"Community" is the number one buzz word on the Internet. Any time a message is addressed to a group of people, the group is called a "community." Since cooperative programs, by their nature, are built to attract many people, of course, they're called "communities."
But the vast majority of them are NOT!
Let's take a look at the major types of programs:
- EXCHANGE - Under control of one website, there is an
exchange of banner ads or something else. Link
Exchange is an
example. The Web Ring, where the visitor may jump to
the next site in the ring, is another.
- AFFILIATE - A company initiates an affiliate program
and controls it. Affiliates may promote or sell the product
or service. Amazon.com sells
books this way.
- NETWORK - It takes on many form. But essentially it
acts as a broker between those who want to set up
exchange or affiliate programs and those interested in
joining. Just Click is one such
outfit.
To find out more about cooperative programs available today, visit:
If you are interested in starting your own cooperative program, find out about necessary software:
Most people who write about cooperative programs say that before you join you should investigate thoroughly:
- Responsibilities of affiliates
- Responsibilities of Initiating company
- Monetary arrangements
Definitely! But this is not enough. I believe you should seek community, for which there are only two requirements:
- Each member has a VOICE - if you have, your needs will
be satisfied
- Each member is INVOLVED - if you are, you can change
things that are not working
Mostly, though, in a community all members work together so all succeed.
Don't join a cooperative program until you know it's honestly run, meets your strategic needs and is a COMMUNITY.
