educational

Tracking Methods and Benefits: Part 2

In part 1, Beth began discussing the many different methods of tracking available and their varied uses as well. In this series conclusion, she’ll talk about several more advanced tracking methods, and various ways that tracking can benefit your business…

Self Replicated Pages
Another method of tracking is Self Replicated Pages. Self Replicated Pages offer affiliates a template for creating their own web pages which will then be found in their own directory at the merchant’s website. This method has proven itself to be very reliable and effective. It is often used in combination with cookie tracking where the Self Replicated Pages provide the affiliate with a URL to which he can direct his customers, and the cookie tracking then takes over. The major drawback with Self Replicated Pages is that they require careful planning, the necessity of template pages, and constant continued upkeep. Removing the affiliate directory from the URL and re-entering the site can also circumvent this method.

Sub Domain Tracking
Sub Domain Tracking has some common elements with Self Replicated Pages such that it also provides the affiliate with a full URL to direct their customers to. However with Sub Domain Tracking the affiliate receives an actual sub domain at the merchant’s site, instead of just a directory path. This method requires the most hands-on attention from the program administrator. When considering this option, affiliate managers must plan for the integration of their ordering system with the sub domain option. Cookie tracking should always be used as a backup for the sub domain method of tracking.

Database Record Matching
Database Record Matching is the final method of tracking that we will discuss here. It is also referred to as “lifetime affiliate tracking”. Database Record Matching is the least used method of tracking because it is difficult to operate and maintain and requires the use of at least one other method of tracking. Database Record Matching cannot be used alone since it only tracks returning customers and not new customers. The tracking of the initial sale must be done by another tracking method, and then unique contact information about the customer is stored along with the referring affiliate’s ID. Anytime that customer makes another purchase the database can then be searched to find whether or not that customer belongs to an affiliate. This method allows for commissions to be paid to affiliates for the life of the system.

As I stated earlier in addition to the various methods of tracking available there are also many different uses for the tracking. Some of the most popular uses for tracking are in advertising, email campaigns, and to operate an affiliate program.

Businesses who track their advertising are able to tell how well a particular ad was received which can help them to maximize their profits. By looking at the ad tracking results they can tell whether an ad campaign failed to bring the expected results in all mediums, in which case the entire ad needs to be changed or if the problem was only in a particular medium thus allowing them to put more money in those mediums where the ad performed well. In today’s market where advertising budgets are shrinking by the minute, knowing where to spend your advertising dollars is of key importance.

Businesses who use Opt-In email marketing can track the results of their various campaigns so they can tell how many clicks the campaign generated and to get a pretty good idea of how many people ordered as well.

Without a doubt the biggest use for tracking is to run and manage affiliate programs. Affiliate programs are beneficial to businesses because they allow businesses to advertise without any risk. With traditional advertising methods you pay for the ad spot regardless of how well your ad performs, but with an affiliate program you only pay for those ads that were productive and profitable in some way for you.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

profile

WIA Profile: Lexi Morin

Lexi Morin’s journey into the adult industry began with a Craigslist ad and a leap of faith. In 2011, fresh-faced and ambitious, she was scrolling through job ads on Craigslist when she stumbled upon a listing for an assistant makeup artist.

Women In Adult ·
profile

Still Rocking: The Hun Celebrates 30 Years in the Game

In the ever-changing landscape of adult entertainment, The Hun’s Yellow Pages stands out for its endurance. As one of the internet’s original fixtures, literally nearly as old as the web itself, The Hun has functioned as a living archive for online adult content, quietly maintaining its relevance with an interface that feels more nostalgic than flashy.

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

Digital Desires: AI's Emerging Role in Adult Entertainment

The adult industry has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to embracing new technology. From the early days of dial-up internet and grainy video clips to today’s polished social media platforms and streaming services, our industry has never been afraid to innovate. But now, artificial intelligence (AI) is shaking things up in ways that are exciting but also daunting.

Steve Lightspeed ·
opinion

More Than Money: Why Donating Time Matters for Nonprofits

The adult industry faces constant legal battles, societal stigma and workplace challenges. Fortunately, a number of nonprofit organizations work tirelessly to protect the rights and well-being of adult performers, producers and industry workers. When folks in the industry think about supporting these groups, donating money is naturally the first solution that comes to mind.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
opinion

Consent Guardrails: How to Protect Your Content Platform

The adult industry takes a strong and definite stance against the creation or publication of nonconsensual materials. Adult industry creators, producers, processors, banks and hosts all share a vested interest in ensuring that the recording and publication of sexually explicit content is supported by informed consent.

Lawrence G. Walters ·
opinion

Payment Systems: Facilitator vs. Gateway Explained

Understanding and selecting the right payment platform can be confusing for anyone. Recently, Segpay launched its payment gateway. Since then, we’ve received numerous questions about the difference between a payment facilitator and a payment gateway. Most merchants want to know which type of platform best meets their business needs.

Cathy Beardsley ·
opinion

Reinventing Intimacy: A Look at AI's Implications for Adult Platforms

The adult industry has long revolved around delivering pleasure and entertainment, but now it’s moving into new territory: intimacy, connection and emotional fulfillment. And AI companions are at the forefront of that shift.

Daniel Keating ·
profile

WIA: Sara Edwards on Evolving Clip Culture and Creator Empowerment

Though she works behind the scenes, Sara Edwards has had a front-row seat to the evolution of adult content creation. Having been immersed in the sector since 1995, she has a unique perspective on the industry.

Jackie Backman ·
profile

Segpay Marks 20 Years of High-Risk Triumphs

Payment processors are behind-the-scenes players in the world of ecommerce, yet their role is critical. Ensuring secure, seamless transactions while navigating a rapidly changing regulatory landscape requires both technological expertise and business acumen.

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

The SCREEN Test: How to Prepare for Federal Age Verification

For those who are counting, there are now 20 enacted state laws in the United States requiring age verification for viewing online adult content, plus numerous proposed laws in the works. This ongoing barrage has been exhausting for many in the adult industry — and it may be about to escalate in the form of a potential new AV law, this time at the federal level.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
Show More