Using CJ's EPC Reports
Jun 14, 2004

If you know how to read the graphs and analyze the data, EPC reports can be a very useful tool to help affiliates see who the top paying merchants are in the Commission Junction network and decide which affiliate programs to sign up for. Learn more about what EPC is, how it is calculated and how using EPC reports can make you more money.

What is EPC?
The EPC (Average Earnings per One Hundred Clicks) is a relative rating that illustrates the ability to convert clicks into commissions. These ratings put all merchants on the same 'playing field' so it is easier for affiliates to compare and choose the most profitable merchants to work with. EPC reports basically shows affiliates where they can make the most money from their traffic by showing which merchants have paid out the most money per click during the given period. There are two time periods that CJ calculates EPC for: 3-month EPC and 7-day EPC.

What is the 3-month EPC?
3-month EPC values are calculated and updated daily, using data beginning five months previous through three months previous. On the first of each month the "five months previous through three months previous" timeframe changes to accommodate the month change.

For example, an EPC rating in July is calculated using data from February, March, and April. It is necessary to use data beginning five months previous to give accurate EPC ratings that may include extended or reversed transactions. (If a merchant has not received 1000 clicks during that time period a N/A will display for the EPC.)

How is 3-month EPC Calculated?
The EPC is calculated by taking each affiliate's total commissions earned and then that number is divided by the number of clicks received for 3 months and then times by 100.

How is the 7-day EPC Calculated?
7-day EPC is calculated by taking the sum of all commissions earned for 7 days and then they divide by the sum of all clicks for the same 7 days and multiply this by 100. There must be at least 100 clicks for the 7-day period to calculate a merchant's EPC. (If less than 100 clicks occurred, N/A will display for the EPC.)

By comparing EPC values, affiliates can easily detect high performing programs and optimize their links to direct traffic to those top-paying and converting merchants. If you are not yet using CJ (Commission Junction) to sign up for affiliate programs you are missing out on valuable tools like their EPC report. View the link below to learn more about CJ's affiliate network.

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