Google has done it again. Google Analytics is a fantastic (and free) tracking tool that tells you everything you want to know about your Web site traffic. I immediately signed up installed it on my pages, and I am thrilled with the amount of data this program provides. This is really going to give the other tracking programs a run for their money.
Analytics is very simple to use and only requires the addition of a small snippet of code to your pages. The program uses a Web-based interface, so you can check your stats from anywhere, at any time. You may also add users to your account to share this data with other members of your team.
While this free version is limited to five million pageviews per month, there is no limit for active AdWords publishers. If you have an AdWords account, Google Analytics automatically provides detailed tracking for your campaigns
Their tagline says, “Google Analytics shows you which keywords perform and which ones you should cut.” Perfect!
I've tried several methods to monetize my sites over the years, with varying degrees of success. Curently, I focus most of my efforts on specific affiliate programs and Google Adsense.
Google Adsense
Currently, Google Adsense performs very well. Adsense provides a consistent income every month. They also provide wonderful tracking tools, and excellent customization options. I have been with Google since the beginning, and I am impressed with their program. I am a loyal fan and highly recommend them (with or without the new referral program).
Affilite Marketing
Affiliate programs are a fantastic method for publishers to monetize their Web sites. With affiliate programs the publishers have control over who they promote, and how. The important thing to remember is that thoughtful planning in necessary for success. It is essential to use care when selecting relevant merchants to partner with. It is also important to remember your visitors needs when deciding what type of links to use, and where. For affiliate links to be effective, they must provide a value to the visitor, because in most cases, the publisher is paid a commission based on sales.
Yahoo! Publisher Network
This is a beta program that is offering contextual text advertising, similar to the Google Adsense program. I am testing this on a few of my pages. Unfortunately, this program is not compatible with Google, so it would take a lot for me to consider switching.
AdBrite
I am about to begin testing this program on some of my pages. A lot of big sites are having success with this. It is a simple method to automate individual ad sales. A vistor may click on a link and easily purchase ad space on specific sites.
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