Automated LinkGenerator and the Merchandiser Query Tool are two new Web Services LinkShare offers to Publishers. In order for Publishers to use these services with your links, we ask that you offer certain tools. For Automated LinkGenerator, you need to enable LinkBuilder, and for the Merchandiser Query Tool, a Merchandiser product feed.
Merchandiser
Merchandiser is a product feed that facilitates the distribution and updating of product links to your Publishers. Publishers typically access Merchandiser via FTP, and then build web applications using the product links in the file. Merchandiser allows affiliates to integrate links to your products directly on their website without having to manually create links to each product that you offer.
The Merchandiser Query Tool is a Web Service that allows Publishers to query your Merchandiser file using descriptive keywords. In order for a Publisher to use the Merchandiser Query Tool with your links, you must offer the Merchandiser file.
LinkBuilder
If you are enabled for LinkBuilder, Publishers will have the option to create an publisher link to any page on your site. LinkBuilder is a popular tool for Publishers since it makes it easy for them to target the right page on your site for their content and customers.
Linkbuilder enablement is also needed for Publisher to utilize the Automated LinkGenerator Web Service for your links. Automated LinkGenerator is a Web Service that allows Publishers to create LinkShare affiliate links for any page on an advertiser’s site without logging in to the LinkShare interface. This is accomplished using a web service call within the browser.
With Automated LinkGenerator, Publishers can create links on the fly without having to log in to the LinkShare interface. Examples of Publishers that use Automated LinkGenerator are ToldYa and StyleFeeder. These Publishers develop product widgets and use Automated LinkGenerator to create affiliate links to product pages.
In order to enable LinkBuilder, your site must be configured in a way which allows a LinkShare publisher ID to be captured from any page on your site. Different Advertisers are configured in different ways, so you’ll need to speak with a LinkShare Technical Representative on your setup with LinkShare.
About Web Services
Web services applications are accessible using SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) and REST. Web Services use HTTP with XML for communication. These are ubiquitous technologies and any device capable of using these technologies is able to both host and consume Web services. Web services concepts are simple to understand and with the addition of various tool-kits provide a low barrier to entry and easy software development.
If you’re interested in Merchandiser or LinkBuilder, contact your LinkShare Representative today! These are great Merchandiser tools to help your Publishers drive sales and target their traffic.
|
