Considering a move from an affiliate network to a Partnership Management Platform? Here’s what you need to know

Switching from a conventional affiliate network to a partnership platform can feel like a big step. But with the right approach, it’s a shift that unlocks new, strategic opportunities for growth and real relationship-building. Owen Hancock, RVP of Marketing at impact.com, explains why brands shouldn’t let fear hold them back from making the move, and how to navigate the transition smoothly.

Fear of Changing Providers? Here’s the Real Picture

After years of working within affiliate networks, affiliate managers know the value they bring—immediate conversions, measurable returns, and control over spend. So, it’s natural to feel cautious about stepping into something new. What happens to those steady campaigns and familiar processes?

It’s essential to reframe that fear: rather than focusing on what you might lose, consider what a partnership platform offers beyond your current results. Partnership platforms like impact.com are built for today’s relationship-driven economy, focusing on long-term connections that help brands engage authentically with customers. Yes, there’s some adjustment involved, but the potential rewards are well worth it.

Securing Internal Buy-In

Change works best with company-wide support. To make a strong case internally, focus on how partnership management platforms go beyond sales to help brands build credibility and reach broader audiences in a way the affiliate networks just cannot do.

1. Highlight the Long-term Value: Show how partnerships help future-proof revenue and reduce reliance on single, transactional channels.
2. Explain the Cost Benefits: Partnership management platforms offer precise tracking and tailored commissioning, leading to cost efficiency over time.
3. Share Success Stories: Use examples of brands that have successfully transitioned and achieved strong ROI through partnerships.

Addressing the Unknowns of SaaS

Switching from a familiar network to a SaaS partnership platform can feel intimidating. But top platforms have streamlined onboarding and integration to keep things as smooth as possible. impact.com, for example, walks brands through a three-step setup: account configuration, technical integration, and partner migration—all handled by dedicated support teams who’ll guide you each step of the way.

If technical concerns come up, most SaaS platforms offer dedicated training, robust onboarding, and around-the-clock support to make sure you’re covered.

Best Practices for Migration

For a smooth migration, follow these key steps:

1. Conduct an Affiliate Audit: Map out your key partners, top affiliates, and standout performers to prioritise relationships that need close management.
2. Phase Your Migration: Avoid disruption by transitioning partners in phases, starting with top contributors.
3. Keep Communication Open: Keep partners informed at every stage, emphasising the benefits of the new platform.
4. Leverage Onboarding Support: Platforms like impact.com provide dedicated support specialists to simplify the migration process—use this help to streamline each step.

Case Study: A Brand’s Journey to Partnership Success

One major retail brand recently made the switch from a traditional affiliate network to impact.com’s partnership platform. They started with a phased migration over eight weeks, keeping partners informed and demonstrating the platform’s advantages: enhanced tracking, dynamic commissioning, and better performance insights. The result? A 30% jump in revenue within the first quarter and increased partner engagement through a diversified partner mix. 

This isn’t a one-off though. impact.com has been recognised with awards four times in four years with clients including Skyscanner, John Lewis, Orange Theory and TUI. 

Four Best Launch Wins with a Partnership Platform

1. Diversify Partner Types: Go beyond affiliates—tap into influencers, publishers, and other businesses to expand reach.
2. Customise Commissioning: Tailor commissions based on each partner’s role in the conversion journey.
3. Boost Tracking and Reporting: Real-time, in-depth tracking helps refine and optimise strategies.
4. Automate Compliance and Payments: Automated tools free up time and improve accuracy, strengthening partner relationships.

Serving Notice Without the Hassle

Serving notice on your current provider might seem like a pain, but think of it as an opportunity to reinforce where you’re heading. Most affiliate network agreements have straightforward notice periods. Approach it with clear communication—let your network know the benefits of the new platform you’re moving to and the direction you want your brand’s partnerships to go.

Giving fair notice also lets you start conversations with key partners, building excitement for what’s next. Transparency goes a long way in securing trust as you transition.

Navigating Exclusivity Periods

Exclusivity clauses in existing contracts are worth double-checking, as they may need flexibility during the migration period. Examine these clauses with your legal team to clarify your options. If exclusivity is a roadblock, discuss options with your provider. Some brands take a phased approach, working with both platforms temporarily to avoid contract issues and ensure a seamless experience for partners.

Change is Worth the Effort

Moving from affiliate networks to a partnership platform may seem like a lot of work upfront. But this effort unlocks a future-proof marketing model that builds real, authentic connections and drives sustainable growth.

The industry is moving in one clear direction: towards partnerships that prioritise relationship-building and customer trust. Embrace this shift, and your brand won’t just keep pace—it’ll thrive.