Those actually selling goods (virtual or otherwise) on the Internet are finding that launching an affiliate program is an inexpensive, effective way of generating sales and acquiring more Web traffic. While there are hundreds of affiliate networks that merchants and vendors can employ to recruit affiliates willing to sell or resell product, the other option is to go it alone, creating and managing an affiliate or partner program without the assistance, guidance and support of these networks. The downside to using an affiliate network is that it can be expensive to get started and you may just end up paying a share to the network. If the cost is too prohibitive, there are several affiliate program software solutions worth looking into.

Post Affiliate Pro is one such offering. For $149 (actually the cost is $99 for a limited time), you'll receive a fully customizable affiliate software solution that will help to get an affiliate program up and running in minutes. The software is compatible with nearly all merchant accounts payment gateways, shopping cars and membership systems and the feature list is enough to convince even the most critical merchants. Some of what stood out the most for me were the ability to support unlimited affiliates, ability to offer multiple commission types, refund and chargeback management, a rich communication platform and quite extensive flash reporting.

I'm interested in learning whether the merchant-readers of this blog utilize affiliate programs and what software (proprietary or otherwise) is being used. Login or register now and share your comment!

Related reading on affiliate programs from Website Magazine:

• Do It Yourself - Start an Affiliate Program
• Directory of Affiliate Program Directories