Pay per install is another way to make money online. It’s easy but restricted to software developers only. Basically, Pay per install sites pay whenever someone download and install a software created by you (the developer), along with the software of advertiser during installation process.
So, how does it work actually ?
Let’s say you have created a Video player and you’re giving it for free under open source license. But, you need money to support further development. Putting a donation link is a good idea, but not many people actually donate to support developers. So, now you’ve only one option left, i.e. Pay per download sites.
Pay per download sites offers a platform where developers can upload there software and can get a installer of their software, like the install shield wizard. This installer consist of two thing, Video player of the developer and a software from advertiser. The user can decide whether or not to download the advertised software. And, you only get paid for successful installation of advertiser’s software.
Some networks don’t follow this kind of setup and when user installs your video player, advertiser’s software get installed automatically, which means more conversion. But, I personally don’t like this kind of networks mainly because of two reasons, the pay per install rates are pretty low as compared to other networks who ask users permission for installation. The second reason is, it could be a malware, I’m promoting along with my software, which could ruin my software reputation.
How to promote Software Installer?
Now, this is where we have to apply our marketing mind. You have the installer in hand and now next step is promotion. There are quite a few ways to do it like, if you’re a blogger then you can always mail about your new software to your mailing list or the best thing is to create a post about it. But, this may take forever to make any decent money, especially if your blog have small audience base. SO, if you want to make serious cash then follow the steps mentioned below:
1. Landing Page
Before, you even start with your promotion. I suggest, take a day off and create a nice looking landing page for your software. If you’re not good with graphics and html then you can always use website builder. But, hiring a professional is good. Because you’ll get custom landing page and not that ready made old templates. It only cost around $100 to get a professional landing page.
The more beautiful your landing page is, the more conversions you’ll get. So, always try to get a unique landing page for your software. However, if you don’t have a nice budget then go to fiverrfor it.
2. YouTube
Now, this is where promotion begins. YouTube is a good source for targeted traffic. Create videos of your software and upload it to YouTube. It can be either you explaining how your software works or how it is better then other similar softwares. You can also hire somebody to create a professional video promoting your software, I recommend hiring people over fiverr, it cheap and risk free. You can also use services like animoto to create your videos.
In the description field of YouTube, put your landing page URL at the top and write a short description of your software into it. Also, put your software download URL into the field right below the landing page URL. The reason I ask you to put URL’s at the top is visiblity. It will be visible, even if the description tab is closed.
For example: “Your Software name” – http://mylandingpage.com
Direct Download – http://yourdirectdonwloadlink.com
Direct Download – http://yourdirectdonwloadlink.com
and little description about your software.
Not just YouTube, you can use other video sharing site also, to maximize the traffic. There are lots of them that you can use like: Vimeo, DailyMotion, MetaCafe, hulu etc.
3. Use Forums and Social media groups
There are thousands of forums and social groups across the web. Niche related forums are great and targeted source of traffic. Create a nice thread about your software on niche related forums and see the download chart grow. Social groups on the other hand can be effective too. For an instance, facebook groups can get you hundred of downloads.
4. Upload your software on Cnet
Cnet is a one of the trusted Software download site with large audience base. It may not get you thousands of download from day one but, it will eventually grow. Use similar site for more exposure.
5. SEO
Optimize your landing page for search engine and build backlinks. Rank your site for keywords related to your software. This process is slow and time consuming but it can make get you thousands of downloads in one day. You’re probably thinking How? Well, try to rank 25+ low competitive keywords each month and after few months you’ll have more than enough keywords ranked to pull decent traffic of search engines.
Pay Per Install Networks
There are number of pay per install networks, but choosing the best of all is hard. So, always try a test run with each network to see which one is giving more money per install. Also, cross check on google to see whether the network actually pays or its just another scam network. Below are some decent networks that pays:
- Amonetize
- revenyou.com
- perinstallcash.com Click My Fav Network
- BetterInstaller
- Oneinstaller
Things to Remember
If you’re serious about your softwares and wants good credibility as software developer then there are few things you need to remember:
- Always update your software.
- Do not leave any bug, it can be your software downfall. Especially, if you’re promoting it on social media.
- Create social media account and talk to your users and ask for feedback.
- Install a feedback and rating system on your website.
Conclusion
Money is one of the biggest issue for software developers. Especially when they develop new softwares and offer it for free. This can be overcome by placing a donation link, but developers do not get enough donations because of the number of other free softwares available in the market. This is where Pay Per Install websites comes in. You can make thousands of dollars from your open source softwares, all you need to do is sign up with a decent PPI network and promote your software. It’s simple and makes enough money to start your next project. Try it out and say thanks to me after you make any money with PPI. Good luck!
Make Money with Pay Per Install