Where do you see affiliate marketing heading?

[Toby]

The large multi-site programs are investing more in other sources of traffic while devoting less manpower and resources to their affiliate marketing.

The small one and two site independent programs are pretty much the same as they've always been. Some of the older sites are fading away as the owners get tired of putting in the work now that the money isn't rolling in so easy.

Overall, the affiliate model is changing as technology makes different content delivery options available. Those that just keep pushing the same old stuff without constantly seeking out new sponsors, weeding out the dead ones or trying new ways to monetize their traffic will likely find it difficult to maintain their income levels.

[SykkBoy]

Originally Posted by Toby

The large multi-site programs are investing more in other sources of traffic while devoting less manpower and resources to their affiliate marketing.

The small one and two site independent programs are pretty much the same as they've always been. Some of the older sites are fading away as the owners get tired of putting in the work now that the money isn't rolling in so easy.

Overall, the affiliate model is changing as technology makes different content delivery options available. Those that just keep pushing the same old stuff without constantly seeking out new sponsors, weeding out the dead ones or trying new ways to monetize their traffic will likely find it difficult to maintain their income levels.

Great post and yes affiliates themselves get into these creative ruts as well. They keep hammering on the old ways and not changing to meet the new technology. They get reliant on the affiliate program doing the legwork and work themselves into becoming obsolete.

It's why I've pretty much moved away from adult itself and embraced some other niches and products. Adult used to lead the way and now they've become much more passive.

I think great times are ahead for affiliates who refuse to just be another number in the affiliate database and contact their sponsors, working with them one on one and focusing on building relationships that go beyond sponsor-affiliate.

[housekeeper]

Originally Posted by Toby

Overall, the affiliate model is changing as technology makes different content delivery options available.

Social media has also put a large dent in the affiliate marketing model, in addition to mobile devices. Anyone can follow their favorite porn stars through twitter or facebook and by-pass all the desk-top surfing which lead them to our promotions.

To my view there are less affiliates than there used to be, and less of a creative effort towards genuine promotion and marketing.