What makes a good affiliate program?

[guessthe]

What do you guys look for in a good affiliate program? Obviously timely competitive payouts are a givin.

But what else do you look for, I would like to hear your thoughts.

What do I look for:

* Clear/understandable reporting interface
* Either access to a rep by phone or chat. (Email is a givin)
* Incentive programs
* $$$

[Andy]

I think most webmasters are tired of the low payout of affiliate programs. Also, the major benefit is free advertizing to the affilliate marketing company. And, these companies keep changing the linking code, banners and rules.

I much prefer Google adwords these days since these hassles are removed.

Your own product is the best idea at the end of the day.