Brands select either an affiliate network or a SaaS platform as their technology partner, not both. For greater insight into networks and SaaS platforms and the types of companies that fall under each type, download our free Quick Guide to Affiliate Networks and SaaS Platforms. Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations, and strategy of a program on behalf of brands, including partner relationships, partner recruiting, activation and optimization. They work directly with affiliates and with the affiliate network or SaaS platform that services the technological needs of the program. The audience that affiliates look to influence to make a purchase, submit a lead form, sign up for a newsletter, test out a service, become a new customer, etc.
A good example of this is selling domain names or website hosting services. Companies like Blue Host or GoDaddy will offer direct partnerships to their associates in order to sell more of their products.

It's amazing how much more attention and effort you'll put into something when you're investing your own time, energy and (here's a big one) money.
This will give you some great notions to take into account for your own amazing creation.