The process of moving an affiliate publisher between program tiers (Tier 1/2/3) based on GMV performance change. Upward migration (Tier 3 → Tier 2 → Tier 1): triggered when a publisher consistently exceeds the GMV threshold for a higher tier over 2-3 consecutive months; benefits unlocked at higher tiers include: higher commission rate, dedicated affiliate manager contact, product seeding, early launch access, and community channel access. Downward migration: triggered when a previously Tier 1 or Tier 2 publisher falls below their tier's GMV threshold for 3+ consecutive months; handled by reducing investment (fewer content briefs, reduced seeding budget) rather than termination; a publisher who drops performance temporarily is more recoverable than recruiting a new publisher to the same GMV level. Communication: notify publishers of tier changes proactively — surprise tier downgrades without explanation damage relationships; frame downward migration as an invitation to re-engage.
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