When do ad networks do auditing?

[CPMNewbie]

In my experience, FastClick and Tribal Fusion conducts their auditing on a daily basis. The other networks always have a * that says suject to auditing. Is their auditing done before they send payout or every few days? Reason being, is that I see one set a numbers one day, and another set another day, and on and one. Some of them drive me nuts. Any comments?

[Czar]

Generally speaking, manual and automated auditing processes are carried out both during the month and immediately following. Those systems with which I am most familiar run a combination of daily cron processes to crunch numbers and eliminate some errant data that may have slipped through real-time screening mechanisms and manual fraud-screening that may take place daily or at other regular intervals throughout the month.

All reputable networks carry out additional auditing and verification processes at the conclusion of the payment period but those that employ reliable systems throughout the month should not have reason to alter numbers dramatically, except in extreme cases.

Consider real-time reporting more of a guide than a guarantee. Rather than letting data movements frustrate you, wait for a couple of days before considering numbers more-or-less final.

HTH

[Steve_S]

Great answer Czar.

Let me also add that you are effectively asking for details of a "trade secret" since the precise disclosure of exactly when a given Network audits will infact raise the incidence of cheating and I won't go into additional details for obvious reasons.

HTH

[CPMNewbie]

Interesting observation. Thanks for the info.