Brand Bidding / Agencies / Networks: The Inconvienient Truth?

This weekend was a an interesting one. I relatively quick post about brand name bidding on Saturday morning whilst I was waiting for the missus to rouse did the same for another affiliate.

The issue that is being contended is different from my initial post. Keiron's view is that he is "sick of people saying the affiliate marketing industry is corrupt". I'm more concerned with the issue of whether the industry actually is corrupt. A significant difference.

I think for the industry to progress you have to have these debates, you have to listen to all sides and you can't simply brush the issue under the carpet because it doesn't suit you.

My question is: "What do you, or the industry have to gain from preserving the status-quo?" The status quo is that there is perception amongst some that some affiliates are unfairly prioritised due to a degree of mutual "back scratching".

My view is, Keiron, that if you're so convinced that nothing of the sort is occurring in our industry then you would welcome the opportunity to dispel the rumours. Simply telling someone to "shut up" because they have views contrary to yours simply doesn't support your position or progress the understanding of how the industry works.

I was disappointed by your comments, and frankly expected more. But it's your prerogative.

The issue is that if people see secrecy in certain aspects of how a network works, then it is obvious that affiliates will ask "what have they got to hide"?

When brand name bidding was allowed on a number of campaigns, I was doing it. I was doing shit loads. Then I was told to stop, whilst others could continue. How was I not selected over others? How were they chosen over me? What's the process? It's this lack of clarity that is fanning the flames of the view that the is some affiliate Illuminati where there is perception of collusion and underhand practices.

Keiron, I hope you read that last paragraph clearly. I am not saying the perception is in actual fact a reality, I am merely saying that there is a perception which the networks, through their secrecy, have unintentionally fostered.

So I leave it up to everyone to make their own mind up. But I wonder, if any network would be willing to open up to third-party, independent investigation to allay the fears of many affiliates and prove to industry commentators and merchants that there is no corruption? I doubt it.

Updates: Network Feedback 22/10/07

I would like to thank Kevin Edwards from Affiliate Window for sticking his head above the parrapit and making his views known. They're very much appreciated and I hope other networks will make comment on the percieved problem. I'm not asking for official statements, just some reassurance.

I would also like to thank Hero for her comments. I trust her implicitly and do support her views which are in-turn simmilar to mine in that (correct me if I've missunderstood) networks naturally gravitate to affiliates with good marks for past performance and sticking within the rules. Keiron did note that new affiliates can get into those closed groups on occassion.

I'd also like to thank Jamie, who was at the forefront of my initial frustration, for his views. It's very important that we hear the opinions of someone that is often seen as the one within the walled-garden.

We've also heard from Matt Bailey at dgm who have also given their stance on closed groups and how people are selected.

Network Feedback 23/10/07

Pete from Affiliate Future has given his views and match closely my own. I recommend you give them a read!!!

Greavsie from Link Share not only pointed out that I'd for got them off the list but has added their views. It's great to see some of the networks standing up and saying their piece!

Me ole' mucker Tyson has responded with his views on behalf of Buy.at. They also should be read and noted.

I think we're getting to a place where I wanted: The suspicion of corruption either being proved or dispelled. So far we've had word from:

• Affiliate Window
• Webgains
• dgm
• buy.at

But are still awaiting from (sorry - or maybe not, if I've missed you out):

• Tradedoubler
• CJ
• Affiliate Future
• Paid on Results

I'm sure your affiliates would like some reassurance that the process of choosing affiliates is based on past-performance or true goodwill and not for any nefarious reason.

But I am glad we're making headway.