posted by abarthman
Would it be worthwhile emailing members to request them to amend their bookmarks to the affiliated links? :confused:
Have you ever seen us send out a mass mailing? It isn't something we do to be honest. I have been monitoring the site and affiliate schemes over the last couple of weeks and it is the Bargain Forum where the most traffic is and where most people are ignoring the affiliate links. I have even seen posters putting addresses in with h**p:// etc in to stop the site referals from working at all :confused: I don't think asking people to use our affiliate links and post them where applicable is asking too much is it given what we provide for free?
edit - gregh, thanks for the suggestion. I have put it up for discussion behind the scenes :thumbs:
mellowmark
13-04-2004, 22:24
You could sign up at http://buy.at/ too - this would give you one page with all the affiliate links already embedded, an example of what this would look like is at: http://buy.at/debra
It's aimed at schools, community groups, charities and sports clubs etc, but can also be used for a site like this.
If you need a personal contact at buy.at - ask for Malcolm Cowley - he's very friendly and helpful.
The adsense idea is a good one too - people tend to ignore banners these days and you could fill the same space with a 468x60 adsense text ad panel.
Originally posted by Kryten
The Affiliate Links (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) thread has been updated again today. Please take a look at the new affiliates :)
Updated again :)
I think you should also consider the Adsense idea, in the last couple of months i've started using it on my site, the traffic i get for it is still pretty small and as such, so is the banner revenue. However i do like the it gives content specific ads and it works very well on forums where the subjects discussed can vary widely and i'm sure that the DVDForums could generate some decent amounts using that system.
Perhaps this should be a "sticky"?
I have never noticed this thread before. The bargain forum moves as quick as the general or trading forums and threads get bumped into the next page.
Originally posted by Trekker
I have even seen posters putting addresses in with h**p:// etc in to stop the site referals from working at all :confused:
Isn't that because the forums got in trouble before from direct links from this site? Not to affiliates obviously
ill admit i havent gone out of my way to use affiliated links, if ive found it via a link on here ill use it, but ive just put all the links into my favourites and i will be a better bargain forumite from now on
Originally posted by Soprano
Perhaps this should be a "sticky"?
So it gets ignored as much as the other affiliate thread which has been in place for a year or so and read by a handfull of people? :lol:
Originally posted by daz_75
Isn't that because the forums got in trouble before from direct links from this site? Not to affiliates obviously
No, it certainly isn't a rule we have ever come up with. If the Bargain is legitimate and nobody is breaking any rules or laws why should there be a need to hide the referring link? :confused: If suppliers can see where the hits are coming from and realise that The DVD Forums have sent 100 customers to them (for example) they are more likely to put their hands in their pockets and sponsor the site making the future more secure.
Originally posted by Harsin
Bump
What he said :D
Come one people, please use our Affiliate Links (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) as its much needed income for the forums :)
We know for a fact that people are buying bargains from here without using our affilaite links just based on the number who say "Thanks, just purchased" and then looking at the affiliate income reports to see that only a small number of people actually used our affiliate link :|
maybe im thick but this thread has opened my eyes somewhat.
i've only ever considered using affiliate links when buying something via a bargain forum thread.
dont ask me why - just never made the connection before.
i have now updated all my bookmarks.
can i make a suggestion? in the affiliate link sticky would it not be possible to put a link next to each link that offers to bookmark the link?
if you guys are serious about people using them then changing the bookmarks of forumites is going to be the only way - apathy rules out in the big bad world - i certainly havent bought things deliberately avoiding using the links - i just haven't considered using them outside of the bargain forum.
an idea that may help??
my usual 10% should suffice.
;)
abarthman
15-04-2004, 17:24
Originally posted by Trekker
Have you ever seen us send out a mass mailing? It isn't something we do to be honest. No, but just because you haven't done it before, doesn't mean you shouldn't consider doing it now.
I occasionally receive emails from some other forums and always read them.
I don't think asking people to use our affiliate links and post them where applicable is asking too much is it given what we provide for free? I completely agree, but that's only going to catch the a fraction of sales. If people were to amend their bookmarks, you'd benefit from every single purchase made by members on the affiliated sites. :)
Thinking about the money-raising methods used by some other forums:
What about recognising forum contributors with a wee symbol next to their username to indicate that they'd contributed and maybe give them access to a restricted forum? :confused:
Forums merchandise? Mousemats, pens, etc? :confused:
Geoggy/abarthman: We would love users to update their bookmarks, I am currently investigating the ability to add a "Add to favourites" style link in the affilaite thred.
abarthman: We have done merchendising in the past, but its not really a money making scheme and has been more of a case of just covering costs (if lucky)
Originally posted by Kryten
abarthman: We have done merchendising in the past, but its not really a money making scheme and has been more of a case of just covering costs (if lucky)
Although the last 2 schemes (car stickers & t-shirts) never really made money, myself & ColinP are currently exploring another "no risk" option at the moment ;)
Originally posted by Trekker
Although the last 2 schemes (car stickers & t-shirts) never really made money, myself & ColinP are currently exploring another "no risk" option at the moment ;)
:clap:
Originally posted by Kryten
Geoggy/abarthman: We would love users to update their bookmarks, I am currently investigating the ability to add a "Add to favourites" style link in the affilaite thred.
I have found a way to do this easily :clap: I'll update the thread later
Originally posted by Trekker
Although the last 2 schemes (car stickers & t-shirts) never really made money, myself & ColinP are currently exploring another "no risk" option at the moment ;)
I personally also quite like the idea of the merchandise, i bought one of the t-shirts you did before and in the spirit of supporting the forums i'd be willing to pay a bit over the going rate for a mug or some other merchandise.
(oh yeah, if you thinking of doing mugs, i suggest larger than standard size mugs, but that's just because i like to have large quantities of beverages :p )
Originally posted by Kryten
I have found a way to do this easily :clap: I'll update the thread later
worth a stand alone thread in every forum?
maximum coverage - plus we have established that its non - bargain forum posts where people make everyday purchases that you are losing money on.
Originally posted by Geoggy
- plus we have established that its non - bargain forum posts where people make everyday purchases that you are losing money on.
No we didn't :p
Don't try and make the Bargainforumites feel better about not using the affiliate links :p I have been monitoring the affiliate hits VERY closely for the past fortnight and far too many people in THIS forum aren't using the affiliate links even when we provide them in the relevant thread! I'm sure things will get better - more so when people have updated their bookmarks (assuming they bother :searchme: )
sorry. just trying to help.
Originally posted by Geoggy
sorry. just trying to help.
I know ;)
Hence my tongue in cheek (but sadly truthful) reply :)
dont see what you have to lose with a thread entitled "please update your bookmarks and help the forums " in a couple of forums, but if you think its not worth it then its your perogative.
Originally posted by Geoggy
dont see what you have to lose with a thread entitled "please update your bookmarks and help the forums " in a couple of forums, but if you think its not worth it then its your perogative.
You're getting me wrong ;) I didn't say it was a bad idea or that we wouldn't do it. I was just making a point that the Bargain Forum is where the biggest failing is ;) In all likelihood I'll use the announcement feature to try and prompt people to update their bookmarks. Thanks for the suggestion :)
bol.com?
http://www.tradedoubler.com/pan/program_info?merchant=3586
pickabook.co.uk
http://www.awin1.com/signup.php?merchant=48
just a few suggestions as pickabook came up cheaper than amazon on a few books I was looking for and I'd rather the forums got something out of it
Opodo?
http://www.opodo.co.uk/otpbvpl/Homepage/Page/Affiliate.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@0828086343.1082064296@@@@&BV_EngineID=cccgadclemdfhjjcefecenhdhhldfnn.0&locale=en_GB&Int_Id=HO_1.0~NAV~AFF
I'm sure a huge chunk of us have booked holidays through them....I know if the forums had an affiliate link to them, they'd have had another 14 quid from just me in the last year
and I'm very surprised that there isn't WH Smiths on the list
http://www.whsmith.co.uk/WHS/Go.ASP?pagedef=/partner/migration1.htm :searchme:
I ordered a load of stuff from DVD Soon two weeks ago, the prices are still the same so i have cancelled the lot of them and re-ordered through the affiliate link.
Originally posted by Trekker
You're getting me wrong ;) I didn't say it was a bad idea or that we wouldn't do it. I was just making a point that the Bargain Forum is where the biggest failing is ;) In all likelihood I'll use the announcement feature to try and prompt people to update their bookmarks. Thanks for the suggestion :)
ok mate :thumbs:
steven_9709
15-04-2004, 21:39
How about M and M sports, and Kitbag.com
also, what about ISP/broadband providers?
Originally posted by saigon
pickabook.co.uk
snip
and I'm very surprised that there isn't WH Smiths on the list
http://www.whsmith.co.uk/WHS/Go.ASP?pagedef=/partner/migration1.htm :searchme:
Pickabook is now on the affiliate thread (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997). :)
With regards to WHSmiths we have applied to them and are waiting for confirmation.
How about banning people from posting links to offers unless the affiliate is used..
Bit extreme but desperate times and all that.... :searchme:
ban is harsh, but the blackbook could be used to that effect - is there something written into the terms and conditions as well so people agree to this? :)
Originally posted by andog
ban is harsh, but the blackbook could be used to that effect - is there something written into the terms and conditions as well so people agree to this? :)
We do this if people are posting links affiliated to other sites. Even I think its a little harsh (and that's saying something ;) ) to book people for posting a link unaffiliated and as long as someone reports it if they see a link which could be affiliated I'm sure that will do.
Originally posted by Kryten
I have found a way to do this easily :clap: I'll update the thread later
And the thread (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) has now been updated to include the abiliaty to add to bookmarks in IE (not found a way with Mozilla/Opera etc yet).
So how do I buy multiple items from dvdsoon but make sure I am using the forum link. :confused:
Originally posted by Smiler
So how do I buy multiple items from dvdsoon but make sure I am using the forum link. :confused:
As long as you enter their site through our link then all your purchases will count towards the affiliate scheme :thumbs:
Andy, was hoping thats what you'd say as when I start to search the 10040 aff-id dissappears and was worried it was'nt working.
More added to the main thread, check for updates :thumbs:
...and STILL people are posting links and not using the affiliates :brickwall
Originally posted by Trekker
...and STILL people are posting links and not using the affiliates :brickwall
I think we've been spoilt in the past by the mods doing this for us. Up until a couple of weeks ago I probably just would have posted a link without thinking about affiliating - assuming that if it needed it, a mod would be along soon to do so. And in the past I've seen many posts containing the words 'mods please affiliate' where people just haven't bothered because they know the mods will.
I think if the mods make a point of telling us off in every thread that they have to change, people will probably get the idea eventually. It'd work on me anyway - I don't like getting in trouble :p
Originally posted by target
And in the past I've seen many posts containing the words 'mods please affiliate' where people just haven't bothered because they know the mods will.
And that still goes on. What would be better is instead of posting asking us to affiliate the links, we would prefer it if people reported their own post by using the 'report this post to a moderator' link, that way the link will get done more or less straight away. Leaving it for us to do is fine but if we do not notice that a link needs affiliating for a few hours then we might have lost potential income especially if the offer is a strictly limited one.
I think if the mods make a point of telling us off in every thread that they have to change, people will probably get the idea eventually. It'd work on me anyway - I don't like getting in trouble :p
I have a better idea, how about we add people to the black book who don't affiliate their own links. Do it three times and you are banned :D
PS - Before anybody mails in I am of course joking
philipjg
16-04-2004, 21:31
Is the Blackstar link still working now that it forwards to sendit.com?
Originally posted by philipjg
Is the Blackstar link still working now that it forwards to sendit.com?
The Blackstar link has been removed now because we now have an affiliate link for Sendit.com:
http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=17328&a=60823&g=109565
Originally posted by Alan. b
The Blackstar link has been removed now because we now have an affiliate link for Sendit.com:
http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=17328&a=60823&g=109565
I think they may be talking about the drop-down lists at the top though...
Originally posted by Kryten
I think they may be talking about the drop-down lists at the top though...
Ahh right, I always forget about those drop down links.
GreyJackal
16-04-2004, 21:46
Going back to the "automagically affiliating a link" thoughts....
In version 3.0.0 you can create custom VBB tags that modify on submitting the post, ie the same principle as [ img ] and [ url ] It therefore places virtually no extra load on the server as it's not scanning every generated page for text and amending it, a la the censor filter.
For example, when posting, instead of just posting the url, you do
[ affiliatename ] http://www.affiliatesite.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00008W64B/ref=amb_center-2_75092_1/202-9608608-0589439 [ /affiliatename ]
and, in Amazon's case, VBB then ditches everything after the 2nd slash after ASIN and bungs in the affiliate bit.
(I don't know if this is possible in this version of vBB but even if it isn't, then it's worth bearing in mind if/when the upgrade happens.)
People are fundamentally lazy so if this option is available rather than having to look up the details for an affiliate and then manually modify the link I suspect a few more people would be bothered to use it (yeah, I know, I should have more faith in human nature :D)
incidently, it may be handy either setting up affiliates for some of these, or at least adding the affiliated links to the first post that are here (and i know, i'm sorry, its a long one!) eg. DVD Soon etc:
http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3779
GreyJackal
16-04-2004, 23:46
Link Affiliated - Alan
Err...it was an example - intentionally not affiliated?? :lol:
GreyJackal
17-04-2004, 00:06
Oh and Kryten :
function addBookmark(title,url)
{
if (window.sidebar)
{
window.sidebar.addPanel(title,url,"");
**
else if( document.all )
{
window.external.AddFavorite( url, title);
**
else if( window.opera && window.print)
{
return true;
**
**
Then for the link itself:
<a href="#" onmousedown="addBookmark('Affiliate's Page','http://www.affiliatesite.com/')">Add bookmark</a>
Should work in a lot more browsers :) (Netscape 6+, IE & Opera 7 certainly)
GreyJackal: Thanks, I'll have a play in a test thread behind the scenes so not to screw anything up ;)
Originally posted by Grey Jackal
Err...it was an example - intentionally not affiliated?? :lol:
Sorry, you get into a habit of affiliating links without really noticing what people are talking about :lol:
Originally posted by andog
incidently, it may be handy either setting up affiliates for some of these, or at least adding the affiliated links to the first post that are here (and i know, i'm sorry, its a long one!) eg. DVD Soon etc:
http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3779 is this not worth doing then or had you just not seen my post? :) as its a sticky in the suppliers forum, it may be worth it :)
Originally posted by andog
is this not worth doing then or had you just not seen my post? :) as its a sticky in the suppliers forum, it may be worth it :)
Yep, it is worth it. I hadn't noticed that the thread wasn't being kept up to date so we're battling it out behind the scenes to see which of the Mods is going to take it on. ( I already have 1 volunteer \o/ )
Thanks again for your suggestion :)
Originally posted by Trekker
so we're battling it out behind the scenes to see which of the Mods is going to take it on... fight to death!!!!.... oh, hang on, that wouldnt work :lol:
GreyJackal
17-04-2004, 11:22
Originally posted by Alan. b
Sorry, you get into a habit of affiliating links without really noticing what people are talking about :lol:
Thought that might have been the case :) No worries - I'll edit it back.
Having thought about it, that is actually a valid link, so I'll make it more generic just in case someone reading this thread thinks "Ooh, I meant to go to Amazon today, I'll use that link while I'm here."
Two new affiliate schemes have been added to the main affiliate link thread (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997).
More affiliated have been added to the main affiliate thread (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997)
There are still people not using them :|
Added:
Choices ERental (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=18087&a=60823&g=0)
Dress-for-Less (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=16312&a=60823&g=0)
Mailbox Movies (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=15654&a=60823&g=0)
Parcel2go (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=14672&a=60823&g=0)
Unbeatable.co.uk (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=13812&a=60823&g=0)
Even more added:
Sport-e (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=16962&a=60823&g=0)
Sporting Bet (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=14432&a=60823&g=0)
Sporting Odds (http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click?p=4386&a=60823&g=0)
abarthman
19-04-2004, 16:29
Are you starting to notice more affiliate link money coming through yet or is it too soon to say? :confused:
Originally posted by abarthman
Are you starting to notice more affiliate link money coming through yet or is it too soon to say? :confused:
Yes, we have earned an extra £1.42 today :lol:
To be honest, most people are still ignoring our request to affiliate links! A classic occured earlier. Kryten posted in a thread requesting people affiliate the links they are posting because we had been in to the thread time & time again to do it - and the very next post...a non affiliated link :brickwall:
I am resigned to the fact that people aren't going to bother and that we need to follow them around and do it for them :oh-hum:
:wave: People are still not affilating links or even worse are affilating links to other sites :|
Remember its not difficult and if you don't know how just report the post and a moderator or admin will be along to do it for you if its on our affiliate list (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) :thumbs:
Originally posted by Kryten
:wave: People are still not affilating links or even worse are affilating links to other sites :|
Remember its not difficult and if you don't know how just report the post and a moderator or admin will be along to do it for you if its on our affiliate list (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) :thumbs:
:wave: :doh: :brickwall I think that covers it - people are still not affilaiting links (although it is getting better :clap: ).
DeadKenny
10-05-2004, 12:01
Originally posted by Kryten
And the thread (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) has now been updated to include the abiliaty to add to bookmarks in IE (not found a way with Mozilla/Opera etc yet).
I haven't tried it but you can probably at the least do a bookmark file containing all the affiliates and then people can import it into their bookmarks (same applies for those using Yahoo Companion). Then it's up to them to go and reorganise the bookmarks if they wish or leave them as they are.
I think the bookmarks are just HTML format.
In fact, I'm going to put them all into my Firefox bookmarks and then export and import them into Yahoo Companion (which by the way has a version for Mozilla browsers too now, available from the Mozilla plugin site). I may post them when I'm done ;)
P.S. One big problem is the use of more and more privacy protection and ad-blocking software which blocks referrer information. Although there is information about it in the sticky thread a lot of people aren't going to be bothered or even be aware there is a "problem" with their links as the links still work but in some cases the forums don't get paid.
Trying to get people to actually click on the links when ordering is another problem. I know I'm guilty of just manually typing 'amazon.co.uk' rather than using a bookmark :doh:. I shall attempt to use the affiliate links from now on. If there's one that does a good price on a Nikon D70 that'll be a nice wedge for you (if they pay a % that is) :D
DeadKenny: You've hit the nail on the head there with the ad-blocking software etc. We have seen it so many times and then as you say people just type it in instead of clicking links :| Its a long hard battle I'm afraid :(
DeadKenny
10-05-2004, 13:10
Oh well, for what it's worth, I've done a Netscape/Mozilla/Yahoo-Companion compatible (I think) bookmark file of all the links...
here (http://www.deadkenny.co.uk/dvdforum-affiliate-bookmarks.htm)
In Netscape/Mozilla, click on the above link and you get the HTML view of the bookmarks. Then do File->Save Page As, and pick 'Web Page, HTML only' as the type, save somewhere.
To import into Netscape/Mozilla you just go to Bookmarks->Manage Bookmarks->File->Import, and load the bookmark file.
To import in Yahoo Companion, go to bookmarks.yahoo.com and use the import facility, specifying the file you downloaded.
Well, it worked for me anyway.
Ended up using IE, clicked on all the links in the sticky thread, exported the IE favourites and imported into Mozilla, then exported those and edited the HTML! :nuts:
Thanks :notworthy
I'll update the amin thread and attach that to the post to save your bandwidth :)
Esteban - CotS
10-05-2004, 15:33
That works great, I now have a whole folder in firefox dedicated to affiliated links.
Cheers DeadKenny. :D
Nice one DeadKenny :thumbs:
Please remember to keep an eye on this thread (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=175997) especially the last post when we will announce any new affiliate schemes. :)
how we doing on the affiliate side of things now then chaps?
noticable difference?
% increase?
:)
Originally posted by andog
how we doing on the affiliate side of things now then chaps?
noticable difference?
% increase?
:)
noticable difference = yes, % no idea until the end of the quarter when the reports are out.
Would be much easier and time efficient just to take a second full time job and pay the server bills though. It's a bit of a mugs game this affiliating all the links and then have people moan at you all day/night for doing so :(
Well, this is the bargain forum after all. I'd be much happier chucking a few quid directly over to pay for the servers, rather than have bargains removed because they're in competition with the forum's affiliate links.
Tonight we've had free delivery from WH Smiths pulled, a free twenty quid bet promoted in Loaded magazine removed and 28 day free trials of Screen Select DVD rental are banned as the forums' affiliate links can only give out a 14 trial.
If the bargain was of equal value to the Forum's affiliate link, it'd be fair enough. But the Screen Select thing is a bit bonkers - how much cash do the forums get for people trialing then stopping the service? Even if they got a fiver from people taking out a subscription, it'd be better value to everyone to offer the full length trial and get happy users to chuck 6 quid or whatever into a special server fund. Dwaine's appeals show that this can work.
Likewise with Loaded; the deal applies to all customers, yet the link cannot be posted here. Existing customers here in the bargain forums are missing out. The deal doesn't apply using the forums link, so there's no point in posting that link to get new customers to sign up. End result: thread closed. No-one wins, whereas if the forum link was posted (to allow new customers to sign up) along with the Loaded link (to allow existing customers, and the newly signed up customers access), we could all get our free money, and the forums would get some commission from the new sign-ups. You could even request 10% of all winning to be donated to the server fund!
Banning links to Ryanair (for free WH Smith delivery) is just harsh - I'd rather buy via Ryanair and save 3 quid P+P, then donate a couple of quid to the forums. The current setup means that we're supposed to pay the 3 quid P+P so the forums earn 20p or so.
PS Cheers Dead Kenny for doing all those bookmarks - makes shopping a lot easier!
Originally posted by bobnick
Banning links to Ryanair (for free WH Smith delivery) is just harsh - I'd rather buy via Ryanair and save 3 quid P+P, then donate a couple of quid to the forums. The current setup means that we're supposed to pay the 3 quid P+P so the forums earn 20p or so.
No it isn't harsh. If everbody used the RyanAir link whenever there was a WHSmith related bargain posted then there would be little point in having an affiliate scheme with this company. You could always have the item delivered to your local store, this way you do not pay p&p. We will do everything we can to protect our revenue income and if that means banning a few sites then that's they way it will have to be.
Originally posted by bobnick
I'd be much happier chucking a few quid directly over to pay for the servers, rather than have bargains removed because they're in competition with the forum's affiliate links.
You may be happier chucking a few quid in the kitty but 29,900 other people wouldn't. Your few quid would only go a very small way towards the thousands required to pay the annual running costs. A subscription basis would just be far too time intensive, remember no one does this full time it is all run in our spare time.
The bottom line is that this is the way that things are going to be run, if it doesn't work then bye bye Bargain Forum as far as I'm concerned. It is the single most expensive part of the site to maintain so If stamping out a few Bargains to protect the sites income really has THAT big an impact then there is no hope for the Bargain Forum really is there?
Don't even try to tell me that the BF members would "happily" donate towards keeping this area of the site running, I have seen virtual punch ups in thereads over a matter of "pennies" being saved.
But hopefully the 10% of people who are prepared to donate 3 quid will offset 300 people earning 30p a pop for the forum.
Banning the Loaded Sporting Odds link achieves nothing, as the forum now loses out the opportunity to earn some referrals, and we users don't get any free money! It just pushes users towards other forums, which is a real shame if it impacts the discussions elsewhere on the board.
Originally posted by bobnick
But hopefully the 10% of people who are prepared to donate 3 quid will offset 300 people earning 30p a pop for the forum.
Banning the Loaded Sporting Odds link achieves nothing, as the forum now loses out the opportunity to earn some referrals, and we users don't get any free money! It just pushes users towards other forums, which is a real shame if it impacts the discussions elsewhere on the board.
Your "hopefully" has the potential to xlose the site overnight! The "what if" factor could cost hundreds of pounds if we scrapped affiliate linking and put a voluntary donation system in place. We know for a FACT that people are reluctant to put their hands in their own pockets when it comes to supporting the site - we have had numerous bad experiences with people saying they will support the forums and then not doing when it comes to the crunch (car stickers, t-shirts, merchandise all got hundreds of postitive responses when bandied around for discussion then very few sales when actually put in place).
As has already been said this is the way we will continue to run the site. The format has worked for 5 years+ there is no reason it cannot carry on to work. The rule of banning links affiliated to other sites has been in existence since I opened the forum in March 2000 so it isn't a new rule and we have managed to build a member base of 30,000+ (with 10,000+ regular visitors) with it in place.
Without knowing anything about the forums finances I really don't see how you can advise on how we should run & finance the site :searchme:
This isn't open for public discussion, the forums finances never have been. This thread is about affiliating links, how to do it and why it is done.
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