Are Ad Networks going to kill the Affiliate Model?

[GonZo]

Originally Posted by Wizzo

I've run affiliate programs for many years and seems lately more and more I'm seeing both programs and affiliates shift to using Ad networks rather then working direct with each other.

I've talked to some of the bigger affiliates I know and done business with for many years and they tell me they prefer to sell ads to the ad networks rather then working with sponsors direct because they don't have the burden or worry of conversions, sites operating properly, program owners skipping out, shaving, etc.

So what is your thoughts on this?

From where I sit ad traffic has always been bought in addition to a large affiliate base.

[Wizzo]

Originally Posted by GonZo

From where I sit ad traffic has always been bought in addition to a large affiliate base.

I agree the two have always been part of a good strategy, just seems like many are shifting towards towards paid ads and away from the affiliate market.

There's 3 programs I know of, and sure there is others, that recently no longer accept new affiliates and are solely focused on buying ad traffic now. So maybe its just the circles I happen to be in, but I think the shift is coming.