Hi John,

> One of the biggest ways the info-product
> producers seem to be able to leverage
> themselves is through an affiliate program.
> For instance, Jim Straw has offered an
> affiliate program whereby you can simply
> post a link to Jim's site with an id tag,
> and any sales generated from that link will
> earn you a commission. (I think you are
> already one of Jim's affiliates...)

Yes! It's true.... Many big online successes seem to use affiliate programs....

I see affiliate programs as an online version of a commissioned sales force.... Having more people out there selling your stuff on commission can certainly help with sales and profits (and is a great form of leverage).

> The application of the lever is certainly
> something to consider. The same amount of
> "work" applied to a project using
> a "lever" can produce a much
> larger result than a singular effort applied
> to the project alone.

Yes! I agree with you here! :)

This whole discussion has certainly gotten me thinking about using leverage in a greater basis in my own activities.... At the moment, I only use a little bit of leverage, but I need to think and work at it more.... These discussions have certainly helped me realize that it is almost impossible to earn an highly above-average income without using leverage!

> There are several software programs
> available for adding an affiliate program to
> a project...can you or anyone else recommend
> the "best" one?

You can "do it yourself" with your own software, which may be the best option if you can accept credit cards already. I must admit I haven't looked at the software to do this myself, though, yet.... (Any good suggestions?)

However, there are also programs where you can "outsource" your affiliate program. The company will handle everything, all you do is promote, pay your fees, and deposit your checks.... :)

One option is Clickbank -- www.clickbank.com . I've used Clickbank to take orders before, and I've had no trouble. They've been around for a while now.... However, you have to pay a joining fee to use them, but apart from that you pay them a percentage (rather than a flat fee).

Another option is the Affiliate Tracking Network -- www.affiliatetracking.com . They charge flat rates I believe. Another advantage here is that you can change the percentage you pay each individual affiliate, which permits some negotiation and flexibility.... I believe this is what Yanik Silver uses for his affiliate program.... It's a good idea to compare the two options (at least)....

What other software or companies providing affiliate tracking services can you use? (The floor is open to suggestions! :) )

> P.S. I'm glad your mother is better. I will
> keep her in my prayers.

Thanks John, it means much to me.... :)

- Dien