I blogged a few months ago about a website I had called Problem Exchange that was built with worthy intentions and was doing kind of okay traffic wise, but just seemed impossible to monetise. I tried AdSense, Amazon links and affiliate network links but nothing was working.

The site had been using a three column design, with most of my advertising attempts placed in a 120 pixel width column on the right-hand side.

I recently changed the layout to a two column design with a large right-hand column. I've brought the AdSense unit into the main content area and placed it alongside an entry form. Rather than the 120x600 unit I was using, I've go a 300x250 banner. Since making that change, the website has provided a regular stream of AdSense clicks and has become one of my most reliable and consistent earners.

You can see from the picture below where I've placed the AdSense unit. Please excuse the Valentine's Day decorations-my users a demanding bunch and always liked their seasonal decorations on the site.



One of the exciting things about this kind of affiliate marketing in general is in seeing how minor tweaks to the layout and presentation of information can have a direct effect on human behaviour.

Labels: adsense, google