Software

In this case, software does not refer to: word processors, spreadsheets, web browsers, media players, games, etc. Within the context of Affiliate and Internet Marketing, software refers to:

• AdWare - Software designed to display advertisements to users. (Compliant)
• LoyaltyWare - Software designed to reward users for transactions. (Compliant)
• Hijackware - Software designed to Force Clicks for the purpose of earning fraudulent commissions/payments. (Non-Compliant)

Software is either compliant or not. Compliant software should feature all of the following attributes:

1. Third-parties may not be incentivized to distribute the software to users.
2. The software must be available via ‘first-person’ distribution, directly from the affiliate or partner.
3. Downloading of the software will be initiated through affirmative-action by the users.
4. Installation of the software will require the consent of the users. Uninstall functionality will follow standards defined by appropriate operating systems (Windows, Mac OS, etc).
5. Any functionality that generates non user-initiated clicks (ie - the software deploys or sets technology (cookies, etc) for the purpose of tracking and generating commissions/payments) has been disclosed to all affiliated and appropriate advertisers. As well, the users must consent, or opt-in, to this functionality.
6. Complies with the “afsrc=1” standard.

Authenticity is the key

Over on Revenews, Jeff Molander has posted an article which I think anyone performing marketing on the Internet should read. The essential point is authenticity, “being real” and trust are the cornerstones to building a community around your marketing and your brand. It is a way of reaching customers who are increasingly unresponsive to tradition marketing approaches. Promotions that feel ‘forced’ just don’t cut it… anyone remember WalMart’s MySpace knock-off, “The Hub”? Fortunately, it was put-out-of-it’s-misery 10 weeks after launch… in spite of the money thrown at The Hub, no one believed it, because it wasn’t ‘real’. Authenticity is the key.